Benefits Specialist

Senior Benefits Specialist

We're seeking a senior benefits specialist for a contract opportunity to lead and support our global benefits and leave of absence (LOA) programs. This role is ideal for an experienced professional with 57 years of hands-on experience, advanced Workday proficiency, and a strong analytical mindset. You'll be instrumental in managing complex cases, driving operational excellence, and ensuring compliance across diverse employee populations.

Key Responsibilities

• Complex Benefits Administration & Escalations (35%)
• Act as the primary escalation point for high-impact employee cases (e.g., high-cost claims, eligibility exceptions).
• Interpret policies for unique scenarios and collaborate with carriers / brokers to resolve issues.
• Ensure accurate processing of complex enrollments, life events, and terminations in HRIS and benefits platforms.
• Open Enrollment (OE) Leadership (20%)
• Lead OE configuration, testing, and defect tracking in HRIS / benefits systems.
• Coordinate cross-functional efforts with Payroll, HRIS, IT, and Communications.
• Manage final reconciliations and ensure accurate payroll deductions post-enrollment.
• Data Integrity, Audits & Reporting (15%)
• Design and execute recurring audits (e.g., eligibility, deductions, EDI timing).
• Investigate discrepancies and implement preventive controls.
• Build advanced reports and dashboards to deliver actionable insights to leadership.
• Leave of Absence (LOA) Case Management (10%)
• Oversee complex LOA scenarios in partnership with vendors.
• Ensure accurate benefits and payroll handling throughout leave stages.
• Facilitate ADA interactive processes with HRBPs and managers.
• Invoice Reconciliation & Payroll Alignment (5%)
• Resolve variances and retros; align carrier invoices with HRIS and payroll cycles.
• Collaborate with Finance on monthly close and documentation.
• Employee Communications & Training (5%)
• Develop targeted communications, guides, and FAQs for employees and managers.
• Deliver training sessions and support benefits education initiatives.
• Vendor Management & Issue Resolution (5%)
• Monitor vendor SLAs and service quality; lead resolution efforts for systemic issues.
• Escalate trends and recommendations to Benefits Manager and broker.
• Process Documentation & Continuous Improvement (5%)
• Maintain and enhance SOPs and process maps.
• Mentor junior team members and promote best practices.

Requirements Qualifications & Skills

36+ years of experience in benefits and LOA administration, with a focus on complex case resolution and OE operations. Advanced proficiency in Excel / Google Sheets (e.g., XLOOKUP, pivot tables, error checks). Strong expertise in HRIS / benefits platforms, including configuration and testing. Familiarity with ERISA, ACA, COBRA, HIPAA, FMLA, ADA / ADAAA, and multi-state leave laws. Proven ability to manage cross-functional workstreams and resolve issues efficiently. Exceptional attention to detail, confidentiality, and communication skills. Self-starter with a proactive, solutions-oriented approach in a fast-paced environment.