Job Description
Chris Preble from Robert Half is working with an Ithaca area client of his that is looking to hire an HR Generalist - Benefits Administrator. This organization has excellent benefits, terrific work life balance and an opportunity to grow.
Position Objective
The HR Generalist – Benefits Specialist is a detail-oriented human resources professional with a primary focus on employee benefits administration and employee support. This role is well suited for someone with a solid HR foundation who is interested in further developing expertise in benefits. The organization is committed to training and supporting the successful candidate, providing the tools and guidance needed to grow into the role while contributing meaningfully to employee engagement, retention, and overall organizational effectiveness.
Key Responsibilities
A. Benefits Administration (Primary Focus)
- Support the administration of health, dental, vision, life insurance, and flexible spending programs, including new hire enrollments, eligibility changes, and ongoing employee support.
- Process benefits elections and updates within HRIS and payroll systems with accuracy and attention to detail.
- Serve as an accessible point of contact for employee benefits questions, escalating complex issues as needed.
- Partner with internal teams and external benefits providers to ensure timely resolution of benefits-related inquiries.
- Assist with open enrollment activities, employee communications, and documentation.
- Support the preparation and maintenance of benefits compliance documentation and reporting.
B. Leave Management & Workers’ Compensation
- Assist with the administration of workers’ compensation claims, including injury reporting and documentation.
- Support employees with disability, FMLA, and other protected leave requests under the guidance of HR leadership.
- Track leave usage and coordinate information with payroll and benefits systems.
C. Retirement Plan Support
- Assist with employee education and enrollment for retirement plan offerings.
- Support employees with contribution changes, beneficiary updates, and basic plan inquiries.
- Coordinate with plan providers to resolve routine questions and requests.
D. Payroll & Compensation Support
- Assist with processing compensation changes within HRIS/payroll systems.
- Support periodic payroll updates as directed.
E. Employee Relations
- Serve as a first point of contact for employee questions and concerns, providing guidance and directing issues appropriately.
• Some experience in benefits administration
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills for liaising with employees and external providers.