Benefits Specialist

Benefits Specialist Cooley is seeking a Benefits Specialist to join the HR team. Position summary : The Benefits Specialist is responsible for providing benefits support and guidance to US employees and partners of the firm. Involved in many benefits functions, including, but not limited to the following: Position responsibilities : Act as CN HR contact for HR and benefits questions from assigned locations - works closely with local administrative managers and directors in those offices to ensure consistency in HR/benefits practice across the firm. Field benefits questions from other offices, as needed Conduct new hire benefits orientation, as assigned Create and maintain benefit files for assigned locations. Accurately process benefit event changes (new hire, life event, termination) in the HRIS system, with carriers and payroll Assist with benefit claim issues as needed, working closely with the carrier and the employee/partner to resolve complaints. Involve Benefits Manager/Director of Benefits for elevated concerns Create benefits departure memos for assigned locations Participate in departure meetings to discuss benefits termination and continuation options Assist with updating benefits materials; maintains benefits forms/supplies Reconcile and request payment for assigned premiums Support COBRA process, working closely with Benefits Manager and outsourced COBRA vendor Assist with Open Enrollment process, including review of documents, audit and distribution of materials, delivery of information, fielding questions, etc Act as a resource for 401(k) questions. Assist with annual retirement plan audits, as requested Act as backup to other central HR team members, as needed All other duties as assigned or required Skills and experience: Required: Available to work overtime, as required 3+ years direct applicable experience (e.g., HR-benefits-related experience); senior level candidates must have 5+ years a direct applicable work experience along with the proven ability to operate at an elevated level in terms of scope of responsibility, judgement, and autonomy Previous general office experience Preferred: Bachelor's Degree HRIS experience Prior law firm experience General HR experience Competencies : Must be able to maintain absolute confidentiality regarding department information Ability to handle multiple tasks efficiently and accurately Strong analytical and math skills a plus Ability to function in a fast-paced hectic environment while still producing error-free work Excellent communication skills (verbal and written) Professional, yet empathic demeanor Comfortable speaking in front of small groups Ability to interact and work well with vendors and co-workers of all levels and personalities Cooley offers a competitive compensation and excellent benefits package and is committed to fair and equitable employment practices. EOE. The expected hourly pay range for this position with a work schedule of 40 hours per week is $42.50 - $52.00 ($88,400.00 - $108,160.00 annually). Please note that final offer amount will be dependent on geographic location, applicable experience and skillset of the candidate. Senior level candidates may be considered for this position and would be eligible for a higher salary range based on experience. We offer a full range of elective benefits including medical, health savings account (with applicable medical plan), dental, vision, health and/or dependent care flexible spending accounts, pre-tax commuter benefits, life insurance, AD&D, long-term care coverage, backup care for children and/or adults and other parental support benefits. In addition to elective benefit options, benefited employees receive firm-paid life insurance, AD&D, LTD, short term medical benefits as well as 20 days of Paid Time Off ("PTO") and 10 paid holidays each year. We provide generous parental leave and fertility benefits. New employees will attend a detailed benefit orientation to learn more about our many benefits and resources.