Benefits Specialist

About the role

The Benefits Specialist is responsible for administering and managing an organization's employee benefits programs, including health insurance, retirement plans, and other perks. This role ensures these programs are current, compliant, and competitive, while also assisting employees with enrollment, claims, and general inquiries.

Responsibilities

• Demonstrate safety as a core value and establish a safe work environment by actively leading the safe execution of work.
• Manage and oversee the day-to-day operations of employee benefits programs, such as medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability, and retirement plans.
• Regularly review, reconcile, and prepare carrier invoices for benefits programs, ensuring accurate submission to Finance for payment and reporting.
• Aid new employees with the enrollment process and ensure accurate data entry, as well as assist with the annual Open Enrollment process, including the preparation of communication materials, system configuration in the HRIS, and coordination with third-party vendors to ensure a seamless experience.
• Educate employees about their benefits options, changes to plans, and how to utilize their benefits.
• Help employees navigate the claims process and resolve any issues related to their benefits.
• Stay up-to-date on relevant regulations and ensure the organization's benefits programs comply with all applicable laws and guidelines.
• Provide guidance and interpretation of benefits policies and procedures to employees and management.
• Interact with insurance brokers, benefits carriers, and other vendors to ensure smooth operations and effective plan management.
• Analyze benefits data, prepare reports, and identify trends to improve program effectiveness.
• Support and promote employee wellness programs and initiatives.
• Serve as the primary contact for employee inquiries regarding benefits, providing timely and accurate information and resolution of issues.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local benefits regulations (e.g., ERISA, COBRA, HIPAA, ACA); manage ACA tracking and assist with 1095-C preparation and distribution.
• Assist with benefits administration processes including payroll deductions, benefit arrears, and invoice reconciliation, partner with finance and payroll teams for accurate reporting.
• Analyze benefits utilization and employee engagement metrics to measure program effectiveness and inform strategy.
• Collaborate with HR team on benefits-driven recruitment and retention initiatives; support the preparation of the annual benefits budget.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date employee records with all benefits vendors and internal systems.
• Deliver ongoing employee support and communication to drive awareness and understanding of available benefit offerings.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources or related field required.
• Three to five years of benefits experience required.
• Extensive knowledge of quantitative and qualitative research methods.
• Extensive knowledge of human resource laws, regulations, and best practices.
• In-depth understanding of state and local laws governing leave such as ERISA, HIPAA, COBRA, and FMLA to ensure compliance.
• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office-Excel—intermediate to advanced level with some understanding of payroll system is highly preferred.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or similar software.

Skills

• Customer service mindset.
• Accountability for results.
• Problem solving/root cause analysis.
• Process discipline.
• Advanced data analysis and reporting skills.
• Employee benefit program knowledge.

Benefits

We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance as well as voluntary benefits such as accident insurance, hospital indemnity, and critical illness for you and your family.
• Financial protection benefits, including life insurance, disability insurance, and business travel accident insurance.
• Tax advantaged accounts such as Healthcare and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA).
• Paid holidays, personal days, and vacation days to support work-life balance.
• A 401K retirement plan with a company match and annual fixed contribution.
• Wellness programs with incentives and an on-site clinic available at our Rumford and Biron location.

Pay

Competitive salaries, comprehensive health benefits, and paid time off.

Schedule

Onsite at a manufacturing facility.