Benefits Specialist
About the role
You will serve as the primary administrator for the organization's leave of absence and workplace accommodation programs. You will be responsible for the day-to-day management of leave and accommodation cases, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local laws, as well as organizational policies and procedures. You will act as the primary point of contact for employees, managers, healthcare providers, and third-party administrators regarding leave requests, disability-related accommodations, return-to-work processes, and related inquiries.
Specializations
This position requires and relies on extensive knowledge of all leave and accommodation laws, regulations, and processes. Sound judgment, a commitment to compliance and confidentiality, superior written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills, and attention to detail are essential functions of this position.
- Interpret federal and state leave and benefits regulations and determine appropriate application in complex or ambiguous situations.
- Exercise independent judgment in approving, denying, or modifying leave determinations.
- In coordination with the Benefits Manager, resolve escalated employee cases where policy guidance is unclear or conflicting.
- Determine appropriate accommodation and leave paths in coordination with HR and legal guidance.
- Manage complex and high-risk leave cases involving overlapping regulations.
- Apply advanced knowledge and judgment beyond standardized procedures.
Requirements
Education/Background
- High School Diploma and minimum of five (5) years’ experience administering corporate benefits and leave administration.
- Associate’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field and minimum of three (3) years’ experience administering corporate benefits and leave administration.
- Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field and minimum of one (1) year experience administering corporate benefits and leave administration.
- Certification in benefits administration preferred.
- Bilingual English/Spanish preferred to effectively communicate with Spanish-speaking clients and stakeholders.
Preferred Qualifications
- Professional certification such as CLMS, SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, PHR, or related HR certification.
- Experience working with third-party leave administrators and disability management programs.
- Experience with workers' compensation and return-to-work programs.
Other Requirements
- Strong knowledge of FMLA, ADA, PFML, USERRA, workers' compensation, state leave laws (CA and CO), and related regulations.
- Ability to interpret policies, regulations, and medical documentation.
- Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple cases and deadlines simultaneously.
- Demonstrated ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive employee information.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office 365 and HRIS/case management systems; ADP experience preferred.
Benefits
We recognize that our success is driven by great talent, and that's why we provide a comprehensive and competitive suite of benefits to serve you and your family.
- Generous Paid Holidays
- Paid Time Off & Paid Sick Days
- Medical, Dental, and Vision for Spouse/Domestic Partner & Children to age 26
- 401(k) Retirement Plan
- Employee Recognition Program
- Tuition Reimbursement for qualifying degrees
- Health Savings Account & Flexible Spending Account
- Free Preventative Services & Wellness Rewards
- Life + Disability options
- Employee Assistance Program
- Telemedicine & Concierge Services
- Pet Care, Life Mart Purchase Discounts
- Mileage & Cell Reimbursement for qualifying roles
- Identity Theft Protection & Voluntary Benefits