On a global basis, the Benefits Specialist provides subject matter expertise on all domestic and international employee benefits programs, processes, policies, vendors and other initiatives that enhance the organization’s ability to attract, retain and motivate a qualified workforce. As a member of the Human Resources Team, the Benefits Officer works closely with the HR team, brokers and insurance vendors in all aspects of domestic and international benefits management including; health, dental, vision, life/AD&D, voluntary life, FSA’s employment, executive benefits, retirement plans and participant driven plans. The Benefits Officer develops and coordinates Wellness plans and initiatives and oversees adherence to strict regulations regarding the Department of Labor, IRS, ERISA and Health Care reform. S/he provides guidance and assistance to all locations on various employee benefit plans and develops cost control procedures to assure high quality, competitive benefit plans in the most cost-effective manner for employees and employer. The Benefit Officer may partner with local country offices in selecting and procuring in-country benefits.

• Serve as a member of the Human Resources team collaborating on the development of HR activities, policies, strategy and annual departmental goals.
• Manage benefit program design, compliance, communications and administration for employee benefits programs, to include (health, dental, vision, life insurance, AD&D, Flexible Spending plans, Retirements plans (domestic and TCN) Executive Benefit plans, participant driven plans).
• Work with brokers to evaluate and recommend changes to benefit programs maintaining a competitive posture in the marketplace.
• Advise HR Staff on benefit plans, policies and rules, and conduct research when necessary.
• Maintain compliance with ERISA, DOL and IRS in relation to all benefits plans.
• Manage coverage renewals and annual open enrollments.
• Manage all domestic and Expatriate benefit inquiries and issues to ensure quick, equitable and courteous resolution.
• Write RFP’s and solicit proposals for all benefit services.
• Orient HQ, Expatriate and Third Country National staff to Pact benefits programs.
• Conduct periodic and ad-hoc benefit surveys, compile benefits-related statistics and census data, and summarize survey information to support benefits recommendations. Develop and provide detailed reports as required.
• Reconcile all benefits provider billings and prepare documents for payment of invoices. Perform complete audits of billings every six months.
• Stay abreast of benefits best practices through participating in surveys, networking, and attending seminars.
• Using competitive data conduct analysis and recommend competitive and cost-effective benefit packages.
• Participate in cross functional team meetings when a presence in a new country is being established.
• Develop benefit communications such as plan documents, plan changes, presentations and employee communication and notices.
• Partner with the finance/payroll team as appropriate on administration of benefit programs.
• Implement new and enhanced benefit programs to support the Total Rewards strategy.
• Support benchmarking efforts by providing on-going analysis in support of determining market competitiveness of global benefit programs.
• Coordinate and support the preparation of government filings such as Form 5500, Summary Annual Reports and Non-Discrimination testing; revising plan documents and SPDs in accordance with plan design changes and federal and state legislation.
• Manage the relationship with benefit vendors promptly addressing service issues
• Other duties as assigned.

• Minimum of 5 – 7 years of relevant experience (or equivalent) with 2+ years direct benefit experience
• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, business, or related field

• Experience in HR focusing on benefits strategy, communication, implementation and administration of plans.
• Experience working in an international development organization
• Excellent organizational and analytical skills. Ability to conduct research and participate in salary surveys to benchmark and learn industry best practices
• Demonstrated sensitivity in handling confidential information.
• Ability to understand and apply local country regulations/laws to human resources.
• Outstanding interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively both in groups as well as independently. Self-motivated and able to work independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent customer service, with the ability to present information, make recommendations and influence positively across various levels of the organization while exercising professionalism and diplomacy to accomplish objectives.
• Demonstrated competence in employee benefits, compensation, employee relations, performance management and human resource practices and related laws and regulations.
• Ability to manage complex projects, prioritize multiple tasks with close attention to detail and accuracy and meet deadlines.
• Exceptional ability to communicate, both orally and in writing oral and written communication skills.
• Strong knowledge of all aspects of Benefits planning, legislation and compliance including ERISA, HIPAA, COBRA, and Section 125, 403(b) required.
• Demonstrated knowledge of employee health and welfare benefits associated processes and procedures.
• Working knowledge of, federal and/or state regulations affecting the administration of broad-based or statutory benefit and retirement/pension plans.
• Strong negotiation, consulting, problem solving and analytical skills; the ability to build solid relationships with the management team, HR team, cross-functional internal partners and external providers/vendors.
• Experience and fluency with Human Resource Information Systems.
• Fluency in English required.
• Willingness to travel internationally.