Benefits Specialist

About the role

This role administers employee benefit programs and supports operational excellence across health, welfare, retirement, and spending account plans. The position ensures accurate benefit administration, compliance with applicable regulations, vendor management, data integrity, financial reconciliation, and employee support. The position serves as a subject matter resource for benefit-related inquiries and escalations while driving process standardization, continuous improvement, and audit readiness across all benefits programs.

Responsibilities

• Serve as primary contact for benefit-related escalations; resolve issues, research discrepancies, and coordinate with vendors for resolution.
• Administer day-to-day operations of health and welfare benefits, retirement plans (401(k)/Roth), and spending accounts (e.g., HSA), ensuring accurate and timely processing.
• Document, maintain, and consistently follow standardized processes, procedures, and internal controls across all benefit programs.
• Ensure data integrity through regular validation of files, transactions, eligibility, and system updates; perform error correction as needed.
• Execute compliance and audit activities, including maintaining audit-ready documentation, supporting annual audits, and coordinating required filings.
• Review and reconcile benefit invoices, funding, and reimbursements to ensure alignment with plan terms and vendor contracts.
• Partner with vendors and internal stakeholders to support program execution and continuous improvement efforts.
• Identify risks, gaps, and inefficiencies; recommend process improvements to strengthen consistency, controls, and compliance.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Bachelor’s degree in human resources, business, or related field preferred.
• 3 years of experience in benefits administration, including retirement plan exposure (401(k)); 5+ years preferred.
• Experience with HRIS, payroll systems, and benefit administration platforms.

Skills

• Knowledge of health & welfare and retirement plan administration, including high-level knowledge of applicable regulations and compliance requirements.
• Strong attention to detail with ability to audit, reconcile, and ensure data accuracy.
• Ability to document, follow, and improve standardized processes and internal controls.
• Analytical and problem-solving skills to identify issues, correct errors, and mitigate risk.
• Effective communication and customer service skills for employees, vendors, and stakeholder interaction.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, HRIS, and benefits administration systems.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining accuracy, confidentiality, and compliance.
• Working knowledge of benefits and retirement regulations (e.g., ERISA, applicable federal/state laws) preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Position works in-office at the corporate location.
• Ability to sit for extended periods.
• Ability to use a computer and other office equipment.
• Ability to occasionally lift and carry up to 20 pounds.
• Ability to reach, bend, and stoop as necessary.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to focus and concentrate on tasks for extended periods.
• Ability to navigate the office environment safely, including stairs and elevators.
• Ability to use assistive devices if needed for mobility or communication.