What are the responsibilities and job description for the Benefits Specialist - Norfolk, VA position at Xylem Tree Experts?
Job Purpose:
The Benefits Specialist is responsible for assisting with the management and administration of employee benefits programs communicating with employees to answer their questions, resolve issues, and ensure they fully understand their benefit options. This opportunity can be remote.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
This position has no direct reports.
Essential Functions:
Benefits Administration
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Assist with administering employee benefits programs, including health insurance, retirement plans, and wellness initiatives.
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Handle employee inquiries via email and telephone regarding benefits, providing timely and accurate information.
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Process benefits enrollments, changes, and terminations promptly.
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Complete National Medical Support Notices, enrolling those who qualify in the appropriate benefits.
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Assist with the open enrollment process, including communication, education, and system updates.
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Help manage and resolve issues related to incomplete or missing benefit enrollments, including processing Evidence of Insurability (EOI) and life events.
Compliance and Reporting
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Ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations, such as the Affordable Care Act (ACA), ERISA, HIPAA, and COBRA.
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Prepare and submit required regulatory reports and filings.
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Maintain accurate records of employee benefits data and ensure confidentiality.
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Conduct regular audits of benefits programs to ensure compliance and accuracy.
Communication and Education
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Assist with development and delivery of benefits-related communication materials, including employee handbooks, newsletters, and email updates.
Benefits Specialist Org. 02/05/2025 2 of 3
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Conduct benefits orientation sessions for new hires and ongoing education for existing employees.
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Provide one-on-one support to employees needing assistance with benefits-related issues.
Vendor Management
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Collaborate with benefits vendors and brokers to manage relationships and ensure optimal service delivery.
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Keep leadership informed of key developments, potential challenges, and important updates.
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Monitor vendor performance and communicate any issues or concerns.
Benefits Strategy
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Assist in the development and implementation of benefits strategy to attract and retain talent.
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Assist with market research and benchmarking to ensure competitive and cost-effective benefits offerings.
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Analyze benefits utilization and trends to make data-driven recommendations for program enhancements.
Competencies:
Strong knowledge of employee benefits programs and relevant laws and regulations.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Detail-oriented with strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
Ability to handle sensitive information with confidentiality and professionalism.
Proficiency in HRIS (Human Resources Information Systems) and benefits administration software.
Work Environment:
Typically, a Benefits Specialist works in an office environment.
May require occasional travel to attend professional development events or meet with vendors.
Standard working hours, but may need to work additional hours during peak periods such as open enrollment.
Physical Demands:
Activity
Occasionally
Frequently
Constantly
Benefits Specialist Org. 02/05/2025 3 of 3
Sedentary Work
X
Light Work
X
Reaching
X
Standing
X
Walking
X
Lifting
X
Carrying
X
Travel Requirements:
Ability to travel up to 25% of work time.
Required education and experience:
Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field.
At least 1-3 years of experience in benefits administration or a related HR role.
Preferred education and experience:
Professional certification such as CEBS (Certified Employee Benefit Specialist) is a plus.
Additional eligibility requirements:
No other eligibility requirements.
Work authorization requirements:
Must meet I-9 requirements.
Affirmative Action/EEO statement:
The position requires employees to be able to pass a background check and drug screen as required for this job. Must meet I-9 requirements. The company provides equal employment opportunity to all individuals regardless of race, color, creed, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by state, federal, or local law.
Other duties:
Please note that this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time, with or without notice.
