Senior Specialist, Benefits

Build-A-Bear Workshop•Saint Louis, MO

54d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Senior Specialist, Benefits plays a key role in managing and enhancing the organization's employee benefits programs. This position is responsible for the day-to-day administration of health, wellness, retirement, and leave programs, ensuring compliance with all applicable laws and regulations while delivering exceptional employee experiences. The Senior Specialist, Benefits is detail-oriented, knowledgeable about benefits regulations, and serves as a trusted resource for associates.

Requirements

Bachelors Degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field
2+ years of progressive experience in benefits administration
Skilled in Microsoft Office, Teams & SharePoint
Deep knowledge of benefits regulations
Strong analytical, communication, and project management skills
Expert customer service experience

Nice To Haves

Experience with enterprise HRIS platforms and benefits administration systems
Experience in supporting open enrollment and benefits transitions or vendor changes
Experience supporting multi-state and global employee population (the role requires experience in more than just LOA management)

Responsibilities

Manage the administration of group benefit programs, such as health, dental, vision, life insurance, disability, retirement plans, and wellness initiatives.
Maintain and manage vendor relationships, including resolving service issues
Provide comprehensive support to the benefits team throughout the open enrollment cycle, including preparation, communication, and follow-up.
Manage associate leave requests (FMLA, ADA, Workers' Compensation, and Personal Leave) and coordinate with employees, managers, and third-party administrators to ensure a smooth process.
Function as the primary liaison between the company and third-party providers.
Assist with ongoing benefits compliance activities to ensure adherence to all applicable laws and regulations.
Monitor and evaluate benefits utilization, costs, and trends; prepare analyses and recommend enhancements to improve program effectiveness.
Process and verify final paycheck requests accurately and in a timely manner.
Serve as the primary contact for employee benefits inquiries, providing guidance and resolving complex issues.
Develop and deliver benefits education materials, including presentations, FAQs, and intranet content.
Support wellness integration by collaborating with the Manager Benefits and Director of Total Rewards to create a comprehensive, holistic, benefits strategy.