Human Resources Benefits Partner

Job Description

At Indian River State College, we believe employee well-being is foundational to a thriving campus community. We are seeking a knowledgeable, service-driven Benefits Partner who combines technical expertise with empathy, precision, and a passion for helping people navigate life's important moments.

In this role, you will serve as the primary resource for employee health, welfare, and retirement programs while helping shape a benefits experience that is clear, supportive, and people-centered. From enrollment and compliance to wellness initiatives and strategic process improvements, you will play a key role in strengthening how The River supports employees across every stage of their journey.

This position is ideal for a professional who enjoys solving complex challenges, simplifying processes, building trusted relationships, and contributing to a forward-thinking HR team focused on innovation and service excellence.

About Us

Indian River State College is a leading public institution located on Florida's Treasure Coast, serving students across multiple campuses in four counties. We are dedicated to academic excellence, innovation, and community engagement, offering associate and bachelor's degrees, workforce training, and continuing education programs.

At The River, we believe every student's and employee's story matters. We value the different perspectives, experiences, and talents that come together on our campuses, creating a learning environment and workplace that's supportive, inclusive, and inspiring. With flexible options online, on campus, and hybrid, we design learning experiences that meet students where they are and prepare them for real-world success. Programs like the Promise Program open doors by providing eligible students with tuition-free access, ensuring every learner has the opportunity to thrive.

Why Join the River

When you join Indian River State College, you become part of a forward-thinking and supportive community where your work truly matters. Your role is more than a job; it's an opportunity to shape the future, uplift students, and be part of a mission-driven college that is changing lives every day.

What We Offer

At Indian River State College, we value the well-being and professional growth of our employees. Our comprehensive benefits package includes:

• Health & Wellness: Medical, dental, vision, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, supplemental plans, and access to our Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Affordable Coverage: PPO/HMO options starting at just $50/month for individual coverage and $180/month for family coverage.
• Retirement Security: Participation in the Florida Retirement System (FRS), plus tax-deferred annuities and Roth 403(b) options.
• Time for You: Generous paid vacation, personal, and sick leave to support work-life balance.
• Perks & Discounts: Reduced rates on services and tickets to local attractions.
• Growth & Development: Professional development programs, leadership training, and opportunities to advance your career.

JOB SUMMARY:

Under general direction, this position serves as the primary resource for all health, welfare, and retirement programs, combining the precision of compliance expertise with the empathy of exceptional service delivery. Ensures employees are supported through comprehensive benefits administration and strategic program design Responsible for overseeing the full lifecycle of employee benefits-from enrollment and administration to vendor management and regulatory compliance-while contributing to the broader HR transformation that positions The River as a model of innovation and employee well-being. Simplifies complex processes, leverage data for informed decision-making, and ensure every employee feels supported through life's milestones and transitions.

SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Benefits Program Administration & Delivery

• Oversee and administer comprehensive employee benefits programs including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term and long-term disability, flexible spending accounts (FSA), health savings accounts (HSA), and supplemental insurance plans
• Manage all aspects of the Florida Retirement System (FRS) participation including pension and investment plan options, beneficiary designations, and retirement counseling
• Administer tax-deferred annuity programs and Roth 403(b) retirement savings options
• Serve as primary point of contact for employee benefits inquiries, providing accurate, timely, and empathetic guidance through phone, email, virtual meetings, and in-person consultations
• Process benefits enrollments, changes, and terminations with precision and attention to detail
• Coordinate leave of absence programs including FMLA, ADA accommodations, workers' compensation, personal leave, and other approved absences
• Partner with Payroll to ensure accurate benefits deductions, premium reconciliations, and timely processing of payroll-related benefits changes
• Maintain confidential employee benefits records and documentation in HRIS system with highest standards of data integrity
• Resolve benefits-related issues and discrepancies in partnership with carriers, vendors, and third-party administrators
• Provide benefits support during employee onboarding to ensure seamless integration into coverage programs

Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure full compliance with all federal and state regulations governing employee benefits including ACA (Affordable Care Act), HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act), COBRA (Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act), FMLA (Family and Medical Leave Act), ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act), ERISA (Employee Retirement Income Security Act), and Section 125 cafeteria plans
• Prepare, file, and maintain all required government reporting including ACA Forms 1094-C and 1095-C, 5500 series filings, Summary Annual Reports, and other regulatory submissions
• Administer COBRA continuation coverage including notifications, elections, premium billing, and terminations in compliance with federal guidelines
• Conduct regular audits of benefits administration processes, enrollment data, and vendor performance to identify and resolve discrepancies
• Maintain current knowledge of legislative changes affecting benefits programs and recommend policy updates to ensure ongoing compliance
• Develop and maintain Summary Plan Descriptions (SPDs), plan documents, and employee communications materials that meet disclosure requirements
• Manage workers' compensation claims process in coordination with risk management, ensuring timely reporting and proper documentation
• Protect employee confidentiality and sensitive health information in accordance with HIPAA privacy and security rules
• Coordinate benefits-related aspects of audits conducted by internal and external auditors
• Maintain compliance calendars and tickler systems to ensure all deadlines are met

