Compensation & Benefits Specialist

The Compensation & Benefits Specialist ensures employees are paid competitively, accurately, and fairly while managing benefits programs that support retention, compliance, and cost control. This role blends market analysis, program administration, and policy application with a strong attention to detail.

Administer salary structures, job leveling, and pay ranges

Support annual compensation cycles (merit, promotions, bonuses)

Conduct market pricing and benchmarking using salary survey data

Ensure internal equity and compliance with pay regulations

Manage day-to-day administration of U.S. benefits programs (medical, dental, vision, 401(k), life, disability)

Coordinate open enrollment planning, execution, and employee communication

Partner with vendors, brokers, and payroll to resolve benefits issues

Ensure compensation and benefits programs comply with U.S. federal and state regulations (FLSA, ACA, ERISA, COBRA)

Maintain audit-ready documentation and plan records

Support internal and external audits related to pay and benefits

Serve as a subject matter expert for pay and benefits inquiries

Explain programs clearly and accurately to employees and managers

Resolve escalated or complex compensation and benefits issues

Maintain accurate compensation and benefits data in HRIS

Prepare reports on costs, trends, and program effectiveness

Identify opportunities to improve processes, communication, and employee understanding

Pay practices are competitive, consistent, and compliant

Benefits programs run smoothly with minimal employee confusion

Compensation cycles are executed accurately and on time

Employees trust HR guidance on pay and benefits

Leadership has clear data to support compensation decisions

4+ years in compensation, benefits, or total rewards roles

Hands-on experience with U.S. benefits programs and pay practices

Working knowledge of U.S. labor and benefits regulations

Experience supporting multi-state or remote U.S. employees

Strong analytical and data interpretation skills

High attention to detail and accuracy

Clear written and verbal communication

Ability to handle sensitive compensation information

Proficiency with HRIS, payroll systems, and Excel

Experience with compensation surveys (Radford, Mercer, Willis Towers Watson, etc.)

CBP, CCP, or similar certification

Exposure to equity, incentive, or variable pay programs