Benefits Lead

Overview

A confidential organization is seeking an experienced Benefits Lead to oversee the day-to-day administration of employee benefit programs and support broader HR initiatives. This role acts as the primary point of contact for benefits-related inquiries, ensures data accuracy and regulatory compliance, partners closely with vendors, and contributes to a positive and seamless employee experience. The Benefits Administrator will manage enrollment, eligibility, qualifying life events, audits, reporting, and communications while supporting special projects and new program implementation.

Key Responsibilities

Benefits Administration

• Administer a comprehensive portfolio of employee benefit plans, including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, HSA/FSA, EAP, COBRA, voluntary benefits, and wellness programs.
• Support benefit enrollment processes, qualifying life event changes, and ongoing coverage management.
• Prepare and distribute benefits materials, including open enrollment communications, guides, and policy updates.
• Conduct benefits onboarding/orientation for new hires.

Employee & Vendor Support

• Serve as the primary point of contact for employee benefits questions, providing timely, accurate, and customer-focused support.
• Liaise with third-party vendors, carriers, consultants, and administrators to resolve issues and ensure service quality.
• Maintain positive relationships with external partners, ensuring accurate and efficient plan administration.

Compliance & Data Integrity

• Perform regular audits of benefits data to ensure accuracy, eligibility, and adherence to internal policies and regulatory requirements.
• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local laws (e.g., ERISA, HIPAA, COBRA, ACA).
• Reconcile monthly carrier invoices, research discrepancies, and maintain required documentation.
• Respond to state agency requests related to medical support, insurance verification, and other mandated notices.

HRIS & Reporting

• Maintain and update benefits information within the HRIS (UKG experience preferred).
• Prepare reports and analyze benefits-related data to identify trends and support decision-making.
• Partner with payroll on benefit changes, deductions, and year-end processes; provide interim support as needed.

Projects & Process Improvement

• Support annual open enrollment activities, including system setup, testing, communications, and vendor coordination.
• Document and refine standard operating procedures for benefits processes.
• Collaborate with HR leadership on special projects and the rollout of new programs or enhancements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field (preferred).
• 5 years of experience administering benefits in a multi-state organization (600 employees ideal).
• Strong understanding of benefits regulations, compliance requirements, and best practices.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Word; strong analytical and reporting capabilities.
• HRIS experience required; UKG familiarity strongly preferred.
• Exceptional attention to detail with proven experience managing audits and data integrity.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage competing deadlines while maintaining accuracy and professionalism.
• Proven ability to handle sensitive information with confidentiality and discretion.

Desired Competencies

• Highly detail-oriented with strong analytical and critical-thinking skills.
• Customer-service mindset with the ability to build trust and rapport across diverse employee groups.
• Able to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Collaborative team player with a proactive, solutions-focused approach.