Sr. Benefits Analyst

Overview 

The Senior Benefits Analyst is responsible for the analysis, administration, and continuous improvement of employee benefits programs, including health, welfare, retirement, absence, and voluntary benefits for the US and Canada. This role partners closely with HR leadership, HRIS, payroll, vendors, brokers, and internal stakeholders to ensure programs are competitive, compliant, cost-effective, and aligned with organizational goals. The Senior Benefits Analyst also provides subject matter expertise, data insights, and strategic recommendations to enhance employee experience. 

US and Canada Benefits Administration & Strategy 

• Manage and administer all US and Canada employee benefit programs, including medical, dental, vision, savings and spending accounts, life insurance, disability, retirement, absence, and wellness initiatives 

• Evaluate current benefits offerings and recommend enhancements based on market trends, utilization data, and employee needs 

• Support benefits strategy development and implementation aligned with organizational objectives 

Data Analysis & Reporting 

• Analyze benefits data (enrollment, claims, utilization, and cost trends) to identify opportunities for cost savings and program improvements 

• Develop reports, dashboards, and executive summaries to support decision-making 

• Conduct benchmarking studies to ensure competitiveness in the market 

• Conduct reconciliations and system audits 

Vendor Management 

• Act as primary liaison with benefits vendors, brokers, and consultants 

• Monitor vendor performance and service levels; resolve escalated issues 

• Participate in vendor selection, implementations, RFP processes, and contract negotiations 

Compliance & Governance 

• Ensure compliance with US federal, state, and local regulations (e.g., ERISA, ACA, HIPAA, COBRA) and Canada regulations. 

• Prepare and review required US filings and disclosures (e.g., Form 5500, SPD, SAR, 1095-Cs) and Canada filings and disclosures. 

• Lead testing and audits (e.g., 401k, non-discrimination) 

• Stay current on regulatory changes and assess impact on benefits programs 

Open Enrollment & Communications 

• Lead and execute annual open enrollment processes 

• Develop and deliver clear, engaging employee communications and educational materials 

• Conduct benefits presentations and training sessions for employees and HR partners 

Cross-Functional Collaboration 

• Partner with HR, HRIS, Payroll, Finance, Vendor Risk, Information Security, and Legal teams to ensure seamless benefits operations 

• Support system integrations and HRIS updates related to benefits 

• Assist with mergers, acquisitions, and other organizational changes impacting benefits 

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Finance, or related field (or equivalent experience) 
• 5 - 8+ years of progressive experience in benefits administration or benefits analysis 

• Experience in a large or multi-state organization preferred 

• Strong knowledge of employee benefits programs and applicable laws/regulations. US required, Canada preferred 

• Advanced analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data and trends 

• Expertise in HRIS systems (e.g., Workday, UKG) and Excel (pivot tables, modeling). Workday expertise is highly preferred. 

• Excellent communication and presentation skills 

• Strong project management and organizational abilities 

• High attention to detail and problem-solving mindset 

• Adaptability and continuous improvement 

• Attention to detail and accountability 

Core Competencies 

• Strategic thinking and business alignment 

• Analytical mindset and data-driven decision-making 

• Compliance, governance, and risk orientation 

• Collaboration and stakeholder management 

• Customer-focused approach and employee experience mindset 

• Project execution and operational excellence 

Certifications, Licenses, and/or Registration 

• CEBS (Certified Employee Benefit Specialist), CBP, or similar certification 

Physical Demands and Work Environment  

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit and use hands to handle, touch or feel objects, tools, or controls.  The employee frequently is required to talk and hear.  The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.  The employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; reach with hands and arms.  The employee is rarely required to stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.  The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds.  Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, and the ability to adjust focus. 

EEOC  

Lakeview is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.  All aspects of consideration for employment and employment with the Company are governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other category protected by federal, state, or local law.