Benefits Specialist

Job Title: Benefits Specialist (Hybrid)

Location: Chicago, IL

Industry: Higher Education

Pay: $26.00 - $35.00 per hour

About Our Client:

Addison Group is hiring on behalf of our client, a dynamic private institution in Chicago known for its contributions to arts and communications education. This client provides a supportive, collaborative environment where innovative thinking and student success are at the forefront.

Job Description:

The Benefits Specialist will support the day-to-day administration of employee benefits, ensuring compliance with regulations, addressing employee inquiries, and providing resources for benefits-related topics. This role is integral to enhancing the employee experience and maintaining benefit programs effectively, with responsibilities including FMLA, workers’ compensation, tuition benefits, and the annual open enrollment process.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide comprehensive support to employees on benefit options, enrollment, and changes.
• Oversee benefit data entry and updates within BenAdmin/PeopleSoft systems.
• Ensure data accuracy and compliance within HRIS systems and support ACA reporting.
• Assist with new hire orientations and the transition process for departing employees.
• Review FMLA and disability requests for completeness, adhering to legal standards.
• Manage various leave and time-off programs, including caregiver and military leave.
• Track and report workers’ compensation claims, and administer tuition benefits.
• Conduct monthly health plan audits and collaborate with benefits vendors for issue resolution.
• Maintain up-to-date benefit materials on internal platforms and support the preparation of required reports.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in HR or a related field and 3+ years of benefits experience.
• Proficiency in MS Excel, including pivot tables and VLOOKUPs; PeopleSoft experience is a plus.
• Familiarity with benefits regulations and compliance, including ERISA, COBRA, FMLA, ADA, and ACA.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Effective communication skills with a commitment to confidentiality and professionalism.

Additional Details:

• Schedule: Monday-Friday, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm with a 1-hour lunch break.
• Work Arrangement: Hybrid (2 days in-office, Tuesdays a must; 3 days remote)
• Contract Type: Temporary, with the potential for permanent placement.

Perks:

• Opportunity to work in a vibrant higher education setting with a creative focus.
• Potential for contract-to-hire transition.
• Business casual dress code.
• Laptop and necessary equipment provided.

Addison Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Addison Group provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. Addison Group complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. Reasonable accommodation is available for qualified individuals with disabilities, upon request.