Benefits Analyst -Hybrid

Relay Resources is an Equal Opportunity Employer that strives to create a diverse workforce and an inclusive culture and believes each employee makes a significant contribution to our success. That contribution should not be limited by the assigned responsibilities. Therefore, this job description is designed to outline primary duties, qualifications, and job scope, but not limit the incumbent nor the organization to adjust the work identified. It is our expectation that each employee will offer their services wherever and whenever necessary to ensure the success of our endeavors.

Disabled people / people with disabilities and neurodivergent people are strongly encouraged to apply.

Relay Core Competencies

Focus on Strengths

Prioritize Informed Action

Communicate Clearly

Champion Disability Inclusion

Build Supportive Relationships

JOB SUMMARY

The Benefits Analyst supports the day-to-day administration, data integrity, and operational effectiveness of the organization’s health, welfare, and retirement programs. This role recommends changes based on market trends and budget considerations. They will work closely with other members of the Total Rewards team to ensure benefit plans are administered accurately, vendors and service partners meet performance expectations, and employees receive timely, high-quality support

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Strategic and Analytical Responsibilities – 40%

a. Evaluate employee utilization and review claims data to identify potential areas of benefit plans for improvement.

b. Conduct market research to analyze the cost and effectiveness of various benefit and retirement plans and make recommendations for improvements.

c. Work with insurance carriers and brokers to negotiate competitive rates and plan options for medical, dental, retirement, and other types of insurance.

d. Prepare and present reports on benefit program performance and highlights to leadership and management teams.

e. Review and revise internal benefits administration processes to streamline workflows, strengthen controls, and maximize operational efficiency.

2. Program Execution and Administration – 35%

a. Coordinate and administer employee benefit enrollment and renewal process, including communicating plan changes and updates to employees.

b. Respond to employee benefit inquiries submitted to the shared benefits mailbox or service center ticketing system and resolve issues related to benefits coverage and eligibility with timely, accurate resolutions, proper documentation, and escalation of complex cases as needed.

c. Facilitate monthly billing reconciliation and premium payments for all benefit providers.

d. Maintain strong working relationships with third-party administrators (TPAs), brokers, and insurance carriers.

e. Participate in vendor implementation or transition projects as needed.

3. Compliance and Governance – 20%

a. Ensure all plans comply with federal and state regulations, including ERISA, HIPPA, COBRA, and the ACA.

b. Assist in the preparation of annual filings (Form 5500), non-discrimination testing, and Summary Annual Reports (SAR).

c. Stay up to date on industry regulations and compliance requirements to ensure that benefit programs are in line with current federal, state and local laws.

d. Review employee benefit programs and policies to ensure compliance with Relay standards and regulations.

e. Maintain accurate records and documentation related to employee benefits, including enrollment forms, benefit summaries, and plan documents.

4. Other duties as assigned – 5%

a. Carry out additional responsibilities or special projects as required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum of 5 years administering retirement, pension, and/or health and wellness plans.
• Working knowledge of relevant government regulations (Section 125, ERISA, COBRA, HIPPA, PPACA, DOL, IRS) and leave laws (FMLA, OFLA, PLO, WA PFML, PDL, CFRA, ADA).
• Hands-on involvement with vendor management and contract negotiation.
• Proficiency in HRIS systems, compliance tools, and Microsoft Office Suite.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Familiarity in a nonprofit/social enterprise and/or unionized environment.
• Human Resources certification (CEBS, PHR, SHRM) a plus; equivalent combination of experience and expertise considered.
• Experience supporting a staff population with disabilities.
• Demonstrated understanding of nonprofit, social enterprise, or mission-driven organizations.
• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field preferred; equivalent professional experience will be considered.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Federal, state, and local labor and employment laws.
• Communication skills are essential for this role.
• Analytical skills, attention to detail, and organizational practices.
• Demonstrated skill in interpreting Collective Bargaining Agreements as related to employee benefits
• Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and maintain confidentiality

SCOPE & ACCOUNTABILITY

• Operates independently on most assignments, exercising significant judgment and discretion.

• Accountable for delivering accurate, timely, and compliant HR services while supporting organizational strategy.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

• Ability to work with moderate supervision and some independent decision making.

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Office atmosphere
• Sitting for extended periods of time
• Using a variety of office equipment
• Moderate noise level