Human Resources Benefits

The HR Generalist Benefits Partner plays a key role in ensuring The River’s people can bring their best selves to work every day. This role combines benefits administration with strategic design—balancing the precision of compliance with the empathy of service.

You’ll oversee health, welfare, and retirement programs while helping to build a culture of well-being and connection. You’ll simplify complex processes, use data to make decisions, and ensure every employee feels supported through life’s milestones and transitions.

This role is ideal for a professional who is both a builder and caretaker—someone who sees benefits as a core part of the employee experience, not just an administrative function.

Who You Are

You’re a trusted expert and a compassionate listener. You see benefits not just as plans and policies—but as promises that support people’s lives. You lead with accuracy, empathy, and innovation, and you’re ready to help The River’s employees feel cared for and confident every step of the way.

Key Responsibilities

Benefits Program Administration & Delivery

• Administer comprehensive employee benefits programs (medical, dental, vision, life, disability, FSA/HSA, and supplemental plans).
• Oversee participation in the Florida Retirement System (FRS) and related savings plans (403(b), Roth 403(b)).
• Guide employees through enrollment, changes, and benefits inquiries with empathy and precision.
• Coordinate leave of absence programs (FMLA, ADA, workers’ compensation, personal leave).
• Partner with Payroll for accurate deductions and reconciliations.
• Maintain confidential benefits records and ensure accuracy in HRIS.
• Provide seamless benefits onboarding for new employees.

Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure compliance with ACA, HIPAA, COBRA, FMLA, ADA, ERISA , and Section 125.
• Manage all required filings and reports (ACA 1094-C/1095-C, 5500 series, SPDs).
• Conduct audits and maintain compliance calendars.
• Oversee COBRA administration and workers’ compensation claims.
• Stay current on legislation affecting benefits programs.

Employee Experience & Communication

• Redesign benefits touchpoints to make them engaging and accessible.
• Lead annual open enrollment planning, communication, and delivery.
• Develop benefits education sessions, guides, and resources for employees.
• Support employees during key life events with clarity and compassion.
• Partner with vendors to host wellness and education events.
• Maintain accurate benefits information on internal platforms.

Wellness & Strategic Initiatives

• Design and promote holistic wellness programs—physical, mental, and financial.
• Collaborate with the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and external partners.
• Analyze participation data to refine initiatives and strengthen engagement.
• Ensure benefits programs align with diversity, equity, and inclusion goals.

Data Analysis & Process Improvement

• Leverage HRIS data to identify trends, cost drivers, and opportunities for optimization.
• Develop dashboards and KPIs for benefits effectiveness and satisfaction.
• Automate and streamline workflows for greater efficiency and accuracy.
• Document SOPs for benefits processes to ensure consistency and compliance.

Vendor & Broker Management

• Serve as the primary liaison for brokers, carriers, and third-party administrators.
• Manage renewals, contracts, and service-level performance.
• Participate in plan design and rate negotiations.
• Stay informed about vendor innovations that enhance employee experience.

Other Duties

• Support HR projects, cross-functional initiatives, and committee work.
• Provide backup for other HR functions during peak periods.

Qualifications, Knowledge, and Skills

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in HR, Business, Healthcare Administration, Risk Management, or related field.
• 4+ years of progressive experience in HR benefits administration or management.
• Proven compliance expertise with ACA, HIPAA, COBRA, FMLA, ADA, and ERISA.
• Experience with HRIS systems and benefits administration platforms.

Preferred:

• Master’s degree in HR, Business, or related field.
• Certifications: PHR , SHRM-CP , CEBS , or CBP .
• Experience in higher education or public sector.
• Familiarity with the Florida Retirement System (FRS) .
• Experience with Workday or ADP platforms.

Core Competencies

• Benefits Expertise: Mastery of plan design, compliance, and administration.
• Analytical Mindset: Data-driven decision-making and trend analysis.
• Communication Excellence: Ability to simplify complex concepts with clarity and care.
• Service Orientation: Empathetic approach to supporting employees at all stages.
• Attention to Detail: Precision in managing records, deadlines, and compliance.
• Technology Proficiency: Skilled with HRIS, Excel, and benefits systems.
• Project Leadership: Organized and adaptable under multiple priorities.
• Relationship Building: Trusted partner to employees, vendors, and HR peers.

About Us

Indian River State College is a leading public institution located on Florida’s Treasure Coast, serving students across multiple campuses in four counties. We are dedicated to academic excellence, innovation, and community engagement, offering associate and bachelor’s degrees, workforce training, and continuing education programs.

At The River , we believe every student’s and employee’s story matters. We value the different perspectives, experiences, and talents that come together on our campuses, creating a learning environment and workplace that’s supportive, inclusive, and inspiring. With flexible options online, on campus, and hybrid, we design learning experiences that meet students where they are and prepare them for real-world success. Programs like the Promise Program open doors by providing eligible students with tuition-free access, ensuring every learner has the opportunity to thrive.

Why Join the River

When you join Indian River State College, you become part of a forward-thinking and supportive community where your work truly matters. Your role is more than a job; it’s an opportunity to shape the future, uplift students, and be part of a mission-driven college that is changing lives every day.

What We Offer

At Indian River State College, we value the well-being and professional growth of our employees. Our comprehensive benefits package includes:

· Health & Wellness: Medical, dental, vision, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, supplemental plans, and access to our Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

· Affordable Coverage: PPO/HMO options starting at just $50/month for individual coverage and $180/month for family coverage.

· Retirement Security: Participation in the Florida Retirement System (FRS), plus tax-deferred annuities and Roth 403(b) options.

· Time for You: Generous paid vacation, personal, and sick leave to support work-life balance.

· Perks & Discounts: Reduced rates on services and tickets to local attractions.

· Growth & Development: Professional development programs, leadership training, and opportunities to advance your career.