Associate Benefits Specialist

Jackson Healthcare•Alpharetta, GA

About The Position

The Associate Benefits Specialist supports the day-to-day administration of the Company’s health and welfare benefit programs, including the 401(k) plan, under the guidance of more senior team members. This entry-level role assists with new-hire onboarding, annual open enrollment, routine benefits inquiries, and leave administration while building foundational knowledge of benefits administration in a shared services environment. Attention to detail, a customer-service mindset, and the ability to follow established procedures are essential. The position may require up to 5–10% travel, primarily for leadership and Family of Companies engagement. It operates in a typical hybrid or office environment. The role involves sitting for extended periods, frequent use of hand equipment, and regular communication in person, by phone, and by video conference. Standing and walking are occasional, and the associate may occasionally lift or move up to 10–15 pounds. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Requirements

0–2 years of experience in HR, benefits, or a related administrative function.
Equivalent experience may be considered in place of the preferred degree.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and other multi-carrier systems.
Ability to follow established standards, procedures, and documentation.
Attention to detail and ability to produce precise work.
Ability to apply Company policies and procedures to routine tasks and follow standard practices.
Effective communication and ability to build stable working relationships internally.
Ability to prioritize tasks, adapt when unexpected work arises, and provide positive customer service.
Must be adaptable and willing to learn and leverage emerging AI technologies.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business, or a related field.
Exposure to HRIS or benefits administration systems.
Coursework or a certificate in Human Resources.

Responsibilities

Assist with day-to-day administration of health and welfare benefit programs under direct supervision.
Enter and verify associate benefits data in internal and external benefits systems.
Support new-hire enrollments, qualifying life event changes, and termination processing.
Respond to routine associate benefits inquiries and escalate complex issues to senior team members.
Maintain and update employee benefit files and record-keeping systems.
Support open enrollment logistics, communications, and data entry.
Help audit and reconcile vendor invoices under the direction of the Benefits Specialist or Manager.
Assist with intake and initial processing of leave-of-absence requests.
Track FMLA, STD, LTD, and state leave case timelines and documentation.
Respond to routine associate questions about leave processes and escalate complex cases to a senior analyst.
Perform other administrative benefits duties as assigned.