Human Resources Benefits Specialist

The Applied Companies, TAC, is looking for a SME in the area of health plans. Join our growing company where you will perform a variety of Human Resources functions in support of benefits administration, HR compliance, and broker relations.

What the Benefits Specialist will do:

• Responds to employee benefit and 401k questions, assists with resolution of problems regarding access to or payment of benefits, and assists employees with requirements related to benefit and COBRA continuation. Processes enrollment forms, change requests and benefit terminations
• Evaluates, and administers benefit plans and programs ensuring compliance with both plan and regulatory requirements 
• Manages the administration of benefit plan year-end compliance for ACA and conducts open enrollment
• Maintenance, testing and troubleshooting of benefit electronic data files including recognizing data anomalies and identifying and recommending improvements
• Works closely and coordinates with the HRIS, payroll team and HR teams to ensure that policies and procedures, record and process information are followed and supports the application of client company human resources/benefit policies, procedures, and practices
• Advises and counsels employees on benefits problems and manages escalated benefit inquiries
• Interacts with and supplies information to job applicants, employees, department heads and public and private agencies
• Serves as primary day-to-day contact for third party administrators/ insurance companies; maintain relationships in order to stay up to date on policies and offer employees the best possible solutions
• Maintains up to date information on Federal and State guidelines, and updating policies to reflect those guidelines
• Follows administrative procedures and processes, recommend improvements and update documentation as necessary  
• Oversees and/or administer benefits programs, including conducting analysis and serving as primary contact with providers (including group health and life), all brokers, workers’ compensation, unemployment and retirement plans.
• Completes new client/new employee onboarding. Guide new clients through process of benefit enrollment and handbook implementation
• Develops and maintains client benefit rate sheets and benefit related forms and materials
• Maintains employee medical files, processes new insurance enrollments, changes, terminations, and benefit policies/procedures for each client
• Reviews, gathers reports, and reconciles monthly invoices for payment as needed
• Supports HRBP Team with all benefits related issues
• Conducts various and periodic benefit and HR related audits
• Additional HR Related duties:
• Compiles and assembles policies for creation of client employee handbooks
• Completes and coordinates worker’s compensation paperwork for client and forwards to appropriate workers compensation carrier. Continues follow ups until claim is closed
• Compiles information from client for workers’ compensation underwriting
• Compiles information for creating job descriptions and wage surveys
• Demonstrates a high level of professionalism in dealing with confidential and sensitive issues
• Maintains all human resource policies/procedures on each client
• Maintains detailed notes in client files regarding client communications, issues and resolutions
• Keeps up to date on overall human resource issues and laws through continuing education and human resource community involvement
• Works with clients to develop safety programs as needed
• Adheres to all company policies, procedures and business code of ethics

What the Benefits Specialist will need to have:

• Bachelor’s degree or related discipline or 5 years of progressive experience in HR and benefits administration.  SHRM certification preferred
• Strong understanding of health & welfare, ERISA and ACA regulations and compliance. California and Nevada experience preferred
• Ability to interpret benefit information and company policies and apply them to individual situations
• High initiative, sound judgment, high customer service orientation, effective interpersonal skills, results-oriented, and the ability to work effectively in a team environment
• Detail oriented with a high level of accuracy and maintain confidentiality
• Continuous process improvement orientation
• Proficient with computer software systems (Microsoft Office Suite, application HRIS systems)
• Ability to communicate complex information clearly and concisely

What the Benefits Specialist will Enjoy:

• Comprehensive benefits (Medical, Dental, Vision)
• 401k with matching contribution
• And Much More!