Compensation & Benefits Specialist

The Compensation & Benefits Specialist ensures employees are paid competitively, accurately, and fairly while managing benefits programs that support retention, compliance, and cost control. This role blends market analysis, program administration, and policy application with a strong attention to detail.

What This Role Owns

Compensation Management

• Administer salary structures, job leveling, and pay ranges

• Support annual compensation cycles (merit, promotions, bonuses)

• Conduct market pricing and benchmarking using salary survey data

• Ensure internal equity and compliance with pay regulations

Benefits Administration

• Manage day-to-day administration of U.S. benefits programs (medical, dental, vision, 401(k), life, disability)

• Coordinate open enrollment planning, execution, and employee communication

• Partner with vendors, brokers, and payroll to resolve benefits issues

Compliance & Risk

• Ensure compensation and benefits programs comply with U.S. federal and state regulations (FLSA, ACA, ERISA, COBRA)

• Maintain audit-ready documentation and plan records

• Support internal and external audits related to pay and benefits

Employee & Manager Support

• Serve as a subject matter expert for pay and benefits inquiries

• Explain programs clearly and accurately to employees and managers

• Resolve escalated or complex compensation and benefits issues

Data, Reporting & Process Improvement

• Maintain accurate compensation and benefits data in HRIS

• Prepare reports on costs, trends, and program effectiveness

• Identify opportunities to improve processes, communication, and employee understanding

What Success Looks Like

• Pay practices are competitive, consistent, and compliant

• Benefits programs run smoothly with minimal employee confusion

• Compensation cycles are executed accurately and on time

• Employees trust HR guidance on pay and benefits

• Leadership has clear data to support compensation decisions

Required Experience

• 4+ years in compensation, benefits, or total rewards roles

• Hands-on experience with U.S. benefits programs and pay practices

• Working knowledge of U.S. labor and benefits regulations

• Experience supporting multi-state or remote U.S. employees

Core Skills

• Strong analytical and data interpretation skills

• High attention to detail and accuracy

• Clear written and verbal communication

• Ability to handle sensitive compensation information

• Proficiency with HRIS, payroll systems, and Excel

Nice to Have

• Experience with compensation surveys (Radford, Mercer, Willis Towers Watson, etc.)

• CBP, CCP, or similar certification

• Exposure to equity, incentive, or variable pay programs