Benefits Specialist

American Crystal Sugar Company•Moorhead, MN

1d•Onsite

About The Position

American Crystal is looking for a motivated individual to join the administration team as a Benefits Specialist at the corporate office. The benefits specialist administers employee leave of absence, disability, and retirement programs, ensuring accurate administration and compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. This role serves as a primary resource for employees and leaders, maintains confidential records, and collaborates with Human Resources, Payroll, Occupational Health, and Retirement Partners to support leave, return-to-work, and retirement processes.

Requirements

Associate’s degree in Human Resources, Business or related field
3–5 years leave/benefits administration experience
Strong FMLA/ADA and state leave knowledge
HRIS/payroll systems knowledge
Excellent organization skills
Attention to detail
Ability to manage multiple priorities
Communication skills
Ability to handle confidential information with discretion and sound judgement
Proficient in Microsoft Office

Responsibilities

Lead and promote a positive work culture through Company Values of Safety, Integrity, Quality, Teamwork, and Accountability.
Administer and manage employee leave and disability programs, including FMLA, ADA, state leaves, parental leave, military leave, and company‑specific policies.
Serve as the primary point of contact for employees, managers, and HR regarding leave and disability questions, providing timely guidance and support.
Receive, review, and process leave requests and documentation, along with Occupational Health for medical leave approval; issue required notices, letters, and communications.
Track continuous and intermittent leave, including paid and unpaid time, ensuring accurate records, reporting, and system updates.
Partner with Payroll and HRIS to ensure accurate pay, benefits continuation, and system processing during leaves.
Maintain compliance with applicable laws and regulations and recommend policy or process updates as needed.
Administer retirement and pension programs in partnership with the retirement plan provider.
Communicate retirement information to eligible participants and respond to employee and retiree inquiries.
Assist with pension estimates and retirement documentation.
Coordinate with actuaries on pension pay report reconciliation, year‑end reconciliation, and required funding notices.
Manage retirement and service awards programs.
Support the administration and communication of the company's wellness program, including challenges and biometric screenings.
Maintain confidential electronic and manual records; generate routine and ad hoc reports.
Review and audit leave files for accuracy and compliance and investigate potential misuse or fraud.
Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, compliance, and the employee experience across benefit programs.
Provide backup coverage for the Benefits Administrator.
Other duties as assigned.

Benefits

Comprehensive medical insurance starting on day one
Health savings account
401(k) retirement savings plan with a Company match and contribution
Paid dental insurance
Paid basic life insurance
Paid short and long-term disability
Vision insurance
Life insurance
Flexible spending accounts
Paid time off
Paid sick leave
Paid parental leave
Paid volunteer opportunities
Paid holidays
Discretionary bonuses
Tuition reimbursement
Service awards
24/7 employee assistance program with access to eight confidential visits with a licensed counselor at no cost