"HR Generalist II/Benefits"

Job Summary: HR Generalist II/Benefits has responsibility for day-to-day administration of employee benefits programs, including health insurance, retirement plans, and other ancillary benefits. Duties also include administering leaves of absence such as FMLA, workers compensation and short and long-term disability. Role is crucial in ensuring that employees receive comprehensive information and support regarding their benefits, contributing to their overall well-being and satisfaction with employee experience.

Essential Functions:

• Administer health, dental, vision, and life insurance plans. Oversee retirement plans, including 403(b), 457(f), 401(a), and pension. Serve as primary liaison with insurance brokers, carriers, and other benefits providers.
• Administer leave programs, including FMLA, short- and long-term disability, workers compensation and other leaves of absence.
• Provide guidance and support to employees regarding benefits options and processes. Conduct benefits orientation sessions for new hires. Assist employees with claims issues, benefits questions, and plan changes. Communicate effectively and compassionately with employees to address their needs and concerns.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations related to benefits. Maintain in-depth knowledge of legal requirements related to benefits and leaves of absence, including ACA, ERISA, HIPAA, FMLA and ADA. Prepare and file required regulatory reports, such as ACA filings. Maintain accurate and up-to-date employee benefits records.
• Develop and deliver materials to inform employees about benefits and updates and changes. Organize and conduct benefits fairs and wellness programs to promote health and wellness of employees. Maintain and update benefits page on employee portal.
• Administer and maintain benefits administration software, Employee Navigator. Ensure accurate and timely data entry and updates in software. Provide training and support to employees on using software. Proactively and independently conduct research on industry trends and best practices related to employee benefits. Analyze current benefits offerings and benchmark against research and peer institutions to ensure competitive and comprehensive benefits packages. Provide recommendations for enhancements or changes to existing benefits programs based on research findings.
• Lead or participate in HR or college-wide projects such as software implementations/upgrades/testing, policy/procedure development, and process improvement initiatives.
• Serve as back-up for Compensation Generalist duties.
• Provide generalist support for other areas including Compensation, Recruitment, Employee Relations, Professional Development, etc.

Other Duties:

• Other duties as assigned.

Job Specifications: Bachelors degree in HR, Business Administration, or a related field is required. Advanced degree (MBA, MHRM) is a plus. HR certification (e.g., SHRM-CP, PHR) is preferred. Benefits-specific certification (e.g., Certified Employee Benefit Specialist (CEBS)) is a plus. Minimum of 3 years experience in benefits administration; experience with benefits administration in an educational or public sector environment is highly desirable. Demonstrated experience managing health insurance plans, retirement programs, and leave policies required. Proficiency in HRIS systems required and experience with Banner preferred (such as ADP, Workday, or similar platforms). Competent in Microsoft Office Suite including Excel and Outlook. Familiarity with benefits management software; experience with Employee Navigator is preferred. In-depth understanding of federal and state regulations governing employee benefits, including ACA, ERISA, HIPAA, and FMLA. Experience preparing and submitting regulatory filings and reports. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail. Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. Excellent communication and people skills, with ability to explain complex benefits information clearly and concisely and to communicate effectively and compassionately with employees. Ability to effectively collaborate with HR teammates, other employees, benefits vendors and other external contacts. Ability to manage confidential information with discretion and professionalism. Customer service orientation and commitment to providing excellent service to employees. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Flexibility and adaptability to changing priorities and needs. Initiative-taking and resourceful with a focus on continuous improvement. Demonstrated ability to manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously. To provide best service to our external and internal customers, all positions at Lake Michigan College require regular and predictable on-site attendance as an essential job functions. Under certain circumstances, College may consider alternative work arrangements and will do so in compliance with and according to parameters outlined in Colleges Flexible Scheduling and Remote Work Options policy.

Salary Range: $58,489-$76,862