Benefits & Leave Specialist

Barnes & Thornburg LLP•Chicago, IL

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Benefits and Leave Specialist is responsible for the administration and delivery of benefits plans and leaves of absences firmwide. This position serves as the primary point of contact to provide guidance on benefits and leave options, processes documentation, maintains accurate records and collaborates across HR, payroll and our third-party administrator. The position also provides support across all Firm benefit programs as needed.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in human resources, a related field, or equivalent experience.
Strong knowledge of benefits administration, leave management and compliance (HIPAA, COBRA, FMLA)
Minimum of three years’ experience supporting leaves and benefits.
Experience with HRIS systems; Dayforce and Workday experience a plus.
Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
Ability to manage sensitive information with discretion and work collaboratively across various teams.
Proficiency in MS Office applications

Nice To Haves

Benefits certification such as CEBS (Certified Employee Benefits Specialist) or similar credential is a plus.

Responsibilities

Administer firmwide benefits programs including health, dental, vision, life, disability, leave, wellness, and retiree benefits.
Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local laws (FMLA, disability, COBRA, workers’ compensation, etc.); maintain policies accordingly.
Administer and oversee all leaves of absence across the firm, including FMLA, ADA and state-specific leaves ensuring compliance, timely communication and accurate documentation.
Serve as primary contact for employees, vendors, and providers; resolve benefit inquiries and issues with accuracy and professionalism.
Manage benefits records and elections in HRIS, coordinate with Payroll, Accounting, 401k administrator, Legal Talent Management and HR for accurate processing.
Conduct new hire orientations and distribute clear benefits communications.
Contribute to the development and execution of firmwide open enrollment and wellness programs.
Audit and reconcile premiums, claims, and costs; prepare and analyze reports on benefits participation and leaves.
Review, update and maintain all LOA policies to ensure legal compliance, proper distribution and integration with all other departments.
Perform other duties as assigned to support benefits and leave programs.