Hybrid Benefits and Compliance Specialist bei Gateway Church

Job Summary

The Benefits & Compliance Specialist plays a key role in ensuring the organization’s benefit programs are administered effectively and compliantly. This role is responsible for managing benefit vendors, overseeing day-to-day benefits operations, and leading the development, maintenance, and communication of HR policies and the employee handbook. The ideal candidate brings a strong understanding of employee benefits and compliance regulations, paired with a proactive approach to policy development and vendor management.

Key Responsibilities

Benefits Administration & Vendor Management

• Serve as the primary point of contact for all benefits vendors, ensuring optimal performance, compliance, and cost-effectiveness
• Oversee annual open enrollment processes, including communication, system setup, and employee support
• Maintain accurate benefits records and ensure timely processing of enrollments, changes, and terminations
• Respond to employee questions regarding benefit plans and escalate complex issues as needed
• Monitor benefit trends and recommend enhancements or changes aligned with organizational goals

Compliance & Policy Development

• Ensure HR practices and benefit programs comply with federal, state, and local laws (e.g., ERISA, ACA, FMLA, COBRA, HIPAA)
• Maintain and regularly update the employee handbook to reflect current policies, legal changes, and organizational values
• Develop, implement, and communicate HR policies and procedures that support fairness, compliance, and clarity
• Assist with internal audits and respond to compliance-related inquiries and reporting requirements
• Monitor legislative changes that impact benefits and employment policies, advising leadership of necessary actions

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field (or equivalent experience)
• 3–5 years of experience in benefits administration and HR policy development
• Strong knowledge of federal and state employment laws and benefits regulations
• Experience managing benefit vendors and working with HRIS/benefits platforms
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills
• High attention to detail and the ability to handle sensitive information with discretion
• HR certification (e.g., PHR, SHRM-CP) preferred but not required

Work Environment & Physical Demands

Primarily office-based or remote work environment
Must be able to work at a computer for extended periods and participate in occasional meetings or presentations

Gateway Church does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law as it applies to churches. However, Gateway Church does discriminate on the basis of religion. Employment Requirement: All Staff must be a member or become a member of Gateway Church upon employment.