Benefits Specialist

St. Croix Hospice•Mendota Heights, MN

12d•$80,000 - $90,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Benefits Specialist administers and maintains employee benefit programs, ensures compliance with applicable regulations, and supports employees with benefits and leave-of-absence questions. The role provides technical and administrative support to the Director of Benefits and Compensation and serves as the primary point of contact for employees and leaders seeking assistance with benefits or leave matters. The specialist manages benefit enrollments, changes, terminations, and open enrollment; provides employee guidance and conducts biweekly new-hire benefits orientations; supports regulatory compliance and reporting; coordinates leave and workers’ compensation matters; and works with benefit vendors, insurance carriers, Finance, HRIS, and payroll systems. The role also maintains accurate records, produces reports, supports benefits policy updates, and identifies opportunities to improve benefits offerings. The position is full-time and located at the Administration office in Mendota Heights, Minnesota. The salary range is $80,000–$90,000 annually. The role requires prolonged sitting and computer use, as well as pushing, pulling, lifting, or carrying up to 10 pounds. Reasonable accommodation may be made for physical requirements.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in human resources or business administration, or equivalent experience in the human resources field.
At least 2 years of experience in benefits administration or a similar role.
Ability to pass a DHS background study.
Familiarity with benefits regulations, including ADA, FMLA, ERISA, COBRA, and HIPAA.
Ability to prioritize multiple assignments in a fast-paced environment with competing deadlines and short lead times while maintaining a high level of customer service.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with extreme attention to detail.
Proficiency with HR and payroll systems.
Proficiency in English and excellent interpersonal, communication, and customer service skills.
Ability to handle highly confidential information with discretion.
Technical proficiency with Microsoft applications, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Nice To Haves

Certification in benefits or human resources, such as CEBS, SHRM-CP, or PHR.

Responsibilities

Maintain employee benefit programs, including health, dental, vision, life insurance, disability, voluntary benefits, and retirement plans.
Handle benefit enrollments, changes, and terminations in benefits systems.
Coordinate annual open enrollment and communicate updates to employees.
Serve as the primary contact for employee questions about benefits, eligibility, claims, and coverage.
Guide employees through benefit options and help resolve benefit issues.
Conduct new-hire benefits orientations on a biweekly basis.
Ensure benefits programs comply with applicable federal, state, and local regulations, including ERISA, ACA, COBRA, and HIPAA.
Prepare and submit required regulatory reports, including Form 5500 filings.
Maintain compliance with HIPAA regulations and requirements.
Serve as the primary contact for employees, managers, insurance carriers, and regulatory agencies on leave-of-absence and workers’ compensation matters.
Monitor claim status and facilitate communication among employees, medical providers, and insurance carriers.
Assist employees with leave and workers’ compensation processes, including medical evaluations and return-to-work programs.
Coordinate with insurance providers, brokers, and other benefits vendors.
Monitor vendor performance and address service issues.
Review, audit, and process monthly group invoices, working with Finance and vendors to resolve discrepancies.
Maintain accurate benefits records and ensure timely updates in HRIS and payroll systems.
Generate benefits-related reports and provide data insights to support decision-making.
Assist with developing and updating benefits policies and procedures.
Suggest improvements to benefits offerings to enhance employee satisfaction.
Perform other duties as assigned.