Human Resources

Benefits Specialist

Looking to hire your next Benefits Specialist? Here’s a full job description template to use as a guide.

About Vintti

Vintti is a strategic staffing agency that enhances the competitiveness of US businesses. By connecting SMBs, startups, and firms with highly skilled Latin American professionals, we offer a cost-effective solution to talent acquisition. Our model allows companies to access top-tier expertise at rates that significantly reduce overhead costs, enabling businesses to allocate resources more efficiently and boost their bottom line.

Description

A Benefits Specialist is an essential member of the human resources team, responsible for managing and administering an organization's employee benefits programs. This role involves overseeing health insurance plans, retirement packages, wellness initiatives, and other perks. Benefits Specialists ensure compliance with federal and state regulations, educate employees on their benefits options, and assist in resolving any issues related to their benefits. They also collaborate with vendors and conduct market research to provide competitive benefits offerings, playing a crucial role in maintaining employee satisfaction and retention.

Requirements

- Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field.
- Minimum of 3 years of experience in employee benefits administration.
- Knowledge of employee benefits plans, policies, and regulations, including COBRA, FMLA, HIPAA, and ACA.
- Proficiency in HRIS systems and benefits administration software.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Detail-oriented with exceptional organizational abilities.
- Strong interpersonal skills for effective collaboration with employees, insurance providers, and HR colleagues.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize in a fast-paced environment.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel for data analysis.
- Certification such as Certified Employee Benefit Specialist (CEBS) or Professional in Human Resources (PHR) is preferred.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information.
- Strong customer service orientation.
- Experience in conducting benefits training and presentations.
- Understanding of payroll processes and their correlation with benefits administration.

Responsabilities

- Review and process employee benefits enrollment and changes.
- Serve as the primary contact for employee queries regarding benefits plans and eligibility.
- Collaborate with insurance providers to resolve claims issues and discrepancies.
- Conduct regular audits of benefits enrollments and payroll deductions to ensure accuracy.
- Maintain updated records of employee benefits and ensure compliance with legal requirements.
- Prepare and distribute benefits-related communications, such as newsletters and notices.
- Coordinate and facilitate benefits orientation for new hires.
- Assist in the administration of leave policies, including FMLA, disability, and other absences.
- Manage open enrollment processes, including scheduling, communications, and assistance to employees.
- Analyze benefits data and trends to recommend improvements and cost-effective solutions.
- Process and manage employee life events such as marriage, childbirth, and other qualifying events.
- Liaise with HR and payroll departments to ensure smooth integration of benefits and payroll systems.
- Prepare and submit reports on benefits usage, costs, and compliance to management.
- Coordinate wellness programs and initiatives to promote employee health and engagement.
- Stay informed about legal regulations and best practices in employee benefits administration.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate for the Benefits Specialist role is a highly detail-oriented and meticulous professional with a Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field, and a minimum of 3 years of experience in employee benefits administration. They possess in-depth knowledge of employee benefits plans, policies, and regulations, including COBRA, FMLA, HIPAA, and ACA, and are proficient in HRIS systems and benefits administration software. With strong analytical and problem-solving skills, they can navigate and resolve complex benefits issues and discrepancies effectively. Outstanding verbal and written communication skills, coupled with strong interpersonal abilities, allow them to collaborate seamlessly with employees, insurance providers, and HR colleagues. They are customer service-oriented and excel in managing multiple tasks and prioritizing in a fast-paced environment. Proficiency in the Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel, is critical for data analysis and reporting. Ideally, they hold certifications such as Certified Employee Benefit Specialist (CEBS) or Professional in Human Resources (PHR), underscoring their advanced understanding of the field. This individual maintains the highest level of confidentiality and integrity when handling sensitive information and is adept at conducting benefits training and presentations. Their proactive and self-motivated nature, combined with a positive attitude and approachable personality, makes them adaptable and collaborative, always seeking to stay informed about industry trends and best practices, ensuring the organization’s benefits offerings are competitive and compliant.

On a typical day, you will...

- Review and process employee benefits enrollment and changes.
- Serve as the primary contact for employee queries regarding benefits plans and eligibility.
- Collaborate with insurance providers to resolve claims issues and discrepancies.
- Conduct regular audits of benefits enrollments and payroll deductions to ensure accuracy.
- Maintain updated records of employee benefits and ensure compliance with legal requirements.
- Prepare and distribute benefits-related communications, such as newsletters and notices.
- Coordinate and facilitate benefits orientation for new hires.
- Assist in the administration of leave policies, including FMLA, disability, and other absences.
- Manage open enrollment processes, including scheduling, communications, and assistance to employees.
- Analyze benefits data and trends to recommend improvements and cost-effective solutions.
- Process and manage employee life events such as marriage, childbirth, and other qualifying events.
- Liaise with HR and payroll departments to ensure smooth integration of benefits and payroll systems.
- Prepare and submit reports on benefits usage, costs, and compliance to management.
- Coordinate wellness programs and initiatives to promote employee health and engagement.
- Stay informed about legal regulations and best practices in employee benefits administration.

What we are looking for

- Detail-oriented and meticulous
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills
- Proactive and self-motivated
- Ability to handle sensitive information with confidentiality
- Strong analytical skills
- Able to prioritize and manage multiple tasks efficiently
- Customer service-oriented
- Collaborative team player
- Strong problem-solving abilities
- Adaptable and open to change
- High level of integrity and professionalism
- Excellent organization skills
- Knowledge-seeker and continuously informed about industry trends
- Tech-savvy with a proficiency in relevant software
- Positive attitude and approachable personality

What you can expect (benefits)

- Competitive salary range: $55,000 - $75,000 annually, based on experience and qualifications
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) retirement plan with company match
- Paid time off (PTO) and holidays
- Flexible work schedule with hybrid remote options
- Professional development opportunities and support for continuing education
- Employer-paid life insurance and disability insurance
- Employee assistance program (EAP)
- Tuition reimbursement programs
- Wellness programs and initiatives
- Membership to professional organizations such as SHRM
- On-site fitness center and wellness programs
- Paid parental leave
- Commuter benefits
- Employee discounts on various services and products
- Inclusive and diverse work environment

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