Senior Benefits Specialist

About the role

Sioux Falls Specialty Hospital is seeking a Senior Benefits Specialist to own the administration, compliance, and continuous improvement of our team member benefits programs. This position reports to the Director of Human Resources and works with a small team of HR professionals serving the company. With just under 500 team members, you’ll have meaningful visibility and impact across the organization. As a proudly physician-owned healthcare organization, we offer the opportunity to work closely with leaders and team members in a collaborative, people-focused environment.

Responsibilities

• Own Benefits Administration
  • Oversee the accurate administration of team member benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, retirement, COBRA, and qualifying life events.
  • Serve as the go-to resource for team members, leaders, and HR on complex benefits questions and eligibility issues.
  • Lead annual open enrollment, including communications, education, system configuration, testing, and follow-up.
  • Review benefit invoices, reconciliations, deductions, and HRIS data to ensure accuracy.
  • Administer the annual 401(k) audit and support retirement plan administration.
• Lead Benefits Compliance
  • Monitor compliance with applicable federal and state benefits requirements.
  • Oversee ACA compliance, including eligibility, offers of coverage, data accuracy, and required reporting.
  • Support compliance requirements related to FMLA, COBRA, ADA, PWFA, retirement plans, and other applicable regulations.
  • Identify potential compliance risks and advise HR leadership on appropriate action.
  • Maintain required team member notices, documentation, and records.
• Coordinate Leave & Benefits
  • Coordinate benefits administration related to FMLA, disability, and other leaves of absence.
  • Partner with third-party leave administrators and serve as the internal resource for questions and escalations.
  • Ensure benefit eligibility and coverage are accurately managed throughout team member status changes and leaves.
• Manage Vendors & Improve Programs
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with benefits carriers, brokers, consultants, and third-party administrators.
  • Evaluate benefits programs and processes and recommend improvements related to cost, efficiency, compliance, communication, and team member experience.
  • Analyze benefits data and trends to support HR leadership and organizational decision-making.
  • Partner with organizational contacts to support team member wellness and engagement initiatives.
• Be an HR Benefits Expert
  • Serve as the benefits subject matter expert and resource to the Human Resources team.
  • Provide clear, helpful guidance to team members and leaders while referring non-benefit HR matters to the appropriate HR resource.
  • Support HR projects and initiatives where your expertise adds value.

Requirements

• 5+ years of progressive experience in HR benefits administration
• Strong knowledge of team member benefits and benefits-related compliance requirements
• Experience with benefits administration, vendor management, compliance, and HRIS systems; UKG/Kronos
• Experience working with third-party benefits and/or leave administrators
• High school diploma or equivalent GED is required. Bachelor’s degree in a related field; Human Resources, Business Administration or equivalent professional experience
• SHRM-CP or PHR certification
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with sound, timely decision-making
• Adept at interpreting data to drive informed recommendations and actions
• Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills
• Technical competency/proficiency with computers, HRIS, and software utilized by the organization

Benefits

• Health (BCBS), Dental, and Vision Insurance – Eligible FIRST day of employment
• Substantial ANNUAL Discretionary Bonus
• VERY Competitive Pay & PTO
• GENEROUS 401(k) Employer Match
• FREE DAILY Lunches
• Professional License Reimbursement
• Educational Assistance & Professional Growth Opportunities