Benefits Specialist

Purpose and Objective

The Benefits Specialist is responsible for the administration, compliance, and day-to-day management of employee benefit programs, ensuring accuracy, legal compliance, and a positive employee experience. This role serves as a subject matter expert on benefits, partners closely with payroll and external vendors, and supports employees across all stages of the employee lifecycle.

Job Responsibilities and Duties

• Administer all employee benefit programs, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability, retirement plans (401(k)), commuter benefits, and wellness programs
• Serve as the primary point of contact for employee benefit inquiries, eligibility, enrollment, and changes
• Manage new hire benefit onboarding and annual open enrollment processes, including system configuration, communications, and employee education
• Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations, including ERISA, ACA, COBRA, FMLA/CFRA, HIPAA, and California-specific benefit requirements
• Coordinate with payroll to ensure accurate benefit deductions, reconciliations, and vendor invoicing
• Maintain benefit records and documentation in HRIS and benefits administration systems
• Partner with external brokers, carriers, and third-party administrators to resolve issues and optimize plan offerings Prepare benefit reports, audits, and metrics for leadership review
• Support leaves of absence administration in coordination with internal stakeholders and third-party vendors
• Assist with benefits communication materials, policies, and employee training
• Stay current on industry trends, legislative changes, and best practices related to employee benefits

Knowledge, Skills, and Ability Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field preferred
• 3+ years of experience administering employee benefits in a multi-state or California-based environment
• Strong working knowledge of California labor laws and benefit compliance requirements
• Experience supporting leaves of absence and accommodations processes
• Experience with HRIS and benefits administration platforms 
• Excellent attention to detail with strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion
• Strong communication skills with the ability to explain complex benefit information clearly to employees