Human Resources Benefits Specialist

Job DetailsJob Location: Head Quarters - Chattanooga, TN 37404Position Type: Full TimeEducation Level: 4 Year DegreeSalary Range: $18.00 - $20.00 HourlyTravel Percentage: NoneJob Shift: MorningJob Category: Human ResourcesJob Title: Benefits Specialist Reports To: Director of Human Resources FLSA Status: Hourly, non-exempt, full-time, Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Organization: Orange Grove Center is committed to supporting people with intellectual and developmental (IDD) disabilities in the achievement of meaningful, healthy lives. Our mission is “to recognize, support, and celebrate the qualities of the individual” and this is at the forefront of every organizational decision.   Position Summary: The Benefits Specialist is responsible for facilitating employee benefits and serves as the primary point of contact for employees regarding benefit inquiries and works closely with vendors, brokers, and HR leadership to deliver high-quality benefit services. Working Conditions: Standard office environment with occasional travel to meetings, vendor sites, or benefits fairs. May require extended hours during open enrollment or special projects.   Key Responsibilities: General · Manage the day-to-day administration of health, dental, vision, life, disability, retirement, and other voluntary benefit programs. · Oversee open enrollment processes, including communication, system setup, employee education, and vendor coordination. · Process and verify enrollments, changes, and terminations in HRIS and with benefit providers. · Ensure timely and accurate billing, reconciliation, and payment of premiums.   Insurance Oversight · Coordinate with insurance carriers, brokers, and third-party administrators to ensure smooth delivery of services. · Analyze claims and utilization data to recommend plan design improvements and cost-containment strategies. · Investigate and resolve escalated employee insurance or benefit-related issues.   Compliance & Reporting · Ensure compliance with ERISA, ACA, HIPAA, COBRA, and other federal and state regulations. · Maintain required reporting and documentation, including annual filings · Stay current on legislative changes affecting benefits and insurance programs. · Assist with audits and provide reports to HR leadership as needed. · Prode ongoing employee support & communication · Serve as a resource for employees by providing guidance on benefit plans, claims, and enrollment procedures. · Develop and deliver employee education materials, FAQs, and presentations regarding benefit options. · Always maintain confidentiality of sensitive employee information.   Strategic Planning · Collaborate with HR leadership to evaluate benefit offerings for competitiveness and alignment with organizational objectives. · Participate in renewal negotiations and vendor selection. · Monitor trends in employee benefits and recommend enhancements to support recruitment and retention. Compensation and Benefits: · Competitive wages commensurate with experience · Health, dental, and vision insurance available · 401(k) Safe Harbor retirement plan with 4% match · Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays · Professional development support QualificationsQualifications: Preferred. · Benefit experience or degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field. · 3+ years of progressive experience in employee benefits and insurance administration. · Strong knowledge of employee benefits, insurance programs, and regulatory requirements. · Proficiency in HRIS, benefits administration platforms, and Microsoft Office Suite. · Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and negotiation skills. · Ability to manage multiple priorities with attention to detail. · Commitment to the mission and values of Orange Grove Center. · Good overall physical health and personal stamina. A physical examination, including TB skin test or chest x-ray is required prior to employment. · Compliance with Drug Free Workplace policy.   Preferred · Professional certification, such as CEBS, PHR, SPHR, or SHRM-CP/SCP · Experience working in or with nonprofit or mission-driven organizations. · Familiarity with HRIS systems and analytics tools.