Employee Experience & Communication

• Redesign and enhance benefits touchpoints throughout the employee lifecycle including new hire onboarding, open enrollment, qualifying life events, and retirement transitions
• Plan, coordinate, and execute annual open enrollment process including timeline development, communication strategy, benefits fair coordination, educational sessions, and enrollment support
• Develop and deliver benefits education programs, presentations, and workshops that translate complex benefit concepts into clear, accessible, actionable information for diverse employee populations
• Create engaging benefits communication materials including guides, FAQs, videos, infographics, newsletters, and digital content that promote understanding and utilization
• Serve as trusted advisor to employees during critical life events such as marriage, birth/adoption, illness, disability, and retirement
• Conduct one-on-one benefits counseling sessions to help employees make informed decisions about coverage options based on individual and family needs
• Partner with vendors to host educational webinars, wellness seminars, and benefits information sessions
• Respond to benefits inquiries with empathy, patience, and a service-oriented mindset that reflects The River's commitment to employee well-being
• Gather and analyze employee feedback on benefits programs and use insights to drive continuous improvement
• Maintain benefits information on employee self-service portals and internal websites with current, accurate content

Wellness & Strategic Initiatives

• Collaborate with internal partners and external vendors to design, implement, and promote wellness programs that strengthen employee engagement, productivity, and overall health
• Develop and execute wellness campaigns focused on preventive care, health screenings, mental health awareness, financial wellness, and work-life balance
• Partner with Employee Assistance Program (EAP) provider to promote utilization of counseling, work-life, and well-being resources
• Analyze participation trends in wellness initiatives and use data to refine program offerings and communication strategies
• Explore innovative benefits solutions and emerging trends in employee well-being including mental health support, family care benefits, and holistic wellness approaches
• Support diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives by ensuring benefits programs are accessible, equitable, and responsive to diverse employee needs
• Participate in benefits benchmarking studies and market surveys to assess competitiveness of The River's benefits offerings
• Contribute to vendor selection processes by evaluating proposals, conducting due diligence, and making recommendations aligned with employee needs and institutional goals

Data Analysis & Process Improvement

• Utilize HRIS and analytics tools to track enrollment trends, participation rates, claims experience, and program costs
• Generate regular reports and dashboards that provide insights into benefits utilization, cost drivers, and opportunities for improvement
• Identify opportunities to digitize manual workflows, reduce administrative friction, and enhance service speed and accuracy through automation and system optimization
• Partner with HR Operations and HRIS teams to streamline benefits processes and improve data integration across systems
• Conduct cost-benefit analyses to evaluate program effectiveness and return on investment
• Develop key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics to measure benefits program success and employee satisfaction
• Lead or participate in process improvement initiatives that align with The River's HR transformation goals
• Document standard operating procedures (SOPs) for benefits administration processes to ensure consistency and knowledge transfer

Vendor & Broker Management

• Serve as primary liaison with benefits brokers, insurance carriers, third-party administrators, and other benefits vendors
• Coordinate vendor meetings, contract renewals, and performance reviews
• Ensure service level agreements (SLAs) are met and hold vendors accountable for quality service delivery
• Facilitate resolution of vendor-related issues and escalate concerns when necessary
• Participate in annual renewal process including rate negotiations, plan design reviews, and carrier evaluations
• Stay informed about vendor product enhancements, technology updates, and service improvements that could benefit The River

Other related Duties and responsibilities as assigned

• Perform other duties as assigned that align with The River's HR transformation and deliver value to employees
• Participate in HR team meetings, projects, and initiatives as needed
• Provide backup support for other HR functions during peak periods or staff absences
• Represent HR and benefits function on institutional committees and task forces

QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE AND SKILL REQUIREMENTS:

Required:

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Healthcare Administration, Risk Management, or related field
• Minimum 4+ years of progressive experience in HR benefits administration or employee benefits management
• Demonstrated experience administering health and welfare benefits in a complex or multi-site organization
• Proven track record managing compliance requirements for ACA, HIPAA, COBRA, FMLA, ADA, and ERISA
• Experience with HRIS systems and benefits administration platforms

Preferred:

• Master's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field
• Professional certification such as PHR (Professional in Human Resources), SHRM-CP (Society for Human Resource Management - Certified Professional), CEBS (Certified Employee Benefits Specialist), or CBP (Certified Benefits Professional)
• Experience in higher education or public sector environment
• Background with Florida Retirement System (FRS) administration
• Experience with Workday or ADP HRIS platforms

