HR Benefits Specialist
: Job Details :

Job DetailsJob Location: University of Lynchburg - Lynchburg, VAPosition Type: StaffEducation Level: 4 Year DegreeSalary Range: UndisclosedJob Shift: Full timeUniversity Overview:The University of Lynchburg is a private, nonprofit institution committed to fostering academic excellenceand community engagement. We value our employees and strive to offer a supportive and inclusive environment where staff and faculty can thrive. As part of our mission, we seek a Benefits Specialist to join our Human Resources team to manage and administer the university's comprehensive benefits programs.Position Summary:The Benefits Specialist will be responsible for overseeing the administration of the University of Lynchburg's employee benefits programs, including health insurance, retirement plans, leave policies, wellness programs, and other employee perks. This role will ensure that all benefits are managed efficiently, comply with federal and state regulations, and meet the needs of the university's faculty and staff. The Benefits Specialist will work closely with employees to provide support, answer questions, and resolve issues related to benefits.Key Responsibilities:Benefits Administration: Manage the day-to-day administration of employee benefit programs, including health, dental, vision, life insurance, short and long-term disability, retirement plans, and wellness programs.Employee Support: Serve as the primary point of contact for employees regarding benefits inquiries, providing guidance and resolving issues in a timely and professional manner.Benefits Enrollment: Coordinate and assist with open enrollment periods and ensure all new hires are properly enrolled in their chosen benefits. Conduct orientations and presentations as needed.Compliance: Ensure benefits programs comply with federal and state laws, including ACA, COBRA, FMLA, HIPAA, and ERISA. Keep current with any changes to benefits regulations and communicate necessary updates to employees and leadership.Vendor Management: Liaise with benefit plan providers and brokers to ensure services are delivered effectively and accurately. Resolve any discrepancies with providers and maintain strong relationships.Benefits Education: Develop and distribute educational materials to employees regarding benefit options, changes to plans, and overall wellness initiatives.Retirement Plans: Administer retirement plan contributions and compliance, ensuring timely processing of deductions, enrollments, and any plan changes. Provide guidance to employees regarding retirement options and planning.Wellness Initiatives: Support and coordinate employee wellness programs that promote healthy work-life balance and well-being.Data Management: Maintain accurate and confidential records of benefits enrollments, changes, and terminations using HRIS and benefits administration systems.Reporting: Prepare reports on benefits utilization, cost analysis, and participation trends. Provide data to support budget forecasting for benefits programs.Qualifications and Skills:* Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field. Equivalent work experience may be considered.* Minimum of 3 years of experience in benefits administration, preferably within higher education, nonprofit, or public sector environments.* Strong understanding of employee benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, and wellness programs.* Familiarity with federal and state benefits regulations (ACA, COBRA, FMLA, HIPAA, ERISA).* Proficiency in using HR information systems (HRIS) and benefits management software.* Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.* Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to assist and educate employees regarding their benefits options.* High level of confidentiality and attention to detail.Preferred Qualifications:Professional certification (e.g., CEBS, SHRM-CP, or PHR).Experience in higher education or nonprofit organizations.Familiarity with retirement plan administration and compliance.