Benefit Specialist

Full Time
Portland, OR
Posted Today
Job description
The Benefits and Leave Specialist is responsible for administering benefit and leave programs for 800+ employees, retirees, and COBRA participants across the company. Routine activities include direct communication with program participants and with other team members, third-party administrators, brokers, and benefit providers regarding enrollments, access to benefits, payroll deductions, creating and analyzing reports, reconciliation of provider invoices, open enrollment activities and notifications, and providing excellent customer service to participants. This position requires up-to-date knowledge of changing regulations and requirements of each benefit and leave program across multiple states.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE JOB


  • Facilitate employee and dependent benefit enrollment activity at initial eligibility and at each point of needed changes. Ensure eligible participants are informed on decisions they need to make and are well supported in finding answers to questions.
  • Ensure program participants have access to benefits and necessary supports to overcome barriers.
  • Prepare and administer Open Enrollment through the HRIS employee self-service portal. Assist participants with enrollment activities and audit for errors before processing changes.
  • Reconcile data between payroll system reporting and insurance provider invoices.
  • Reconcile coverage contributions and premiums between payroll records and accounting database.
  • Audit ACA Compliance Rules and generate annual 1094-C and 1095-C forms.


  • Complete accounts payable vouchers to providers for monthly coverage and ensure payment and continuity of benefits with vendors.


  • Participate in Payroll/HR teams to facilitate successful system upgrades accordingly
  • Prepare a variety of census documents for annual and semi-annual program updates. Generate reports and census data as needed for budgeting and auditing activities.
  • Coordinate with 3rd party COBRA and retiree billing administrator, assisting with issue resolution as needed.
  • Administer a variety of self-administered, state-run, and fully insured Leave of Absence programs. Track eligibility for and utilization of programs, providing all required notifications.
  • Communicate frequently with participants and their supervisors regarding leave duration and expected return date.
  • Coordinate with HR, Payroll, and supervisors on Leave of Absences, providing coaching and expertise on compliance with protected leaves (ADA, FMLA, state and local leave laws) and ensuring all confidential information is secured.
  • Manage benefit and leave records in the HRIS system and employee files. Ensure compliance with record retention policies and with privacy and security policies.
  • Facilitate annual HIPAA training for self and others as needed.

CORE EXPECTATIONS

  • Knowledge of all pertinent federal and state regulations regarding benefits and leave
  • Knowledge and understanding of benefits contract language
  • Computer proficiency
  • Strong communication skills
  • Well organized
  • Excellent time management
  • Strong attention to details
  • Experience with filing and compliance requirements
  • Strong analytical skills

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or related area of study
  • 5+ years of experience administering employee benefit or leave programs
  • Ability to demonstrate empathy and compassion
  • Excellent communication skills, verbal and written
  • Ability to work with complex spreadsheets and reports with a high degree of accuracy
  • Knowledge of general accounting principles for application to general ledger, AP and AR

SYSTEM QUALIFICATIONS

  • Computer skills: Intermediate Microsoft Office Excel and Word
  • Experience with HRIS software (UKG and/or ADP preferred)
  • Experience managing online Open Enrollment process
  • Records management software and/or benefit specific software a plus

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT

  • Sitting/standing at computer workstation for most of the work day
  • Ability to utilize computer keyboard, mouse, and other typical office equipment
  • General filing and records management requiring a moderate degree of reaching and bending
  • Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds
  • Interact with all Payroll and HR team members and work towards the common goal of servicing Pendleton employees

We are an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.

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