"Benefits Specialist"

Position Summary

Under general supervision, the benefits specialist is responsible for the administration of assigned benefits programs and providing excellent customer service to benefit-eligible employees, students and their dependents. The benefits specialist provides information and responds to inquiries regarding benefit programs, such as medical, dental, vision, life insurance, retirement plans, STD, LTD, etc. This position resolves and/or coordinates the resolution of routine issues and makes adjustments and corrections to HR systems as needed.

The ideal candidate for this position has some related experience in human resources, benefits, or a related analytical or customer-service oriented role, and is a proactive, organized problem solver who enjoys working in a collaborative team environment.

Workplace Requirements

Hybrid position: "This position is offered as a hybrid role, combining both in-office and remote work to provide flexibility and support collaboration after the probationary period. Per Rice policy 440, work arrangements may be subject to change."

Annual Hiring Range

49,000 to $52,896, with hiring salary commensurate with experience and qualifications. *Exempt (salaried) positions under FLSA are not eligible for overtime.

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree
  In lieu of the education requirement, additional related experience, above and beyond what is required, on an equivalent year for year basis may be substituted
• 1 year of related experience
  In lieu of the experience requirement, additional related education above and beyond what is required may be substituted on an equivalent year-for-year basis
• Skills:
  • Proficiency in Excel
  • Knowledge of data systems and administration
  • Excellent communication skills both oral and written
  • Attention to detail and focus on accuracy
  • Demonstrated ability to maintain confidentiality

Preferences

• Spanish fluency

Essential Functions

• Analyzes policies and program documents for necessary information to provide basic benefits and eligibility information to faculty, staff, and students
• Answers incoming calls and written requests for benefit information and transactions promptly and accurately
• Assists in the annual benefit enrollment process, health and benefit fairs
• Conducts new hire benefits orientation and annual enrollment meetings
• Provides regular reports and data reconciliations
• Aids in updating the HR / Benefits website
• Supports PTO reconciliation
• Publicizes benefit programs
• Performs all other duties as assigned

Special Instructions to Applicants

Please attach a resume and cover letter in the Supporting Documents section of the application, preferably in a PDF format to avoid any formatting issues.

Important: We anticipate strong interest in this role and may close the posting early once a sufficient applicant pool is reached. We encourage interested candidates to apply as soon as possible for full consideration.

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