HR Benefits Specialist

Evergreen Treatment Services•Seattle, WA

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Benefits Specialist is responsible for the administration, coordination, and communication of employee benefits programs, leave programs, wellness initiatives, and related Human Resources services. This position serves as a primary point of contact for employees regarding benefits, leave administration, retirement programs, and employee wellness resources. The Benefits Specialist ensures accurate administration of health and welfare benefits, retirement plans, leave programs, and compliance requirements while delivering exceptional customer service and support to employees throughout the employee lifecycle. This position works collaboratively with Human Resources staff, payroll, managers, vendors, and employees to ensure efficient and effective administration of benefits and employee support programs.

Requirements

Associate’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Healthcare Administration, or related field required; Bachelor’s degree preferred.
Three (3) or more years of progressively responsible experience in benefits administration, Human Resources, payroll, or related field.
Experience administering employee benefit programs and leave programs preferred.
Strong knowledge of employee benefit programs and benefits administration practices.
Knowledge of COBRA, HIPAA, ACA, ERISA, FMLA, PFML, ADA, and other applicable employment regulations.
Excellent customer service and employee relations skills.
Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to explain complex benefits information clearly.
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining accuracy and confidentiality.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills.
Proficiency with HRIS systems, payroll systems, Microsoft Excel, and benefits administration platforms.
Ability to build effective relationships with employees, managers, vendors, and external partners.
Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, belonging, and providing equitable employee support.
Ability to maintain strict confidentiality and exercise sound judgment when handling sensitive employee information.

Nice To Haves

CEBS, SHRM-CP, PHR, or related certification preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

Administer employee benefits programs including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability insurance, retirement plans, employee assistance programs, and voluntary benefit offerings.
Serve as the primary point of contact for employees regarding benefits eligibility, enrollment, changes, claims questions, and benefits-related concerns.
Coordinate and administer new hire benefits enrollment, qualifying life event changes, annual open enrollment activities, and employee separations.
Conduct benefits orientations and provide ongoing employee education regarding benefit programs and available resources.
Conduct the administration and coordination of leave programs including FMLA, Washington Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML), ADA accommodations, workers’ compensation, and other protected leave programs.
Maintain accurate employee benefits records and ensure timely processing of benefit elections, changes, and terminations.
Coordinate benefit deductions with payroll and ensure benefit-related payroll data is accurate and compliant.
Work closely with benefits brokers, insurance carriers, retirement plan providers, and third-party administrators to resolve employee and organizational issues.
Support annual benefits renewal activities, vendor evaluations, benchmarking efforts, and benefits strategy initiatives.
Assist with planning and implementation of employee wellness initiatives, employee recognition programs, and employee engagement activities.
Ensure compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws governing employee benefits, including COBRA, HIPAA, ACA, ERISA, FMLA, PFML, and related regulations.
Prepare reports, audits, reconciliations, and compliance documentation related to employee benefits and leave programs.
Monitor benefits invoices and assist with reconciliation activities to ensure accurate billing and financial accountability.
Maintain confidential employee information and exercise discretion when handling sensitive matters.
Assist employees with retirement plan questions, enrollment processes, and educational resources.
Utilize HRIS and benefits administration systems to maintain data integrity and support efficient program administration.
Support Human Resources projects, initiatives, and process improvement efforts as assigned.
Promote employee wellness, engagement, and a positive employee experience through responsive and solution-oriented service.