Benefits Specialist Job Description: Duties, Skills, Experience & Salary

A Benefits Specialist manages employee benefits programs, ensuring compliance with regulations and helping team members understand their options. They act as the bridge between HR, insurance providers, and employees, ensuring benefits are administered smoothly and cost-effectively.

Use this expert-written Benefits Specialist job description to attract qualified HR professionals who can optimize your employee benefits offerings.

Jun 5, 2025

Blog alt

Benefits Specialist Job Description Template

Job Title: Benefits Specialist

Location: [Insert Location]

Job Type: [Full-time/Part-time/Contract]

Reports To: HR Manager / Director of Human Resources

About the Role

We are looking for a detail-oriented Benefits Specialist to manage our company’s employee benefits programs. In this role, you will be responsible for overseeing health insurance, retirement plans, wellness initiatives, and other perks that support employee well-being and retention.

You’ll serve as the go-to expert for benefits questions, ensure regulatory compliance, and help employees get the most from their packages.

Benefits Specialist Responsibilities and Duties

  • Administer employee benefits programs including health, dental, vision, disability, retirement, and wellness plans
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for employees regarding benefit inquiries and claims
  • Coordinate with insurance providers and vendors to manage enrollments, renewals, and changes
  • Conduct benefits orientation sessions for new hires and open enrollment communications
  • Monitor benefits trends and recommend plan enhancements or cost-saving opportunities
  • Ensure compliance with federal and state regulations (ERISA, HIPAA, ACA, COBRA, etc.)
  • Assist in auditing benefits invoices and reconciling discrepancies
  • Maintain accurate records and prepare benefits-related reports for management
  • Support employee leaves and accommodations (FMLA, parental leave, etc.)

Benefits Specialist Qualifications and Skills

  • Strong knowledge of benefits administration and HR compliance regulations
  • Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills
  • Detail-oriented with strong organizational and documentation abilities
  • Analytical thinking and ability to resolve issues independently
  • Proficiency with HRIS platforms and Microsoft Excel
  • Ability to communicate benefits information clearly to diverse employee groups

Education and Experience Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field
  • 2–4 years of experience in benefits administration or human resources
  • Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS) or PHR certification is a plus
  • Experience with HR software (e.g., ADP, Paycom, Workday, BambooHR) preferred
  • Familiarity with ACA reporting, FMLA administration, and open enrollment cycles

Interested candidates should submit their resume and a brief cover letter to [email protected] or contact us at +1 999999999 for more information.

Benefits Specialist Average Salary

In the United States, Benefits Specialists typically earn between $55,000 and $78,000 annually, depending on location, experience, and company size. Senior-level or certified professionals may earn more.

Hire the Right Benefits Specialist Today

The right Benefits Specialist ensures your company offers competitive, compliant, and easy-to-navigate benefits programs. Use this job description to identify candidates who can manage benefits efficiently while providing top-notch employee support.

Want to find the best talent faster? Try Skima AI, just type in your criteria like “benefits specialist with ADP and ACA compliance experience in New York,” and the platform will instantly rank the most relevant candidates from millions of profiles.

Start your free trial today.

Find Top Talent Now 🎯
Search Faster
Screen Smarter
Auto-Outreach
Start 14-day Free Trial

No credit card required

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What does a Benefits Specialist do?

A Benefits Specialist administers employee benefit programs, advises employees, ensures compliance, and liaises with insurance vendors.

2. What skills are important for a Benefits Specialist?

Key skills include knowledge of HR compliance, communication, attention to detail, and experience with HR software platforms.

3. What qualifications are needed?

Most positions require a bachelor’s degree and 2+ years of experience. HR certifications like CEBS or PHR are highly valued.

4. How do I hire a Benefits Specialist?

Write a clear job description, review candidates with HRIS and compliance knowledge, and use Skima AI to streamline candidate discovery.