Benefits Specialist

Sarah Bush Lincoln•Mattoon, IL

1d•$54,808 - $84,947

About The Position

Benefits Specialist administers the day-to-day employee benefits functions and participates in development of recommendations related to the design, implementation, and maintenance of the benefits program. Provides proactive communications regarding benefits and assistance to employees with benefit questions and concerns, resolving problems in a timely manner.

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree (Required)

Responsibilities

Administers the group benefit plans within the parameters of the plan documents. Participates in the development of recommendations for benefit programs, assists with implementation, and recommends modifications/improvements as indicated.
Assists directors/managers with interpretation and administration of relevant policies. Remains current with applicable labor law and advises managers effectively to ensure compliance.
Assists employees who have questions about benefits or problems with processing of claims and works to resolve problems in a timely manner. Works closely with vendors to ensure high quality service to employees enrolled in the plans.
Assists in development and implementation of Human Resources Administrative and Departmental policies and procedures.
Assists in preparing annual benefits budget.
Assists with documentation of employee leaves of absence (LOA). Monitors receipt of employee benefit contributions while on LOA and processes “catch-up” payments as indicated upon return to work.
Coordinates benefit enrollment for new employees and employees with status changes that allow for a revision to benefit elections and for annual open enrollment.
Demonstrates personal and professional growth by acquiring new skills and knowledge required to adapt to changing HR needs.
Ensures completion of benefit surveys and performs analysis of benchmarking data to effectively make recommendations for Health System benefit enhancements and/or cost savings. Develops recommendations regarding survey participation to ensure valid comparison.
Ensures compliance with internal benefit guidelines and state and federal regulations.
Maintains payroll system to accurately deduct benefit costs and contributions from employee paychecks. Prepares periodic audits of vendor payments. Performs data entry for employee benefit information and HR dictionary maintenance. Reviews data sheets for completeness and appropriateness prior to entry.
Participates in coordination of insurance plan renewal. Takes the lead in working with vendors/plan administrators to develop and review benefit plan documents and to ensure that SBL practice is in alignment with plan documents.
Performs COBRA administration (sending notices, tracking payments, etc.).
Prepares written communication and presents benefit information to employees at General Employee Orientation and as indicated when changes in the benefit program are adopted. Prints and distributes total compensation statements.
Provides support to visitors entering or calling the HR Dept. Refers or researches for answers as needed. Shares new information or learnings with HR staff for reference.
Serves as a liaison with the Information Systems Department regarding systems related issues and facilitates the development of forms and reports to support the needs of the HR division. Provides troubleshooting support and documents solutions regarding Meditech issues. Participates in system testing prior to live installation of updates.
Stays knowledgeable re: HR internal processes to provide consistent, timely, and quality service for all customers.
Takes initiative to remain knowledgeable re: HR internal processes to provide consistent, timely and quality service for all customers.
Works in collaboration with Compensation Specialist to develop, enhance, and communicate total compensation programs for Health System.