Human Resources Specialist - Benefits

The Johnston County Human Resources Department has an opening for a Human Resources Specialist position. The Human Resources Specialist is responsible for assisting with the administration of employee benefits and a variety of human resources tasks. Work involves reviewing and interpreting policies and data, assisting employees with benefit concerns, providing benefits orientation to new employees, and assisting with annual Open Enrollment. This position will report to the HR Deputy Director. This position requires working on-site to collaborate with team members and support employee needs. Explains county benefits and the options available to employees; assists with completion of benefit forms and answers benefit questions and claim concerns. Responsible for New Hire Orientation, which includes preparing and distributing orientation packets and ensuring paperwork completion. Processes benefits enrollment elections and changes in benefits databases, as well as auditing payroll changes. Ensures the accuracy of all enrollments for benefits in the HRIS to provide vendors with accurate eligibility information; creates eligibility files for vendors as requested. Prepares weekly, monthly and annual reports from benefits administrator; analyzes data; and completes benefits audits. Participates in benefits planning sessions and assists with annual Open Enrollment. Prepares COBRA materials and notifies employees of their rights. Prepares and mails correspondence to employees and retirees about any changes or updates with their health benefits. Conducts training on benefits and other HR topics; assists with designing content for the employee intranet. Assists with tracking and analyzing employee participation in events, screenings, classes, etc. Prepares data reports and survey analysis for HR functions such as exit interviews, policy review, and research for special projects. Prepares ID and security badges; assists with auditing and scanning of personnel records. Assists the Human Resources Department with daily responsibilities and assigned projects. Serves as back-up to employee leave administration and wellness programming. Considerable knowledge of employee benefits and applicable laws. General knowledge of human resources principles and practices. General knowledge of the principles, practices, and techniques relating to health education, human resources management, and benefits management. General knowledge of graphic design software and creation of promotional materials. Ability to provide excellent customer service to employees, retirees and outside agencies. Strong attention to detail and ability to prepare, analyze, and maintain accurate records; as well as audit weekly, monthly and annual reports. Ability to exercise judgment in applying selected policies, procedures and regulations. Ability to practice effective communication techniques, both orally and in writing, and to conduct applicable training programs. Ability to resolve problem situations and be resourceful in gathering and giving information. Ability to interpret program policies, rules, regulations and procedures for departmental personnel and the general public. Ability to present information in an in-person, virtual or hybrid training environment. Proficient in Google Suite and Microsoft Office products. Intermediate to expert level experience with Microsoft Excel. Ability to develop and administer surveys. Physical Requirements Must be able to perform light work exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, and 10 pounds of force frequently. Must be able to physically perform the basic life operational functions of reaching, pushing, pulling, lifting, stooping, kneeling, typing, and standing for long periods of time. Vocal communication is required to express and exchange information accurately in person and by phone by means of the spoken word. Visual acuity is required for depth perception, preparing and analyzing written or computer data, determining the accuracy and thoroughness of work, and observing general surroundings and activities. Graduation from an accredited college or university, with coursework in human resources, business administration; or graduation from high school and four years of benefits experience, preferably in a local government setting; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. A valid North Carolina Driver's License.