HR/ Benefits Specialist

The HR/Benefits Specialist works with all employees to address all benefits concerns/questions to include enrollment, claims processing and all potential requests for leave (FMLA, STD, LTD) from employees. The HR Specialist will provide guidance to management to aid with conflicts, developing performance improvement plans, coaching and progressive discipline to include involuntary terminations. The HR/Benefits Specialist will work closely with the HR Manager to process Unemployment Compensation claims.

· Serve as the go-to-person for all benefits-related questions from employees regarding claims resolution, enrollment questions and all potential leave requests.· Research employee benefits plans and vendors to identify those that present the best value· Design, recommend and implement new benefits programs· Ensure timeliness and accuracy of required reporting and fees· Evaluate and revise internal processes to reduce costs and increase efficiency· Document and maintain administrative procedures for assigned benefits processes· Monitor administrative costs of benefits programs and recommend cost containment strategies, including alternative methods for administration and funding· Responsible for creating educational materials and employee communications that will showcase benefits.· Participate as necessary in all employee relations activities, including mediating workplace disputes and conflicts.· Using strong HR knowledge, provide guidance and support to managers throughout the organization· Draft legally compliant discipline and coaching documentation and make recommendations related to Involuntary Terminations.· Conduct Exit interviews with departing employees as requested by direct supervisor or HR team.· Assist managers in creating performance improvement plans and determining appropriate action plans for employee development.· Promote and facilitate a positive employee relations culture to include working closely with HR Generalist to develop special events and employee engagement activities.· Train/coach supervisors/managers in interpreting and administrating the HR policies, procedures, and employee policy manual.· Ensure regulatory compliance with applicable federal, state, and local requirements related to the human resources function including employment and labor law, FLSA, FMLA, ADA, and employee relations.· Work collaboratively with other HR staff to support corporate and business unit activities.· Develop and administer programs designed to establish and maintain effective employee relations through the uniform and equitable application of policies and procedures.· Audit the organization to identify employee relations issues and recommend appropriate actions to address and resolve those issues.· Responsible for assisting with investigations on behalf of the company.· Maintains employees leave records and terminated files to include UE correspondence.· Contribute to the regular strategic planning, review, and development of Human Resource plan and be an integral part of the site management group with the ability to contribute positively.· Become cross trained in payroll, badge administration and I-9 completion as directed.· Attend and record notes/minutes of all HR Roundtable meetings.· Perform all other duties and special projects as assigned.SKILLS REQUIRED: · Excellent interpersonal, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills.· Excellent time management skills with the proven ability to meet deadlines.· Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills.· Thorough understanding of HR laws, regulations, and guidelines.· Proficiency in Microsoft 365 (Office, Excel, and PowerPoint) required.· Detail-oriented.· Process oriented.· Assessing the accuracy, neatness and thoroughness of the work assigned.

· A bachelor’s degree in human resources and/or at least three years’ experience of benefits administration is required.· SHRM-CP and/or PHR certification preferred.· Payroll experience with mid-sized companies preferred.

· Remaining in a stationary position, often standing, or sitting for prolonged periods.· Moving about accomplishing tasks or moving from one worksite to another.· Communicating with others to exchange information.· Repeating motions that may include the wrists, hands, and/or fingers.· Low temperatures.· Noisy environments.· Must possess visual acuity, i.e., close, distance, and color vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust.· Ability to physically stand, bend, squat, and lift equipment up to 10 poundsFeeser's Food Distributors is an equal opportunity employer.

We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.