The Benefits Analyst keeps up-to-date on legislative and regulatory changes related to ERISA, HIPAA, and other areas of benefit plan compliance and brings knowledge of benefits trends and the market to bear in their analysis; ultimately participating in planning for programmatic and communication enhancements.
Responsibilities:
Administer all company benefit programs ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and plan guidelines (programs currently include health insurance, health reimbursement accounts, life/accident, short and long-term disability, wellness, and various work/life balance benefits.)
Serve as a technical benefit expert on plan and program administration questions. Manage and work with vendors for issue resolution.
Proactively manage, coordinate, and implement new benefit program introductions, cyclical plan activity, and program changes.
Perform data and programmatic analysis, assess market trends, benchmark programs, complete surveys, and prepare presentations summarizing results.
Participate in drafting legal compliance documentation and employee communications including welfare plan documents, amendments, and Summary Plan Descriptions.
Ensure appropriate distribution of compliance notices (including Summary Annual Reports, Health Care Exchange Notices, Initial Cobra Rights, etc.).
Create/conduct or manage vendors for virtual and live enrollment and educational meetings.
Oversee the administration of COBRA compliance. Support the benefit plan program compliance activities including but not limited to non-discrimination testing, compliance filings (5500s, HIRD, ACA), audits, etc.
Oversee the investigation of operational or data issues to ensure prompt and accurate resolution. Find creative and innovative ways to manage and improve benefit administration processes and procedures.
Ability to manage data within a benefits administration system.
Partner with HRIS to ensure the benefits module is configured accurately for cyclical system updates, including eligibility, annual enrollment, and QLEs. Recommend and work through automation and streamlining of processes with HRIS.
Oversee reconciliation of payroll reports for HSA and 401(k) funding, including researching and correcting discrepancies.
Provide coverage backup for leave and 401(k) administration for vacations and support when needed. Participate in special projects in these areas.
Participate in short-term and long-term firm planning activities making recommendations for strategic approaches and actions.
Provide project support and management as needed in any area of benefits and assume additional responsibilities as requested.
Exercise discretion in situations where the policy may not specifically address the unique situation and ensure compliance with company guidelines.
This role requires 60% in-office presence; remote work is permissible 40% of the time.
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree required; preferably in Business Administration, Accounting, or Human Resources. CEBS or WorldatWork Benefits Certification is a plus.
8+ years of experience administering benefit programs – preferably in a multi-state or multi-country environment. Knowledge must include extensive understanding of payroll/HRIS systems, benefits administration, and data entry needs.
Experience in data analysis and creating presentations. Experience in process mapping and formal project management tools preferred.
Proficient computer skills, including the use of Microsoft Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint. Excellent Excel skills, using data manipulation tools, such as formulas, pivot tables, and v-lookups required. Ceridian Dayforce is the current system of record. The ability to quickly get up to speed and master new applications and software is critical.
Strong analytical and critical thinking skills; ability to perform detailed analysis of problems and identify resolutions; understanding when and how to escalate issues to manage risk. Results-oriented; successfully handles multiple tasks, takes initiative to improve their performance, works intensely towards challenging goals, and persists in the face of obstacles or setbacks while maintaining the quality of work.
A creative and proactive approach to problem-solving. Ability to function in a fast-paced, service-oriented environment, prioritize multiple projects daily and adjust to shifting priorities.
Outstanding sense of customer service, with demonstrated ability to instill this in others.
Possess excellent verbal and written communication skills with an ability to influence others.
Ability to function in a fast-paced, service-oriented environment, prioritize multiple projects daily, and adjust to shifting priorities.
Strong planning, project management, and organizational skills.
Strong sense of urgency.
Facility analyzing, working with, and presenting data.
Ability to collaborate and gain the respect, trust, and confidence of the Firm’s attorneys and professional staff.
Possess a “hands-on” tactical approach.
Creative and proactive approach to problem-solving.
Facilitate teamwork and identify opportunities to develop new processes/infrastructure.
Demonstrated ability to grasp and implement new concepts quickly.
Strong analytical abilities, resourcefulness, and attention to detail.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team with a proactive and positive style that fosters collaborative working relationships.
Outstanding sense of customer service.
Deep personal commitment to integrity, excellent judgment, and the highest standards of ethics.
Must display the highest level of diplomacy, tact, and discretion, with comfort in handling and maintaining confidential information.