Senior Benefits Specialist

Necco•Cincinnati, OH

3d•Hybrid

About The Position

Necco is hiring a Senior Benefits Specialist to oversee and optimize our employee benefits programs. This role integrates operational benefits administration with strategic analysis, ensuring our programs remain competitive, compliant, and aligned with employee needs and organizational goals. The Senior Benefits Specialist will develop, administer, and assess benefits offerings, including health insurance, retirement plans, wellness programs, and leave policies. The ideal candidate will have strong communication skills, analytical expertise, and an ability to interpret complex data for informed decision-making. This role is based at our corporate headquarters in Cincinnati, Ohio, with hybrid flexibility. A minimum of one in-office day per week is required.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field
3–5 years of hands-on experience in benefits administration and/or benefits analytics
Strong understanding of employee benefits regulations and compliance (ERISA, ACA, HIPAA, COBRA)
Proficiency in HRIS and benefits administration systems
Advanced Excel skills and experience with data analysis tools
Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and organizational abilities
Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Ability to manage multiple priorities effectively
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment
Successful completion of all required criminal background checks.

Nice To Haves

Professional certifications (PHR, SHRM-CP, CEBS) preferred

Responsibilities

Manage day-to-day operations of benefits programs, including health, dental, vision, life insurance, disability, retirement plans, and voluntary benefits
Oversee open enrollment, including communication, system updates, employee support, and vendor coordination
Provide timely and accurate responses to employee benefits inquiries
Administer benefits enrollments, changes, and terminations
Maintain third-party websites and portals for insurance and benefits providers
Ensure compliance with ERISA, ACA, HIPAA, FMLA, COBRA, and other applicable laws
Analyze benefits utilization, costs, and employee feedback to assess program effectiveness and recommend enhancements
Benchmark company benefits against industry standards to ensure competitiveness and cost efficiency
Develop reports and dashboards to monitor benefits trends, financial impacts, and employee engagement
Collaborate with Payroll, Benefits, and HR leadership to refine existing programs and develop new offerings
Design and deliver training sessions on benefits programs and enrollment processes.
Develop communication materials, including benefits guides, FAQs, and intranet updates
Act as a trusted resource, guiding employees through plan options, coverage details, and claims processes
Manage relationships with third-party vendors to ensure service efficiency and contract compliance
Work with brokers to negotiate competitive pricing and favorable terms with benefits providers
Monitor vendor performance and resolve employee concerns
Ensure timely completion of government filings and audits (e.g., 5500 forms)
Maintain accurate benefits data and records within HRIS systems
Stay updated on regulatory changes and update programs accordingly
Practice ruthless pragmatism
Engage in peer-to-peer feedback
Know and live the Necco Corporate Culture Principles
Embody the three essential virtues of humble, hungry and smart
Drive your Individual Performance Scorecard
Adhere to and contribute to the Necco meeting structure