HR Benefits Specialist

Benefits Specialist

We are seeking a knowledgeable and detail-oriented Benefits Specialist to join our Human Resources team in Eugene, Oregon. This in-office role supports the administration of employee benefits, retirement programs, workers' compensation, and unemployment processes, working closely with the HR Director and HR Generalist to ensure accuracy, compliance, and consistent support for employees. This role requires a balance of strong organization and genuine empathy.

You will serve as a dependable point of contact for employees navigating benefits and claims, often during sensitive moments, while maintaining accurate records and communicating clearly with employees, leaders, and external partners. Success in this role comes from attention to detail, consistency, and a thoughtful, employee-centered approach. Candidates who bring strong emotional intelligence, professionalism, and a genuine desire to help others will thrive in this role.

Bilingual English/Spanish skills are a significant plus and highly valued.

• Administer all benefit enrollments, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and 401(k) plans, using Employee Navigator.
• Manage new hire enrollments, qualifying life event changes, annual open enrollment, and benefit terminations.
• Coordinate and support 401(k) open enrollment, including eligibility tracking, employee notices, and enrollment support.
• Serve as a resource for employees regarding benefit and retirement plan options, eligibility, and coverage.
• Ensure accurate and timely benefit data entry in Employee Navigator.
• Coordinate with benefits brokers, retirement plan providers, and carriers to resolve enrollment issues.
• Ensure all medical invoices are submitted to Accounts Payable in a timely manner.
• Reconcile medical invoices to verify accuracy and resolve discrepancies.
• Assist with benefits and retirement communications, notices, and employee education.

• Assist with workers' compensation claims from initial report through resolution.
• Coordinate with employees, managers, and insurance carriers as needed.
• Track claims documentation and support return-to-work or modified duty processes.
• Ensure timely reporting and accurate recordkeeping.

• Manage unemployment claims from receipt through resolution.
• Prepare and submit timely and accurate responses to unemployment agencies.
• Coordinate with managers and HR leadership to gather documentation and statements related to claims.
• Participate in unemployment audits, hearings, and appeals as needed, in partnership with the HR Director and HR Generalist.
• Track unemployment claims, determinations, and trends to support compliance and cost management.

• Assist with ensuring benefits, retirement, unemployment, leave, and workers' compensation practices align with applicable regulations and company policies.
• Support audits, reporting, and documentation related to benefits, 401(k), leave, workers' compensation, and unemployment.
• Partner with the HR Director and HR Generalist on process improvements and administrative support.
• Maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive employee information with discretion.

• 3-5 years of experience in benefits administration, HR support, or a related role.
• Basic understanding of employee benefits, retirement plans, and unemployment processes.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Clear and professional communication skills.
• Ability to manage sensitive and confidential information appropriately.
• Proficiency with HRIS systems and Microsoft Office.

• Experience assisting with medical leave, workers' compensation, or unemployment claims.
• Experience supporting 401(k) open enrollment.
• Willingness and ability to learn multi-state benefits, unemployment, and leave requirements.
• Experience working with benefits brokers, retirement providers, insurance carriers, or state agencies.
• Experience in a multi-location or high-volume employee environment.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) a plus.

• Highly organized with strong follow-through
• Detail-oriented with a focus on accuracy
• Empathetic, employee-centered approach
• Willingness to learn and grow professionally
• Ability to prioritize and adapt in a fast-paced environment

The pay range for this full-time, non-exempt position is $31.25 to $36.05 per hour, based on experience and qualifications. We also offer a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
• Supplemental disability insurance options
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid holidays
• Paid bereavement leave
• Free Taco Bell twice per week
• Same-day pay options through Daily Pay
• Employee Assistance Program, including free access to the Calm app
• GED completion program
• Tenure-based incentives
• Discounts on cell service, theme parks, car rentals, and more