GENERAL DESCRIPTION: The HR Benefits Specialist is responsible for administering and managing employee benefits programs and leave processes for the agency. This role ensures compliance with federal, and state regulations related to benefits, Workers’ Compensation, ADA accommodations, FMLA, and other leave of absence programs. The position works closely with HR leadership, managers, and employees to provide guidance, resolve issues, and maintain accurate records.
MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:
Benefits Administration
- Manage all aspects of employee benefits programs, including health, dental, vision, life insurance, and wellness initiatives.
- Coordinate annual open enrollment and assist employees with benefit selections.
- Serve as a primary liaison with insurance carriers, brokers, and benefit vendors.
- Research and resolve billing discrepancies and carrier issues.
- Recommend and implement enhancements to benefit offerings to support talent attraction and retention.
Leave Administration
- Administer and track all leave programs, including FMLA, ADA accommodations, Workers’ Compensation, and other leave of absence requests.
- Ensure compliance with applicable laws and company policies.
- Advise managers and employees on leave eligibility, processes, and return-to-work procedures.
- Maintain accurate documentation and reporting for regulatory compliance.
Employee Support & Compliance
- Provide guidance to employees regarding benefits and leave policies.
- Partner with management to ensure consistent application of policies and procedures.
- Prepare reports for internal use and regulatory agencies (IRS, DOL, etc.).
- Assist with new hire orientation and onboarding related to benefits and leave.
Additional Duties
- Support HR initiatives, special projects, and employee engagement programs.
- Participate in staff development and training sessions.
- Assist with Workers’ Compensation claims and light-duty assignments.
- Perform other related duties as assigned by HR leadership.
(These job functions are not to be construed as a complete statement of duties. Employees will be required to perform other related duties as required.)
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
- Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field preferred.
- 2–3 years of experience in benefits and leave administration.
- HR certification (PHR, SHRM-CP) preferred.
- Knowledge of employment laws, FMLA, ADA, and Workers’ Compensation regulations.
(A comparable amount of training, education or experience can be substituted for minimum qualifications.)
SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, AND ABILITIES:
- Excellent organizational, analytical, and communication skills.
- Strong understanding of benefits and leave compliance requirements.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and HRIS systems.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
- Desire to learn and grow in the profession.
CERTIFICATIONS:
- Valid Driver’s License
- Certificates of acknowledgement required: Conflict of Interest, Code of Ethics, Confidentiality agreements, IT Systems and Security, Anti-Fraud, HR Employee Acknowledgement Form.
- Applicants must successfully pass a drug screen and background check as a condition of employment.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS:
- Works in an office setting with occasional travel to program sites required
ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL SKILLS:
- Acceptable eyesight & hearing (with or without correction)
- Ability to reach, lift, bend knees, stoop, push or pull items weighing 25 lbs. or less
(Reasonable accommodation will be made for otherwise qualified individuals with a disability.)
$55,000 - $58,000 per year
