The Role
Administers employee benefits and leave programs, including open enrollment, claims, vendor coordination, and compliance with federal and California regulations. Manages CFRA, PFL, FMLA, ADA accommodations, workers’ compensation, and company leave programs. Serves as the primary employee contact, maintains documentation, prepares reports, supports payroll, conducts benefits education, and facilitates leave transitions and return-to-work processes while protecting sensitive personal information.
Summary Generated by Built In
POSITION SUMMARY The Benefits and Leave of Absence (LOA) Specialist for Optima Tax Relief, LLC (“Optima”) is located in the Santa Ana, California office and reports to the Director, Human Resources. This is a critical role in managing and administering employee benefits programs and leave of absence policies, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local laws. This position will serve as the primary point of contact for employees regarding benefits, time off, and leave requests, while working closely with Human Resources, Payroll, and external vendors to deliver a seamless employee experience. In-depth knowledge of California-specific regulations, including the California Family Rights Act (CFRA), Paid Family Leave (PFL), and other applicable state leave laws, is essential for success in this role. This role must also champion Optima’s culture and Core Values and help to deliver the best customer experience. ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
The essential functions include, but are not limited to the following:
The essential functions include, but are not limited to the following:
- Coordinate open enrollment and ensure timely processing of employee benefit elections, changes, and terminations.
- Serve as the main point of contact for employee benefit inquiries, including health, dental, vision, retirement, disability, and wellness programs.
- Collaborate with vendors to resolve claims, billing, and coverage issues.
- Ensure compliance with ERISA, ACA, COBRA, and other federal, state, and local benefits regulations.
- Administer and monitor employee leaves, including CFRA, PFL, FMLA, ADA accommodations, Workers’ Compensation, and company-sponsored leave programs.
- Act as a liaison between employees, managers, and third-party administrators to facilitate smooth leave transitions.
- Maintain accurate documentation and ensure compliance with required notice, tracking, and reporting obligations.
- Educate employees and managers on leave policies and procedures.
- Prepare reports for HR leadership and collaborate with Payroll to ensure correct leave and benefits payments.
- Conduct employee orientations and benefits workshops to promote engagement and understanding of available programs.
- Respond to employee inquiries with empathy, confidentiality, and accuracy.
- Guide employees through the leave process and support their re-entry to work after extended leaves.
- Follow company protocols to ensure the highest level of security to protect the client Personal Identifiable Information (PII).
- Other duties as assigned.
Skills Required
- Bachelor's degree in a related field from an accredited institution, or equivalent combination of education and experience
- 3+ years of benefits administration and leave management experience
- Strong knowledge of California-specific benefits and leave laws and regulations
- Knowledge of CFRA, PFL, FMLA, ADA, and Workers' Compensation requirements
- Experience with HRIS systems and benefits platforms
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Outlook
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The Company
What We Do
Optima Tax Relief is a leading tax resolution firm dedicated to helping individuals and businesses resolve unmanageable IRS and state tax liabilities. Specializing in tax relief assistance programs, the company provides full-service resolution services, including tax negotiations and audit defense, to help clients overcome financial hardships and secure a better financial future.
