Benefits and Leave Specialist

Woodcraft Rangers•Los Angeles, CA

19h•Hybrid

About The Position

The Benefits and Leave Specialist supports the day-to-day administration of employee benefits programs and leave of absence processes. This role ensures accurate, timely, and compliant administration while serving as a trusted resource to employees and internal stakeholders. This position partners closely with HR, payroll, and external vendors to deliver high-quality service and support positive employee experience. The Specialist also identifies opportunities to improve processes, workflows, and systems related to benefits and leave administration.

Requirements

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field, OR equivalent combination of education and experience.
3+ years of experience in benefits, HR operations, or related role
Experience supporting high-volume or multi-site organizations
Strong knowledge of benefits and leave laws (FMLA, CFRA, PDL, PFL)
Strong attention to detail and ability to manage sensitive, confidential information with discretion.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook).
Experience with HRIS systems (ADP or similar) to maintain data accuracy and generate reports to support decision-making.
Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
Experience working in a non-profit or mission-driven organization.

Responsibilities

Support employee enrollment in medical, dental, vision, life, and other benefit plans during onboarding, open enrollment, and qualifying life events.
Maintain accurate benefits data in ADP and coordinate with vendors and carriers.
Respond to employee inquiries regarding eligibility, coverage, and claims.
Assist with benefits, billing, reconciliation, and invoice processing.
Support annual open enrollment planning, including communications, system setup, and employee education sessions.
Assist employees with enrollment, contribution changes, and beneficiary updates for the 403(b) Retirement Plan.
Coordinate with third-party administrators (TPA) and recordkeepers for the 403(b) plan.
Ensure accurate and timely contribution processing for the 403(b) plan each payroll cycle.
Support required notices, disclosures, Form 5500 preparation, and audits for the 403(b) plan.
Respond to employee questions regarding 403(b) plan features and options.
Stay current on IRS regulations and non-profit-specific 403(b) plan requirements to ensure ongoing compliance.
Administer FMLA, state leave, personal leave, and other leave programs in compliance with applicable laws and organizational policies.
Serve as a primary point of contact for employees requesting leave, providing clear guidance on procedures and documentation requirements.
Track and maintain accurate leave records, ensuring timely notifications and return-to-work coordination.
Coordinate with managers and payroll regarding leave status and pay continuation.
Maintain confidential leave files and ensure compliance with privacy regulations.
Ensure compliance with California-specific leave laws including CFRA, PDL, and Paid Family Leave (PFL).
Ensure benefits and leave programs comply with federal and state regulations.
Utilize HRIS systems (ADP) to maintain data integrity and generate reports.
Support audits, compliance filings, and reporting requirements.
Develop and distribute clear, employee-friendly communications about benefits and leave programs.
Support new hire orientation and onboarding processes and explain benefits and leave policies.
Support in identifying opportunities to improve the employee experience related to benefits and leave.