Job Title: Senior Benefits Analyst
Job Summary:
The Senior Benefits Analyst is responsible for the strategic administration, analysis, and continuous improvement of employee benefits programs, including health and welfare plans, retirement plans, leave programs, and voluntary benefits. This role serves as a subject matter expert on benefits compliance, plan design, vendor management, and benefits operations. The Senior Benefits Analyst partners with leadership, vendors, and internal stakeholders to evaluate program effectiveness, ensure regulatory compliance, and enhance the employee benefits experience through data-driven recommendations and process improvements.
Key Responsibilities:
Benefits Strategy and Administration: Administer and oversee the day-to-day operations of group benefits programs, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement plans, and voluntary benefits. Support the development, implementation, and evaluation of benefit plan strategies that align with organizational goals and employee needs. Serve as the primary resource for complex benefits inquiries, escalated claims issues, and plan interpretation.
Compliance and Governance: Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local benefits laws and regulations, including HIPAA, State Continuation, and ACA. Coordinate annual compliance testing, audits, reporting, and required filings. Maintain and update plan documents, summary plan descriptions (SPDs), notices, and other regulatory communications.
Employee Support: Provide guidance and support to employees regarding benefits enrollment, plan options, and claims issues.
Vendor and Consultant Management: Manage relationships with benefits carriers, third-party administrators, brokers, consultants, and other vendors. Monitor vendor performance, service levels, and contractual obligations. Partner with vendors to resolve complex issues and implement plan enhancements.
Data Analysis: Analyze benefits utilization, enrollment, claims, and financial data to identify trends, risks, and opportunities.
Reporting: Develop reports, dashboards, and presentations for leadership to support decision-making.
Open Enrollment and Employee Experience: Lead the annual open enrollment process, including project planning, system configuration, employee communications, vendor coordination, and post-enrollment audits. Develop and deliver benefits education
materials, presentations, and training programs. Promote employee understanding and engagement with benefits offerings through ongoing communication initiatives.
Process Improvement and Project Leadership: Identify opportunities for process improvements and implement best practices to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of benefits administration. Lead benefits-related projects, including system implementations, vendor transitions, and program enhancements. Collaborate with HR, Payroll, Finance, and other departments to ensure accurate administration and integration of benefits programs.
Leadership and Mentorship: Provide guidance, training, and support to Benefits Analysts, HR team members, and other stakeholders. Act as a subject matter expert and trusted advisor on benefits-related matters. Assist leadership with strategic planning, policy development, and benefits program evaluations.
Qualifications:
Education: Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field. Or equivalent experience. SHRM-CP/SHRM-SCP, PHR/SPHR, or other benefits-related certification preferred.
Experience: Minimum of 5 years of experience in benefits administration or a related role.
Skills:
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Proficiency in benefits administration software and Microsoft Office Suite.
Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Knowledge of federal, state, and local benefits laws and regulations.
Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines with a high degree of accuracy.
Working Conditions:
Work Environment: Office setting with occasional remote work options.
Physical Requirements: Ability to sit for extended periods and use a computer.