Job Summary:

We are seeking a skilled and knowledgeable Benefits Consultant II to manage and support the administration of employee benefits programs. The ideal candidate will possess strong customer service skills, advanced Excel proficiency, and direct experience in pharmacy benefits (PBM) is a significant plus. This role will also contribute to the strategic design, compliance oversight, and continuous improvement of benefits programs that attract and retain a high-performing workforce.

Pay Range: $45 - $52 an hr.

Key Responsibilities:

• Administer and manage employee benefit programs including medical, dental, vision, retirement, life insurance, disability, leave of absence, and more.

• Support the design and implementation of benefits strategies, education campaigns, and vendor transitions to ensure employee understanding and operational effectiveness.

• Act as a primary point of contact for vendors, third-party administrators, and internal HR teams (PeoplePlace) regarding benefits eligibility, policies, and escalations.

• Serve as the escalation point for complex employee concerns, appeals, and inquiries.

• Participate in M&A benefits integration processes.

• Evaluate and improve existing processes to deliver cost-effective, employee-centric benefits solutions.

• Ensure benefits programs remain compliant with ERISA, FMLA, HIPAA, PBGC, and other federal/state regulations.

• Prepare for year-end compliance testing and regulatory reporting.

• Support RFPs, monitor vendor contracts, and provide backup for other benefit programs as needed.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree required.

• 3+ years of experience in benefits administration or related HR function.

• Proven customer service and communication skills.

• Direct experience or exposure to Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBM) is a major plus.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS) or GBA designation preferred.

• Experience working with HRIS systems such as PeopleSoft.

• Knowledge of federal benefits-related regulations including ERISA, HIPAA, ADAAA, FMLA, and PBGC.

• Project management experience and familiarity with change management practices.

Key Success Factors:

• Ability to work independently and make sound decisions with minimal supervision.

• Strong problem-solving skills and analytical thinking.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to influence and advise employees at all levels.

• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and accuracy.

• Team player with a collaborative mindset.