[Hiring] Sr. Benefits Specialist @Alera Group

Role Description

The Benefits Specialist is responsible for overseeing leave of absence programs while supporting core benefits administration. This role partners closely with internal teams and external vendors to ensure accurate, timely, and compliant execution of leave and benefits processes.

• Oversee and coordinate all leave of absence programs, including FMLA, ADA, disability, workers’ compensation, and state/local statutory leaves.
• Serve as the primary liaison with leave, disability, and workers’ compensation vendors.
• Interpret and apply federal, state, and local leave laws to ensure compliance across multiple jurisdictions.
• Guide employees, managers, and HR partners on leave policies, processes, and responsibilities.
• Coordinate return-to-work processes and ADA accommodations in partnership with HR and vendors.
• Partner with Payroll to ensure accurate pay impacts, benefit continuation, and leave status tracking.
• Monitor state leave portals and ensure compliance with required deadlines.
• Audit leave data and documentation to ensure accuracy and consistency.
• Support administration of health, welfare, and retirement programs, including COBRA compliance.
• Manage eligibility, enrollments, and terminations with a high degree of accuracy.
• Respond to employee inquiries regarding medical, dental, vision, retirement, and leave-related benefits.
• Assist with retirement plan administration, including funding, audits, and reporting.
• Support 401(k) inquiries including contributions and enrollment changes.
• Perform audits and quality checks within HRIS and vendor systems.
• Support open enrollment planning, testing, and execution.
• Partner with vendors, consultants, Payroll, and HR teams on data, eligibility, and compliance interpretation.
• Participate in compliance and technical discussions related to leave and benefits programs.
• Support new hire orientation by explaining benefits and leave offerings.
• Maintain documentation standards to ensure accurate and consistent records.
• Contribute to process improvements that enhance efficiency and employee experience.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience supporting leave of absence programs (FMLA, ADA, disability, and state leave programs).
• Strong knowledge of federal, state, and local leave laws and regulations.
• Experience working with benefits programs including health, welfare, and retirement plans.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.

Requirements

• Experience with workers’ compensation programs.
• Knowledge of ERISA and benefits compliance regulations.
• Experience supporting 401(k) administration and retirement plan processes.
• Background working with HRIS and vendor platforms.
• Experience collaborating with Payroll, HR Business Partners, and external vendors.

Benefits

• Salary range: $80,000 – $90,000 per year based on experience.
• Eligible for performance-based bonus: Yes.
• Alera Group offers comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, life and disability coverage, 401(k), generous PTO, and more.