HR Benefits Specialist

SUMMARY:

This position administers the CHS leave management program. Functional responsibilities include the effective management, administration, and compliance of programs including FMLA, ADA, Paid Family Leave, Extended Illness, and Long Term Disability. This role requires a strategic thinker with a deep understanding of applicable leave laws, as well as a proactive approach to managing benefits-related processes, exceptional communication skills, and a commitment to providing excellent service to employees.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Assist in administration of CHS employee benefit programs, such as medical, dental, ancillary benefits (life and accidental death & dismemberment insurance), other voluntary benefits, COBRA, flexible spending programs plans and Workers Compensation.
• Assist with administration of the FMLA and ADA leave processes, including employee communication, documentation, and coordination with relevant stakeholders.
• Serve as a contact for CHS benefits-related leave programs health, welfare and leave (FMLA, ADA, and Paid Family Leave), issues and questions.
• Ensure compliance with federal and state FMLA, ADA and PFL regulations and provide guidance to employees and managers.
• Stay current on relevant state regulations and ensure benefits compliance in all locations of operation.
• Coordinate administration and enrollment in benefits programs.
• Collaborate with HR and safety teams to implement preventive measures and improve workplace safety.
• Collaborate with HR and management to provide reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities.
• Collaborate to conduct periodic training for HR and managers on leave compliance.
• Generate benefits reports CHS management, as requested.
• Verify and pay monthly employee leave benefits premiums and invoices; Track employee benefits-related costs and claim activities.
• Maintain national level knowledge about health, welfare and leave program, if necessary.
• Collaborate with vendors to resolve benefits-related issues and ensure smooth plan administration.
• Assist in the coordination of benefits open enrollment process.
• Assist in processing of Covid-19 pay for employees per NY or other state regulations, as needed.
• Participate in the design and implementation of new benefits programs.
• Handles special HR projects and all other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS:

• Associates or Bachelor's Degree in Business, Human Resources, Finance or a related field; or 3 years equivalent combination of education, work experience, and relevant HR-related certifications.
• Minimum 5 years progressive experience in human resources, including at least 3 years administering and/or supporting health, welfare and leave management programs as such FMLA, Paid Family Leave, ADA and/or Workers Compensation, with multi-state administration experience, preferred.
• Benefits or HR certifications (e.g. CEBS, PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP) or relevant certifications preferred.
• Thorough understanding of federal and state regulations related to leave management programs.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Skills, Knowledge, & Abilities:

• Ability to analyze complex data and summarize it in easily understandable form.
• Strong knowledge and understanding of insurance regulations, plan designs and third-party record keeping/administration required.
• Familiarity with COBRA, HIPAA, ERISA, FMLA, ADA, ACA and related state and federal regulations.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality, to ensure trust and compliance with Health Insurance Portability Accountability Act (HIPAA).
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-volume environment, and to maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective positive working relationships with co-workers and CHS team members.
• Ability to apply proactive and innovative solutions to everyday challenges.
• Working knowledge of all applicable employment laws.
• Excellent oral and written communications skills.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

Work location: Hybrid

Physical Nature of the Job:

Repetitive use of hands and fingers, such as use of computer mouse and keyboard. May require use of lifting and carrying light loads up to 10 pounds. Sitting and/or standing for long periods of time.

Salary Range: $65,000 to $80,000.

Cayuga Health System Commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Cayuga Health System commits to treating all people with dignity so that everyone who comes to us is safe, cared for, and respected. We will support the growth of our employees and the health of our community by embracing the rich diversity of social and cultural identities, needs, and life circumstances of all people. We strive to recognize and overcome personal biases and systemic policies that marginalize others and contribute to disparities in healthcare access, equitable care, and good health outcomes.