Benefits and HRIS Specialist

Position Overview:
The Benefits and HRIS Specialist is a strategic and operational role responsible for overseeing employee benefits programs and optimizing Human Resources Information System (HRIS) processes. This position plays a critical role in enhancing the employee experience, driving cost-effective benefits strategies, and leading major initiatives such as the transition from a fully insured to a self-funded medical plan.

Key Responsibilities:

• Administer and manage employee benefits programs including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, retirement, and voluntary benefits.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for employee benefits inquiries, resolving issues related to eligibility, coverage, claims, and life event changes.
• Lead open enrollment efforts, including communication strategy, employee education, and HRIS system updates.
• Maintain and audit benefits data in the HRIS to ensure accuracy, compliance, and a smooth employee experience.
• Proactively monitor benefits utilization and trends, identifying cost drivers and opportunities for savings.
• Evaluate benefit plan performance and partner with vendors and brokers to implement design enhancements or cost-containment measures.
• Lead the transition from a fully insured to a self-funded medical plan, including project planning, vendor coordination, data analysis, employee communication, and ongoing performance tracking.
• Produce and analyze HRIS reports to support benefits planning, compliance, and leadership decision-making.
• Continuously assess and improve benefits-related processes and workflows to drive efficiency and effectiveness.
• Collaborate with Finance and HR to forecast benefit-related costs and propose strategies that align with organizational goals and financial stewardship.
• Cross-train with the Payroll and HRIS Specialist to ensure continuity during absences and PTO.
• Stay informed on relevant legislation and regulations (ACA, HIPAA, COBRA, ERISA) and apply industry best practices.

Requirements

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Proven experience in benefits administration and HRIS management, preferably in healthcare or senior living environments.
• Experience supporting or leading a transition from fully insured to self-funded health plans strongly preferred.
• Strong knowledge of benefits regulations and compliance requirements.
• Proficiency with HRIS systems and benefits platforms (e.g., ADP, Paylocity, UKG).
• Strong analytical skills and ability to leverage data to drive strategic decisions.
• High attention to detail, excellent organizational skills, and project management capabilities.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with a collaborative and employee-centered approach.
• Ability to manage sensitive information with discretion and integrity.

Benefits

Compensation: $80,000-$83,000/year