Benefits Specialist

The Benefits Specialist is responsible for administering and managing employee leave programs in accordance with company policies, federal and state regulations, and applicable collective bargaining agreements. This role ensures accurate processing, documentation, and communication related to leave of absence requests, including FMLA, disability, personal leave, workers' compensation, military leave, and other statutory or company-sponsored leave programs. The coordinator provides support to employees and managers by offering guidance, maintaining documentation, and ensuring a smooth and compliant leave process.

Essential Duties/Responsibilities

Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.

• Assist with the day-to-day administration of health, dental, vision, life, disability, FSA/HSA, retirement plans, and other employee benefit programs

• Process benefit enrollments, changes, and terminations in HRIS and carrier systems

• Support annual open enrollment, including system setup, materials preparation, and employee communication

• Review, reconcile, and audit benefits data to ensure accuracy and correct discrepancies.

• Serve as a primary contact for employee benefits questions, providing clear and timely responses

• Educate employees on benefit options, eligibility, and processes

• Ensures required records are properly maintained and controlled

• Assist with required reporting and audits

• Collaborate with HR team members on employee onboarding and offboarding processes

• Administers various leave programs such as FMLA, disability, and other leave policies, ensuring consistency with company policies and legal requirements

• Processes leave requests by handling the intake, processing, and tracking of employee leave requests, ensuring accurate documentation and compliance with relevant regulations

• Tracks leave balances by maintaining accurate records of employee leave balances, ensuring compliance with company policies and legal requirements

• Assist with special projects, process improvements, and system updates within the Benefits department

• Maintain confidentiality of employee information at all times

• Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Associate's or bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field preferred

• 2-5 years of experience in benefits or HR administration (or equivalent combination of education and experience)

Preferred Qualifications

• Above average computer skills in a networked environment with advanced knowledge and skills using all MS Office products, advanced skills in Excel required

• Excellent communication and customer service skills

• Oracle HCM experience a plus

• Highly motivated, energetic, self-starter with excellent oral and written communication skills

Working Conditions and Physical Demands

• Position is based in an office environment.

• No travel to off-site locations is required.

• Requires prolonged sitting and movement throughout office/work locations, as well as occasional use of computers and equipment.

• Must frequently stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, and climb or balance.

• Must be able to communicate effectively and identify potential workplace hazards.

• Requires the ability to occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 lbs.