Human Resources Benefits Partner

At Indian River State College, we believe employee well-being is foundational to a thriving campus community. We are seeking a knowledgeable, service-driven Benefits Partner who combines technical expertise with empathy and precision.

In this role, you will serve as the primary resource for employee health, welfare, and retirement programs while helping shape a benefits experience that is clear, supportive, and people-centered. You’ll contribute to benefits administration, compliance, wellness initiatives, and process

improvements that strengthen how The River supports employees.

This position is ideal for someone who enjoys solving complex challenges, simplifying processes, building trusted relationships, and contributing to an innovative, service-focused HR team.

About Us

Indian River State College is a leading public institution on Florida’s Treasure Coast, serving students across multiple campuses and counties. We are dedicated to academic excellence, innovation, and community engagement.

At The River, we value the perspectives and experiences that create a supportive, inclusive, and inspiring workplace. With flexible learning options and programs like the Promise Program offering tuition-free access, we help students—and employees—thrive.

Why Join the River

When you join IRSC, you become part of a mission-driven community where your work matters. You’ll help shape the employee experience while contributing to a college that is changing lives.

What We Offer

• Health & Wellness: Medical, dental, vision, FSA/HSA, life insurance, EAP
• Affordable Coverage: Plans starting at $50/month (individual)
• Retirement: Florida Retirement System 403(b)/Roth options
• Time Off: Generous vacation, sick, and personal leave
• Perks: Discounts and local attractions
• Growth: Professional development and career advancement

Job Summary

Under general direction, this role serves as the primary resource for employee benefits programs, ensuring accurate administration, compliance, and a high level of service. Oversees the full lifecycle of benefits—from enrollment through vendor management—while contributing to HR transformation initiatives that enhance employee well-being.

Key Responsibilities

Benefits Administration

• Administer medical, dental, vision, life, disability, FSA/HSA, and retirement programs
• Manage FRS participation and 403(b) plans
• Process enrollments, changes, and terminations
• Partner with Payroll on deductions and reconciliations
• Maintain accurate records and resolve issues with vendors
• Support onboarding and employee inquiries

Compliance & Risk

• Ensure compliance with ACA, HIPAA, COBRA, FMLA, ADA, ERISA
• Manage reporting (1094/1095-C, 5500s, SPDs)
• Administer COBRA and leave programs
• Conduct audits and maintain compliance calendars
• Protect confidential employee information

Employee Experience

• Support onboarding, open enrollment, and life events
• Develop clear, engaging benefits communications
• Conduct education sessions and one-on-one counseling
• Serve as a trusted advisor during major life changes

Wellness & Strategy

• Support wellness programs and employee engagement initiatives
• Partner with vendors to promote health and well-being
• Analyze participation data and recommend improvements
• Stay current on benefits trends and innovations

Data & Process Improvement

• Track benefits data, trends, and costs
• Identify efficiencies and improve workflows
• Support HR systems optimization and reporting
• Contribute to process improvement initiatives

Vendor Management

• Serve as liaison to brokers and carriers
• Support renewals, evaluations, and performance monitoring

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in HR, Business, or related field
• 4 years of benefits administration experience
• Experience with compliance (ACA, HIPAA, COBRA, FMLA, ADA, ERISA)
• HRIS experience

Preferred

• Master’s degree or HR certification (PHR, SHRM-CP, CEBS)
• Higher education or public sector experience
• Experience with FRS, ADP, or Workday

Core Competencies

• Benefits expertise and compliance knowledge
• Strong communication and customer service skills
• Analytical thinking and attention to detail
• Technology proficiency and project management
• Relationship building and adaptability

Physical Demands & Work Environment

Sedentary role with occasional lifting up to 25 lbs. Some travel may be required between campus locations. Flexibility needed during peak periods such as open enrollment.

Additional Expectations

• Employees are expected to maintain professionalism, adapt to new technologies, and follow all policies and procedures. Employment is at-will.