Employee Benefits Specialist

 ***HOURLY PAY RATE DEPENDS ON EXPERIENCE AND IS GREATER THAN RANGE SHOWN

****This role is open to W-2 and c2c candidates

****Benefits may be available to those who qualify

State of Rhode Island - Department of Administration (DOA) - Office of Employee Benefits (EOB)

Job Posting # 127814

***18-month contract – Extensions possible

The Benefits Specialist reports to the Administrator, Operations Management in the Employee Benefits Unit and assists in the administration and maintenance of a variety of employee benefits programs These programs include medical, dental, vision insurance; group life; prepaid legal; short-term disability; cancer care; dependent care; flexible benefits; deferred compensation; COBRA, and other programs.

The person in this role should have in-depth knowledge of employee benefits and will ensure program compliance with the federal tax laws and state regulations impacting benefits programs.  The incumbent will oversee all aspects of the state’s employee benefit programs including developing, recommending, and manage the various benefits and wellness programs and systems. He/she will conduct surveys as needed, researching, and recommending new or modified programs ensuring maximum coverage and value.  This person will act as a direct contact with insurers, vendors, agency HR representatives, employees, and retirees for service issues, problem resolution, and technical support.

The incumbent will also prepare correspondence including letters, rate charts, and forms for the Office of Employee benefits including COBRA, deferred compensation, life, and health benefits rate schedules (active and retirees) for distribution to state agencies.

The person in this position must remain current on trends and regulations related to the benefits industry and demonstrate progressively more responsible experience administering such programs.  In addition, the successful candidate will demonstrate strong attention to detail, and possess working knowledge of and the ability to interpret laws, rules, and regulations governing the administration and maintenance of employee benefit programs.

The successful candidate will have an associate’s degree in Human Resources, or a related field, and three years’ experience as an employee benefits administrator, with strong verbal and written communication skills.  Knowledge of benefits program administration in the public sector is preferable.  This is a temporary position, with an estimated duration of 18-months, that is on-site in Providence, RI.