Benefits Specialist

Description At Cunningham Children’s Home, we are dedicated to providing a safe, supportive space where young people can learn, heal, and grow. We’re seeking a detail-oriented and compassionate Benefits Specialist to join our Human Resources team. The Benefits Specialist will play a key role in supporting our employees by administering benefits, as well as leave and workers comp programs. What We’re Looking For Detail-oriented and organized – accurate with HRIS, benefit details and compliance, and reporting deadlines. Knowledgeable in benefits and employment law – understands FMLA, ADA, ACA, OSHA, and workers’ compensation. Strong communicator – approachable, clear when explaining benefits and leave policies, and supportive with employees. Collaborative team player – works well with HR, accounting, supervisors, and external vendors. Above all, the Benefits Specialist will help carry out our HR team mission: “People are our purpose. We support and empower all to create hope.” Key Responsibilities Benefits Administration: Manage all aspects of employee benefits, including enrollments, open enrollment, payroll coordination, and compliance with regulations. 401(k) & Compliance: Oversee the agency’s 401(k) plan, including audits, plan testing, and 5500 filings. Employee Leaves: Assist with leave requests while ensuring compliance with policies, FMLA, and related regulations. Workers' Compensation: Manage claims and return-to-work procedures. Compliance & Reporting: Stay current on laws related to benefits, leaves, workers’ compensation, and ensure regulatory compliance. Qualifications Associate’s degree in HR or related field (equivalent experience/certifications may substitute). Minimum 2 years of HR and/or benefits administration experience. SHRM or HRCI certification preferred. Job Type Benefits Specialist: Full-time, Monday–Friday, 8-hour shift, in-person. Benefits 401(k) with up to 6% employer match Medical, dental, and vision insurance Employee assistance program Life insurance Holiday pay and paid time off Flexible Spending Account (FSA) & Dependent Care Assistance (DCA) Employee wellness program Short-term disability, accident, and critical illness coverage Referral program Relocation assistance Qualifications Skills Behaviors : Motivations : Education Preferred Associates or better in Human Resource Administration or related field. Experience Required 2 years: Human resources and/or benefits administration experience Preferred SHRM or HRCI Certification Licenses & Certifications Preferred IL Drivers License