Benefits Specialist (Strategic Lead)
We are seeking a highly analytical, proactive, and resilient Benefits Specialist to take full ownership of our benefits landscape. Reporting directly to the HR Director, you will serve as the internal Subject Matter Expert (SME) for all things health, welfare, and retirement.
This is a "one-man team" role that requires a unique blend of high-level strategy and hands-on administration. You will be the primary point of contact for our 1,000+ employees, ensuring they receive top-tier support while providing the CFO with the data-driven insights needed for fiscal forecasting.
Key Responsibilities- Plan Management: Full administration of medical (BCBS), dental, vision, Rx, COBRA, FMLA, and Workers' Comp.
- 401(k) Ownership: Act as the primary SME for retirement plans, managing audits, compliance, and employee education.
- Financial Forecasting: Manage account funding to cover benefit costs; track expenditures to provide accurate monthly and annual forecasting.
- Data Analysis: Partner with an analytical CFO to review plan utilization and provide data-backed recommendations for plan design and cost-saving measures.
- Open Enrollment: Lead the annual OE process from vendor negotiations and plan document preparation to final system implementation.
- Compliance: Maintain expert-level knowledge of ACA requirements, ERISA, and other federal/state regulations.
- Vendor Relations: Serve as the main bridge between the company and third-party administrators, ensuring high service levels and competitive renewals.
The Ideal Profile- Experience: Minimum of 5 years of dedicated benefits experience. While we value experience, we are looking for the right person who is ready to grow into a strategic lead.
- Technical Proficiency: Professional-level skills in Excel (Pivot Tables, VLOOKUPs) are required for data modeling. Experience with UKG or Paymaster is a significant plus.
- Analytical Mindset: You must be "quick on your feet" and comfortable presenting numbers to executive leadership.
- Communication: Ability to translate complex benefit jargon into simple, empathetic language for employees.
- Certification & Education: HR or Benefits certifications (e.g., CEBS, SHRM-CP, PHR) are highly preferred.
- Tenure: A proven track record of stability and commitment in previous roles.
Culture & Compensation- Salary: Commensurate with experience
- The Environment: This is a fast-paced, "intense" culture that rewards self-starters. You will work closely with HR Generalists and an HRIS Analyst, but you must be comfortable owning your domain entirely.
- Strategic Impact: This is not just a processing role. You will be expected to provide insights that shape the company’s long-term benefits strategy.
Compensation / Pay Rate (Up to): $85,000.00 - $11,000.00
