Benefits Specialist

The Benefits Specialist is responsible for the day-to-day administration, coordination, and communication of the Resort's employee benefits programs. This position serves as a primary resource for employees regarding benefits eligibility, enrollment, coverage, and related questions, while working closely with insurance carriers, benefits providers, and internal departments to ensure accurate and timely administration.

Responsibilities include maintaining employee benefits records, processing enrollments and coverage changes, coordinating open enrollment, and supporting compliance with applicable federal and state regulations. The Benefits Specialist also coordinates benefits-related reporting, audits, and required filings, including Affordable Care Act (ACA) reporting and Form 5500.

Additionally, this position supports the administration of workers' compensation claims by maintaining communication with injured employees, coordinating with insurance providers and department managers, tracking work restrictions and return-to-work status, and assisting in identifying appropriate temporary modified-duty assignments.

Hourly Range: $21.00 - $31.00

• N/A

• Must walk, sit, stand, bend, lift and move intermittently during working hours
• Must have the ability to push, pull and lift from the floor, up to 15 pounds and be able to move with the weight
• Climbing-be able to navigate stairs of varying heights and degrees
• Balancing-be able to maintain balance
• Kneeling, crouching, stooping, twisting, reaching below waist level, reaching overhead and reaching torso level
• Manual finger dexterity-will need dexterity to perform duties and use equipment
• Visual acuity-will need sufficient eyesight to drive a car, use office equipment and perform duties
• Auditory acuity- will need to assist individuals in person and by telephone

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Administer, maintain, and communicate the organization’s benefits program, such as health insurance, retirement plans, and other employee benefits.
• Excellent communications skills in order to explain complex information to employees and answer related inquiries.
• Solid understanding of employment laws and regulations related to employee benefits in Vermont.
• Manage COBRA, new hires, terminations and all changes to employee benefits.
• Research and analyze benefits plans, programs, and policies to provide recommendations for changes and improvements.
• Process and administer employee benefits, which may include retirement plans, leaves of absence, wellness programs and insurance policies.
• Coordinate and conduct employee information presentations, enrollments, and other related educational sessions regarding benefits programs.
• Process benefits enrollments, changes, and terminations in a timely and accurate manner.
• Ensures compliance with federal, state, and local payroll, wage, and hour laws and best practices.
• Assist with employee communication and education about benefits and enrollment.
• Facilitates audits by providing records and documentation to auditors, i.e. 5500, ACA.
• Work with departments to find light duty work for employees on Worker’s Compensation.
• The use of recreational facilities is not the duty or responsibility of this position.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• Associate's degree or equivalent from two-year college or technical school preferred

•  Two to three years as a Benefits Specialist or similar role preferred; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Must demonstrate and maintain any required competency
• Able to speak, read and write in English
• Able to maintain a high level of confidentiality
• Be honest, self-directed, possess initiative, display good judgment and a positive attitude toward daily activities
• Have the ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in written work;
• Be able to work cooperatively and in a productive manner with organization’s employees, customers and the general public
• Be free from the illegal use and effects of drugs and alcohol in the workplace
• Be able to carry out the functions of this job without risk of harm to the health and safety of self and others

• Traveling may be required
• In-Office position