Benefits Consultant

Position: Benefits Consultant
Location: Remote
Job Type: Contract
Duration: 6 months to start (with potential to convert)

Job Description
The Benefits Consultant is responsible for the administration of employee benefit programs, providing guidance to employees on eligibility, provisions and other matters related to benefits. This position will also assist with the strategic design, compliance, implementation and management of benefit programs and initiatives.

Essential Functions of the Role

• Manages and administers employee benefit programs such as medical, retirement, pension, dental, vision, life insurance, short and long-term disability, leave of absence and other benefit programs.
• Assists in the design and implementation of benefits programs to support attraction, retention and motivation of a high quality and high performing workforce including program changes, ongoing education efforts, operations and vendor transitions to ensure employee understanding, smooth transitions and efficient and effective day-to-day operations. Participates in the integration and transition in merger and divestiture partnerships.
• Serves as a key point of contact for plan vendors, third-party administrators, and PeoplePlace to provide guidance on eligibility, plan provisions and other matters related to benefits, in accordance with established policies and programs.
• Consults with all levels of the organization on business and employee needs in order to support strategic business objectives. Main contact for escalated employee concerns/appeals.
• Evaluates processes and procedures to identify opportunities for improvements, and identifies cost-effective solutions to actively manage program deliverables to employees.
• Leads compliance reviews related to the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA), Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA), Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC), and other regulatory and internal policies. Prepares year end compliance testing and government reporting.
• Assists with RFP processes with outside vendors, and monitors contracts, as needed.
• Serves as backup support for other benefit programs, as requested.

Key Success Factors

• Certified Employee Benefit Specialist (CEBS )/GBA designation desirable.
• Thorough understanding of benefits program management techniques and methods.
• Knowledge of ADAAA, ERISA, FMLA, HIPAA, and PBrules and regulations.
• Knowledge of change management principles.
• Ability to work independently, with minimal guidance.
• Ability to lead projects or project steps within a broader project.
• Excellent knowledge of MS Office; working knowledge of PeopleSoft is a plus.
• Outstanding organizational skills.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to influence others.
• Excellent problem-solving ability.

Qualifications

• Bachelors Degree required
• 5+ years experience required