Benefits & Leave of Absence Specialist

We are looking for a detail-oriented Benefits & Leave of Absence Specialist to join our team on a contract basis in Minneapolis, Minnesota. In this role, you will be responsible for overseeing benefits administration and managing leave of absence processes while ensuring compliance with applicable laws and company policies. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in benefits and leave management, along with excellent analytical and communication skills.

Responsibilities:
• Administer company benefit and retirement plans, ensuring accurate enrollment and eligibility information.
• Approve and process employee life status changes within the benefits administration system.
• Collaborate with vendors to provide accurate eligibility data for employee benefits.
• Support the annual open enrollment process, including communication and system updates.
• Facilitate new employee orientations by presenting detailed information about the company's benefits packages and policies.
• Ensure employees understand their responsibilities and required documentation for leave requests.
• Partner with third-party vendors to manage leave of absence requests and ensure smooth coordination.
• Communicate with employees on leave to facilitate their timely return to work and relay relevant updates to managers.
• Maintain knowledge of federal, state, and local leave laws, including workers’ compensation and accommodations.
• Monitor long-term disability claimants and coordinate with the benefits team regarding retirements, terminations, and related benefits adjustments.
• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Human Resources, or a related field preferred, or equivalent relevant experience.
• Minimum of three years of experience in benefits and leave administration within Human Resources.
• Comprehensive understanding of laws and regulations, including FMLA, ADA, COBRA, and Section 125 Plans.
• Advanced analytical and mathematical skills, with proficiency in Excel.
• Strong written and verbal communication abilities.
• Experience with systems and reporting; familiarity with UKG Pro is preferred.
• Proven ability to work independently, proactively address challenges, and deliver innovative solutions.
• Exceptional attention to detail and discretion when handling sensitive information.

Robert Half is the world’s first and largest specialized talent solutions firm that connects highly qualified job seekers to opportunities at great companies. We offer contract, temporary and permanent placement solutions for finance and accounting, technology, marketing and creative, legal, and administrative and customer support roles.

Robert Half works to put you in the best position to succeed. We provide access to top jobs, competitive compensation and benefits, and free online training. Stay on top of every opportunity - whenever you choose - even on the go. Download the Robert Half app and get 1-tap apply, notifications of AI-matched jobs, and much more.

All applicants applying for U.S. job openings must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Benefits are available to contract/temporary professionals, including medical, vision, dental, and life and disability insurance. Hired contract/temporary professionals are also eligible to enroll in our company 401(k) plan. Visit roberthalf.gobenefits.net for more information.

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