The Benefits Specialist is responsible for administering and managing employee leave programs in accordance with company policies, federal and state regulations, and applicable collective bargaining agreements. This role ensures accurate processing, documentation, and communication related to leave of absence requests, including FMLA, disability, personal leave, workers’ compensation, military leave, and other statutory or company-sponsored leave programs. The coordinator provides support to employees and managers by offering guidance, maintaining documentation, and ensuring a smooth and compliant leave process.
Essential Duties/Responsibilities
Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
Assist with the day-to-day administration of health, dental, vision, life, disability, FSA/HSA, retirement plans, and other employee benefit programs
Process benefit enrollments, changes, and terminations in HRIS and carrier systems
Support annual open enrollment, including system setup, materials preparation, and employee communication
Review, reconcile, and audit benefits data to ensure accuracy and correct discrepancies.
Serve as a primary contact for employee benefits questions, providing clear and timely responses
Educate employees on benefit options, eligibility, and processes
Ensures required records are properly maintained and controlled
Assist with required reporting and audits
Collaborate with HR team members on employee onboarding and offboarding processes
Administers various leave programs such as FMLA, disability, and other leave policies, ensuring consistency with company policies and legal requirements
Processes leave requests by handling the intake, processing, and tracking of employee leave requests, ensuring accurate documentation and compliance with relevant regulations
Tracks leave balances by maintaining accurate records of employee leave balances, ensuring compliance with company policies and legal requirements
Assist with special projects, process improvements, and system updates within the Benefits department
Maintain confidentiality of employee information at all times
Other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field preferred
2-5 years of experience in benefits or HR administration (or equivalent combination of education and experience)
Preferred Qualifications
Above average computer skills in a networked environment with advanced knowledge and skills using all MS Office products, advanced skills in Excel required
Excellent communication and customer service skills
Oracle HCM experience a plus
Highly motivated, energetic, self-starter with excellent oral and written communication skills
Working Conditions and Physical Demands
Position is based in an office environment.
No travel to off-site locations is required.
Requires prolonged sitting and movement throughout office/work locations, as well as occasional use of computers and equipment.
Must frequently stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, and climb or balance.
Must be able to communicate effectively and identify potential workplace hazards.
Requires the ability to occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 lbs.
Skills Required
- Associate's or bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field
- 2-5 years of experience in benefits or HR administration, or equivalent education and experience
- Advanced knowledge and skills using Microsoft Office products
- Advanced Microsoft Excel skills
- Excellent communication and customer service skills
- Oracle HCM experience
- Strong oral and written communication skills
What We Do
In a transitioning world, many things change. Global population growth, climate change, increased life expectancy and wealth have put pressure on our natural resources providing us with food, feed, fuel and general well-being. Now, more than ever we need to find viable ways to provide for our changing needs and those of future generations. That’s where we come in. With over 200 processing plants on five continents and sales and distribution offices throughout the world, Darling Ingredients serves the agri-food industry and reduce food waste by collecting and repurposing animal-based co-products and other natural materials that would otherwise be discarded. We convert these into unique and valuable ingredients that fit market demands. This way we connect global supply and demand and contribute to a circular economy.
