Human Resources Benefits Specialist

Under the direction of the Human Resources Director this position manages all functions associated with the administration of the Agency’s employee benefit program. This position coordinates and manages all aspects of employee benefits, to include, but not limited to: health insurance, dental, vision, short-term and long-term disability insurance, workers compensation claims, flexible spending account plans and employee assistance program (EAP). Ensures compliance with and reporting requirements as mandated by state and federal laws. Fully engaged with the operation of the Abila Human Resources Software Module, benefits section. Maintain positive relationships with all internal and external customers.

1. Manage and schedule employee benefits enrollment. Provide direction to the Human Resources and Finance staff responsible for processing employee benefit transactions.
2. Coordinate and correspond with various internal and external customers, such as agencies and benefit plan administrators (external); directors, managers, departments and staff (internal).
3. Maintain in-depth knowledge and expertise in employee benefits services, makes recommendations on pending legislative actions regarding benefits, conduct benefits research, responds to benefits issues, and answers benefits queries.
4. Analyze the flow of employee benefits data and develops internal procedures, guidance, and training for staff to facilitate the timely and accurate update of employee information and benefits records.
5. Identify necessary changes in business processes to ensure efficient and accurate workflow and the best utilization of system capabilities in order to fit the Agency business needs. Works with HR and Finance staff to develop and implement improved processes.
6. Administer and manage the Agency’s employee benefits plan, to include, but not limited to health, dental, and vision plans, premium rates, short-term/long-term disability and workers compensation claims and leave requests.
7. Researches and recommends to the Joint Labor Benefits Committee (JLB) cost containment strategies and options.
8. Ensure compliance with Federal and State laws, including, but not limited to Affordable Care Act, Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA), Health Insurance Portability and Accountability (HIPPA), Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA), Oregon Family Leave Act (OFLA), etc.
9. Responds to employee questions regarding health insurance benefits and assists employees in resolving claims issues.
10. Identifies changing systems needs due to legal or contractual changes affecting benefits.
11. Researches and evaluates complex human resource and employee benefit issues; develops effective solutions and options; develops costing and implementation proposals.
12. Develops and implements short and long-term work-plans and sets priorities

1. Participate in Safety Committee Meetings to act as HR Representative.
2. Assist supervisors and staff with HR/personnel data, policy and procedure requests.
3. Assist with special assignments to include data collection and preparation of various documents related to collective bargaining and grievance resolution documentation, as well as other HR related matters.
4. Perform other duties as requested by HR Director

All communications are potentially sensitive and are subject to Head Start’s policy on confidentiality.

• Minimum of an AA degree or equivalent Human Resources experience; COBRA, HIPAA, OFLA/FMLA, and benefits experience is preferred.
• SHRM certification desired and/or ability to acquire certification within one year of employment.
• Working knowledge of human resources management principles and practices in all human resource programs preferred.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Flexible and adaptable to changing activities, workloads, and timelines.
• Excellent computer skills including spreadsheets, data bases, word processing software, electronic mail and internet search tools and other applications.
• Ability to take initiative, work independently, and follow oral and written direction.
• Ability to interact cooperatively and in a positive and professional manner with the public, vendors, and co-workers following Agency policy, HIPAA, and ADA regulations.
• Positive interactions with a diverse population of staff and customers of diverse backgrounds, learning styles and socio economic and ethnic backgrounds.
• Self directed, works with minimal supervision.
• Provides support to Human Resources Director and leadership to Human Resources Department.
• Current enrollment in Child Care Division – Central Background Registry

• Frequent sitting for long periods using computer keyboard, telephone and other office machines.
• Ability to work independently and maintain professional boundaries and confidentiality.
• Strong organization and time management skills, ability to meet tight deadlines and work under pressure.
• Regular standing to file documents, make copies, faxing etc.
• High level of efficiency, accuracy and attention to detail.
• Occasional lifting up to 25 pounds, stooping, bending standing and reaching.

• 50 weeks per year
• Supervised by Human Resources Manager.

Updated: August 2021. February 2023

This job description was last updated on 08/11/2021. Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. This job description is subject to change at any time.

Head Start of Lane County is an EEO Employer.
Head Start of Lane County is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. All employment decisions, including the recruiting, hiring, placement, training availability, promotion, compensation, evaluation, disciplinary actions, and termination of employment (if necessary) are made without regard to the employee’s race, color, creed, religion, sex, pregnancy or childbirth, personal appearance, family responsibilities, sexual orientation, gender identity, political affiliation, source of income, place of residence, national or ethnic origin, ancestry, age, marital status, military veteran status, unfavorable discharge from military service, physical or mental disability, or on any other basis prohibited by applicable law.

Are you able to perform all of the duties stated in the job description?

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