Benefits Specialist

St. Croix Hospice•Mendota Heights, MN

1d•$80,000 - $90,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Benefits Specialist is responsible for administering and maintaining employee benefit programs, ensuring compliance with applicable regulations, and providing excellent support to employees regarding their benefits. This individual provides technical and administrative support to the Director of Benefits and Compensation and is the primary point of contact for employees and leaders with benefit or leave of absence related questions.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in human resources, business administration, or equivalent experience in human resources field
Minimum of 2 years’ experience in benefits administration or similar role
Ability to pass DHS background study.
Familiarity with benefits regulations, including but not limited to ADA, FMLA, ERISA, COBRA, and HIPAA
Ability to prioritize multiple assignments simultaneously 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, exercising extreme attention to detail in all matters.
Proficiency using HR and payroll systems
Proficiency in English with excellent interpersonal, communication and customer service skills
Ability to work with highly confidential information with discretion
Technical proficiency in all Microsoft applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
Pushing/Pulling and Lifting/carrying up to 10 pounds.

Nice To Haves

Certification in benefits or human resources (CEBS, SHRM-CP, PHR)

Responsibilities

Maintain employee benefits programs, including health, dental, vision, life insurance, disability, other voluntary benefits and retirement plans
Handle enrollment, changes, and terminations in benefits systems
Coordinate annual open enrollment and communicate updates to employees
Act as the primary point of contact for employee inquiries regarding benefits, eligibility, claims, and coverage
Provide guidance to employees on their benefits options and assist in resolving issues
Conduct new hire Benefits orientations on bi-weekly basis.
Ensure benefits programs align with federal, state, and local regulations, such as ERISA, ACA, COBRA, and HIPAA
Prepare and submit required regulatory reports, including 5500 filings
Responsible for maintaining compliance with all HIPAA regulations and requirements
Serve as the primary point of contact for employees, managers, insurance carriers, and regulatory agencies regarding leave of absence and workers' compensation matters
Monitor the status of claims and facilitate communication between employees, medical providers, and insurance carriers
Assist employees in navigating the process, including medical evaluations and return-to-work programs
Work closely with insurance providers, brokers, and other benefits vendors
Monitor vendor performance and address any service issues
Review, audit, and process monthly group invoices - working closely with Finance and vendors on any discrepancies
Keep 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 in developing and updating benefits policies and procedures
Provide suggestions for improving benefits offerings to enhance employee satisfaction
Performs other duties as assigned.