Job Title: Benefits & Engagement Specialist
The Benefits & Engagement Specialist enhances the employee experience by supporting benefits administration, leave of absence (LOA), and accommodations, while also contributing to engagement initiatives that promote well-being, inclusion, and organizational belonging. This role serves as a key resource for employees navigating benefit programs, policies, and workplace events such as leave and accommodations, supporting end-to-end benefits administration. It ensures accurate, compliant administration through effective coordination with Payroll, Compliance, and external vendors, including management of payroll impacts and reconciliation of benefits-related changes.
Role Description:
Administer and manage employee benefit programs, including enrollments, life event changes, and terminations, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
Own Leave of Absence (LOA) and accommodation cases end-to-end, including medical (ADA) and religious accommodations, while delivering a consistent and compliant employee experience.
Guide employees through benefits coverage, eligibility, and financial implications during leave, serving as a primary point of contact for related inquiries.
Manage benefits continuation and payroll impacts during leave, including coordinating deductions, identifying discrepancies, and supporting reconciliation and repayment processes upon return.
Collaborate with Payroll, Compliance, and external vendors (e.g., leave administrators, insurance carriers) to ensure seamless execution of benefits and leave processes.
Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations (e.g., ACA, ERISA, FMLA, ADA), partnering with Compliance to interpret and apply evolving guidelines.
Support benefits and engagement communications, including open enrollment, policy updates, leave guidance, and employee education.
Analyze benefits utilization, leave trends, and engagement data to identify opportunities for improvement.
Manage and support employee engagement programs (e.g., recognition, surveys, well-being initiatives) aligned to company culture and values.
Partner with HR and leadership to support inclusion, retention, and overall employee satisfaction.
Behaviors and Competencies:
Empathy and Service Orientation – Listens actively and responds compassionately to employee needs.
Collaboration – Builds trust and works effectively across diverse teams and functions.
Integrity and Accountability – Demonstrates reliability and ethical judgment in handling confidential information.
Detail Orientation – Ensures completeness and accuracy in benefit and engagement processes.
Innovation and Continuous Improvement – Proactively seeks ways to enhance employee experiences.
Inclusive Communication – Promotes accessible, respectful, and transparent dialogue at all levels.
Skill Level Requirements 2-3 years of proven experience with HR Benefits.
Proven experience in benefits administration with hands-on LOA and accommodation management.
Strong knowledge of leave programs (FMLA, disability), ADA accommodations, and benefits administration processes.
Experience managing benefits during leave and understanding payroll/benefits interaction (deductions, repayment, coverage continuation).Ability to own cases end-to-end, including employee guidance, vendor coordination, and resolution.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to translate complex policies into clear guidance.
Analytical mindset with strong attention to detail and accuracy.
Proficiency with HRIS systems and benefits administration platforms.
Preferred Requirements:
Experience managing complex or multi-state leave and accommodation cases.
Familiarity with benefits vendors and leave administration partners.
Experience implementing or supporting engagement initiatives, surveys, or recognition programs.
Project management or event coordination experience.
Familiarity with HR metrics and reporting best practices.
Other Requirements:
Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field required.
HR certification (e.g., SHRM-CP, PHR) preferred.
Continuing education in benefits, compliance, or employee experience is a plus.
Hours/shift subject to be determined.
Position based in Somerset, NJ or Austin, TX.The estimated annual pay range for this position is $60,000 - $90,000 which includes a base salary. The compensation for this position is dependent on job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and market location and, therefore, will vary from individual to individual. Benefits may include, but are not limited to, medical, vision, dental, 401K, and flexible spending.
Equal Employment Opportunity: M/F/Disability/Protected Veteran Status
