HR Benefits/Compensation Specialist

Job Title: Human Resources Benefits/Compensation Specialist

Department:  Human Resources

Reports To:  Chief People Officer

Job Type: Full-time, Exempt

Position Summary:

The position will be responsible for the administration of employee benefits programs and compliance, as well as compensation strategy and market analysis. This role also encompasses data integrity and analysis, and ensuring compliance with governing regulatory bodies of benefits such as HIPAA, ACA, COBRA, FMLA, ADA, and relevant state-specific laws and reporting. This position will work closely with third-party administrators and employees to provide support, answer questions, and resolve issues related to benefits, compensation, and other human resource matters.

Key Responsibilities

• Knowledge of federal and state wage and hour laws (FLSA), pay equity regulations, and other relevant compensation-related legislation.
• Ability to clearly communicate compensation philosophies, pay structures, and program details to employees and managers.
• Ability to translate data into actionable insights and recommendations to improve benefits programs, compensation strategies, and overall HR effectiveness.
• Ability to identify and analyze problems, develop effective solutions, and make sound decisions.
• Ability to adapt to and manage organizational changes effectively.
• Skill in selecting, negotiating with, and managing relationships with benefits vendors, brokers, and consultants. Ability to evaluate vendor performance and ensure cost-effectiveness.
• Ability to effectively communicate complex benefits information to employees through various channels (presentations, written materials, online resources) and provide clear guidance and support.
• Ability to build strong relationships, collaborate effectively, and navigate complex interpersonal situations.

Qualifications and Skills:

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field. Equivalent work experience may be considered.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in benefits administration, preferably within higher education, nonprofit, or public sector environments.
• Strong understanding of employee benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, and compensation structures. 
• Familiarity with federal and state benefits regulations such as ACA, COBRA, FMLA, HIPAA, ERISA. 
• Proficiency in using HR information systems (HRIS) and benefits management software. 
• Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously. 
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to assist and educate employees regarding their benefits. 
• Maintain the highest levels of integrity and confidentiality in handling sensitive employee information with attention to detail. 

Working Conditions:

• Typical physical requirements for position include prolonged sitting, frequent use of hands/fingers for tasks like typing and operating equipment, fine motor skills for office tools, sufficient visual acuity for screen and document reading, the ability to hear and speak clearly for communication, reaching for supplies, and occasional standing, walking, and lifting of light objects (up to 10-20 lbs).

• Regular interaction with students, staff, and faculty members.

Preferred Qualifications:

Professional certification (e.g., SHRM-CP or PHR).

Experience in higher education or nonprofit organizations.

Proficient in Google and Microsoft software platforms.

The University of Lynchburg is committed to diversity within its community and welcomes applications from persons of color, women, Indigenous/aboriginal people of North America, persons with disabilities, the LGBTQIA+ community, and others who may contribute to the further diversification of the University of Lynchburg community.

The University of Lynchburg is an equal opportunity employer.