Knowledge Requirements

• Comprehensive understanding of federal and state benefits laws and regulations including ACA, HIPAA, COBRA, FMLA, ADA, ERISA, Section 125, and Medicare coordination
• In-depth knowledge of health and welfare benefits plan design including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and voluntary benefits
• Thorough understanding of defined benefit and defined contribution retirement programs including pension plans, 403(b), 457, and IRA options
• Knowledge of leave administration including FMLA, ADA interactive process, workers' compensation, and state-specific leave laws
• Familiarity with benefits vendor landscape, broker services, and third-party administrator capabilities
• Understanding of benefits cost structures, premium rating methodologies, and cost containment strategies
• Knowledge of wellness program design and population health management principles
• Awareness of benefits technology including enrollment platforms, decision support tools, and employee self-service applications
• Understanding of data privacy requirements and confidentiality protocols for handling sensitive employee information

Skill and Requirements

Core Competencies:

• Benefits Expertise: Deep technical knowledge of benefits administration, regulatory compliance, and plan design with ability to navigate complex scenarios and provide authoritative guidance
• Communication Excellence: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills with ability to translate technical benefits terminology and complex regulations into clear, accessible language for diverse audiences
• Analytical & Problem-Solving: Strong analytical capabilities with proficiency in data analysis, trend identification, and using insights to drive decision-making and process improvements
• Customer Service Orientation: Genuine commitment to service excellence with empathy, patience, and ability to support employees through sensitive personal situations
• Attention to Detail: Meticulous approach to benefits administration with focus on accuracy, compliance, and quality in all work products
• Technology Proficiency: Advanced skills with HRIS systems (Workday, ADP), Microsoft Office Suite (especially Excel for data analysis), benefits administration platforms, and ability to learn new systems quickly
• Project Management: Ability to manage complex projects such as open enrollment, plan implementations, and vendor transitions from planning through execution
• Compliance Management: Systematic approach to maintaining compliance with ability to track multiple deadlines, requirements, and regulatory changes simultaneously
• Relationship Building: Skilled at building trust and credibility with employees, vendors, HR colleagues, and cross-functional partners
• Organizational Skills: Ability to manage competing priorities, meet deadlines, and maintain composure during high-volume periods

Personal Attributes:

• Ownership Mindset: Takes personal accountability for outcomes and goes above and beyond to ensure employees are well-served
• Empathy & Compassion: Approaches benefits work with genuine care for employee well-being and understanding of how benefits impact people's lives
• Curiosity & Learning Orientation: Stays current on benefits trends, seeks to understand root causes, and continuously looks for ways to improve
• Integrity & Discretion: Maintains highest ethical standards and protects confidential employee information with unwavering commitment to privacy
• Adaptability: Flexible and resilient in face of changing regulations, organizational needs, and evolving employee expectations
• Collaboration: Team player who works effectively across HR and with other departments to achieve shared goals
• Innovation Mindset: Willing to challenge status quo, embrace new technologies, and champion creative solutions to benefits challenges
• Cultural Competence: Sensitive to diverse employee populations and committed to ensuring equitable access to benefits information and programs

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

This position classifies the physical exertion requirements as sedentary work involving lifting no more than 25 pounds at a time and occasionally lifting or carrying articles like docket files, ledgers, and small tools. Although a sedentary job is defined as one which involves sitting, a certain amount of walking and standing is often necessary in carrying out job duties. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required occasionally, and other sedentary criteria are met.

• Travel: Occasional travel between campus locations and to off-site meetings, conferences, or training sessions as needed
• Schedule Flexibility: Ability to work extended hours during peak periods such as open enrollment, benefit plan year transitions, and end-of-year reporting deadlines

ADDITIONAL EXPECTATIONS:

Requirements are representative of minimum levels of knowledge, skills and/or abilities. To perform this job successfully, the employee must possess the abilities or aptitudes to perform each duty proficiently. Additionally, all employees of the College are expected to maintain professional standards of communication, able to learn and apply new technology, and abide by all policies and procedures. Continued employment remains on an "at-will" basis.

This description is intended to indicate typical kinds of tasks and levels of work difficulty that will be required of positions given this title and shall not be construed as declaring every specific duty and responsibility of the particular position. This job description is not intended to be a contract for employment, and the employer reserves the right to make any necessary revisions to the job description at any time without notice.

Classification

Staff

Supervisory

No

FLSA Exempt

Yes

Employment Type

Regular

Compensation and Application Deadline

The starting pay range is $51,219.90. All salary calculations start at the minimum salary and will be based on the candidate''s education and experience | Open until filled.