PURPOSE OF POSITION: The Leave + Benefits Specialist is responsible for administrating the Company’s employee benefits and leave of absence programs while delivering exceptional customer service to employees and managers. This position serves as the primary point of contact for benefits enrollment, leave administration, accommodations, and employee education, ensuring compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws.
These functions are performed in accordance with the mission, core values, and purposes of Ideal Option. JOB
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- The following functions have been determined by Ideal Option to be essential to the successful performance of this position which includes but is not limited to: Leave Administration: Administer all employee leave programs including: Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) State Paid Family and Medical Leave programs Pregnancy and parental leave Military leave Jury duty or other statutory leaves Review medical certifications and supporting documentation for completeness.
- Coordinate the interactive process for workplace accommodations in partnership with HR leadership.
- Prepare leave designation notices, approval and denial letters, accommodation documentation, and return-to-work communications.
- Track leave balances, return-to-work dates, and required recertifications.
- Coordinate with Payroll regarding leave pay, benefit deductions, premium payments, and timekeeping.
- Maintain leave tracking logs and ensure timely follow-up throughout each leave.
- Communicate regularly with employees and managers regarding leave expectations, documentation, and next steps.
- Benefits Administration: Administrator employee benefit programs including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability, HSA, and retirement plans.
- Process new hire enrollments, qualifying life events, terminations, and annual Open Enrollment.
- Maintain accurate employee benefit records in Paylocity/B-swift, benefits administration platforms, and carrier portals.
- Coordinate with insurance carriers and vendors to resolve eligibility, enrollment, and claims issues.
- Prepare and distribute benefit communications throughout the year.
- Assist with annual Open Enrollment planning, employee meetings, and educational materials.
- Support ACA reporting, benefit audits, and other compliance initiatives.
- Compliance + HR Support Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local leave and benefits regulations.
- Maintain confidential employee medical and benefits records.
- Monitor legislative changes affecting benefits and leave administration.
- Assist with HR audits and documentation requests.
- Develop and maintain SOPs, templates, and employee resources related to benefits and leave.
- Recommend process improvements that enhance efficiency and employee experience.
- Provide general HR support, including responding to employee inquiries, updating employee records, and supporting team initiatives.
- Comply with national PHI laws including HIPAA and 42 CFR Part 2.
- Maintain confidentiality of sensitive organizational information.
- Maintain continually sustained attendance.
- Performs other projects and duties as assigned.
