Benefits Specialist (Hybrid)

Description Location: Hybrid Role- must live near Clifton Park/Saratoga Springs, NY, or South Burlington/Williston, VT Reports To: Director of People & Experience Employment Type: Full-Time Salary Range: $64,000 - $67,086 We're looking for an experienced Benefits Specialist to oversee the administration of employee benefit programs across four retail locations. This role is the primary point of contact for employees regarding benefits and ensures accurate administration, compliance, and a positive employee experience. What We're Looking For Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field, or equivalent experience. 5+ years of progressive HR generalist experience. Strong knowledge of HR practices, employment law, and employee relations. Experience supporting employees throughout the full employee lifecycle. Excellent interpersonal, communication, and conflict-resolution skills. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail. Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion. Experience working in a fast-paced, evolving environment. What You'll Do Administer medical, dental, vision, disability, life insurance, and 401(k) benefits. Process enrollments, changes, qualifying life events, and terminations. Coordinate new hire benefits orientation and annual open enrollment. Partner with benefit brokers, carriers, and vendors on renewals and employee support. Ensure compliance with ERISA, ACA, COBRA, HIPAA, and other applicable regulations. Maintain benefit records, reporting, and Form 5500 documentation. Support leave administration and assist with benefits-related reporting and audits. Identify opportunities to improve benefits processes and employee experience. Why Join Us? You'll have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the staff experience while helping shape the future of our organization. We value collaboration, continuous improvement, and creating a workplace where people can do their best work and grow their careers. Requirements Preferred Qualifications: SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, PHR, or SPHR certification. Experience supporting a growing organization. Familiarity with HRIS platforms and people analytics. Bachelor's degree in HR, Business, or a related field preferred. 3+ years of benefits administration experience, preferably in a multi-location organization. Strong knowledge of employee benefits, 401(k) administration, and benefits compliance. Experience with HRIS/payroll systems and intermediate to advanced Excel skills. Excellent communication, organization, and customer service skills. Ability to maintain confidentiality and manage multiple priorities.