Benefits Specialist & Leave Administration

Job Summary

The Benefits Specialist will manage all aspects of leave administration. This individual will play a key role in supporting employees with benefits programs, ensuring compliance with regulations, and providing excellent customer service regarding benefits and leave-related inquiries. The role supports general benefits questions, enrollment, claims, and coordinating various leave programs, including FMLA, parental leave and paid/unpaid leave. This position will work closely with Business Managers, supervisors, and employees throughout the Archdiocese employers to ensure accurate and comprehensive communication and leave management.

Job Responsibilities

Leave Administration:

· Act as the primary point of contact for employees applying for and using leave, including educating employees on available leave options

· Administer and manage all employee leave programs, including FMLA, long-term disability, paid/unpaid leave

· Understand and be able to explain the impact of paid/unpaid leave on benefits coverage and ensure appropriate benefit coverage working with the employee

· Develop and maintain accurate records for all leave cases, including documentation and certifications, and ensure all paperwork is filed correctly

· Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local leave laws, including FMLA, ADA, and others

· Process and track leave requests in the HRIS system and ensure timely communication with employees and supervisors regarding leave status

· Monitor and manage leave timelines to ensure accurate reporting and compliance with policies

· Develop and maintain FMLA training materials and Quick Reference Guides to support the leave process

Benefits Administration:

· Administer employee benefits programs including health, dental, vision, life insurance, and retirement plans per resources provided

· Act as a point of contact for benefits-related inquiries, providing employees with information and guidance on benefits options

· Support benefits enrollment, changes, and terminations, ensuring accuracy and compliance in the HRIS system and also with regulations

· Collaborate with insurance providers and brokers to resolve claims and benefits issues and resolve carrier file issues as needed

· Support Business Managers and other administrative roles throughout the Archdiocese with benefits processes

General Benefits support

· Provide support for the Benefits Committee, assisting with minutes and scheduling

· Maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive employee information with discretion

· Generate reports on benefits utilization, leave activity, and other key metrics for HR leadership

· Assist with compliance audits and ensure all benefit and leave-related policies are in line with legal and regulatory requirements

· Maintain accurate leave and benefits resources on the Benefits webpage and in print form

· Support HR with other projects as needed, including wellness programs and benefits communications.

· Stay up-to-date with benefits trends, legal requirements, and changes in laws affecting employee benefits

Job Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• 2+ years of experience in HR or HRIS.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).