Benefit Specialist

Position Summary:

The Benefits and Leave Specialist is responsible for the day-to-day administration of employee benefits programs and leave of absence processes. This role ensures compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, provides excellent support to employees, and acts as a liaison between employees, insurance carriers, and third-party vendors.

Key Responsibilities:

- Administer employee benefit programs including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability, FSA/HSA, and 401(k) plans

- Manage leave of absence programs including FMLA, ADA, workers’ compensation, personal, and military leave

- Serve as the main point of contact for employee inquiries regarding benefits and leaves

- Maintain accurate benefit and leave records in HRIS and vendor systems

- Review and reconcile carrier invoices and ensure timely payments

- Coordinate open enrollment including system setup, communications, and employee support

- Track leave balances and documentation, and ensure compliance with required notice, certifications, and return-to-work protocols

- Partner with payroll to ensure accurate benefit deductions and leave pay coordination

- Monitor and ensure compliance with federal and state laws (e.g., ERISA, COBRA, HIPAA, FMLA, ADA)

- Support audits and reporting related to benefits and leave

- Educate employees on available programs and assist with escalated issues or appeals

- Assist with wellness initiatives and benefit plan communications as needed

Qualifications:

- Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field preferred

- 3+ years of experience in benefits administration and/or leave management required

- Working knowledge of benefits and leave laws and regulations (FMLA, ADA, COBRA, HIPAA)

- Experience with HRIS systems (e.g., ADP Workforce Now)

- Strong organizational and problem-solving skills

- Excellent written and verbal communication skills

- Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information

Preferred Qualifications:

- CEBS, FMLA/Leave Management certification, or SHRM/PHR credentials a plus

- Experience reconciling vendor feeds and resolving claim issues

- Familiarity with benefits renewal and open enrollment processes