Benefits Specialist

ABOUT US

We are seeking a detail-oriented and knowledgeable Benefits Specialist to join our team.  In this role, you will play a key part in managing and administering employee benefits programs, ensuring compliance with regulations, and providing support to employees regarding their benefits options.  The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of benefits policies, excellent communication skills, and a passion for helping employees navigate their benefits package.  If you thrive in a fast-paced environment and enjoy working with HR and benefits administration, we encourage you to apply!

The City of Rapid City offers fantastic benefits including 2 healthcare options with low premiums, 6% employer-matching retirement, life insurance benefits, short-term disability, and generous vacation and sick leave.  Check out the Benefit tab for a full list of benefits.ABOUT OUR JOB

The Benefits Specialist is responsible for managing and administering the City’s employee benefits programs, ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Manages the administrative functions of the City’s employee benefits program, including but not limited to the healthcare plans, dental insurance, vision insurance, life insurance and retirement plans.
• Manages new hire and annual enrollment, ensuring effecting communication to employees and leadership. Administers benefit changes/additions due to qualifying life events. 
• Conducts benefits orientation. 
• Serves as a key point of contact for employees, providing guidance and support on benefits-related matters such as benefits options and coverage details. 
• Collaborates with external vendors and healthcare providers to ensure seamless plan administration.
• Coordinates regular evaluations of benefit plans and obtains updated vendor quotes to ensure cost-effectiveness and market competitiveness.  
• Actively engages in coordinating and conducting healthcare committee meetings.
• Maintains accurate and up-to-date benefits records and documentation. 
• Analyzes benefits utilization and cost data to identify trends and make recommendations for plan improvements.
• Provides comprehensive support to employees throughout the retirement process, ensuring timely and accurate processing of all retirement benefits.
• Administers leave of absence programs, including FMLA, disability, and military leave, ensuring compliance with applicable regulations. Partners with others as appropriate to process ADA accommodations. 
• Remains current on industry trends, regulations and best practices related to employee benefits.
• Exercises discretion and effective communication skills in handling sensitive employee matters, maintaining confidentiality at all times.
• Collaborates effectively within a dynamic, customer-oriented team and actively contributes to the execution of team goals and objectives.
• Builds and maintains positive and productive working relationships with City directors, managers, and staff.

ABOUT YOU

We understand your time is valuable and encourage you to apply if you meet the following minimum qualifications:

Education and/or Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, human resources management or related field required.
• Three years of benefits administration or other relevant experience required.

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:

CEBS (Certified Employee Benefit Specialist), PHR (Professional in Human Resources) and/or SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) preferred.

Salary : $66,000 - $88,000