Benefits Specialist Job in Seattle, WA

Benefits Specialist

We are looking for a Benefits Specialist to support a broad range of employee benefit and leave programs for an organization based in Seattle, Washington. This long-term contract position focuses on delivering reliable day-to-day benefits administration, answering employee questions, and helping maintain compliance with applicable regulations. The role also contributes to open enrollment activities, vendor coordination, documentation updates, and continuous improvement across benefits and leave processes.

Responsibilities:

• Act as a primary resource for health, welfare, and retirement programs by guiding employees and internal partners on eligibility, coverage details, plan rules, and related support needs.
• Manage daily benefits operations, including coordination with payroll and external providers to help ensure accurate and timely program administration.
• Monitor and respond to benefits-related inquiries covering topics such as enrollment for new employees, qualifying life events, and annual enrollment support.
• Help maintain regulatory adherence by reviewing benefit records, supporting required testing activities, and partnering with compliance stakeholders on federal and state requirements.
• Assist with open enrollment by preparing updates, validating system changes, coordinating with vendors, and helping deliver clear employee communications.
• Keep benefit systems, plan documentation, and employee-facing resources current so information remains accurate and accessible.
• Evaluate existing workflows and recommend practical improvements that strengthen efficiency, accuracy, and service quality.
• Create, refine, and maintain standard operating procedures for benefits and leave administration to support consistency across ongoing processes.
• Oversee benefits payroll and arrears-related files, working closely with leave specialists to confirm accurate deductions and timely direct billing activities.
• Partner with the leave administration team on leave programs, policy documentation, employee communications, reconciliation efforts, and payroll recovery support when needed.