Should I Consider Becoming a Benefits Administrator?

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Benefits Administrators are important pieces of any human resources puzzle. When employees have questions about health insurance or paid vacation, it is the Benefits Administrator that has the answers. However, it isn’t just employees who count on Benefits Administrators.

Employers rely heavily on the knowledge and expertise of these qualified benefits experts to look out for company interests as well. The dual role of a successful Benefits Administrator is one in which he or she manages the balancing act of doing what is best for both employee and company in any situation.

Day to day responsibilities for Benefits Administrators include directing benefit programs like health, dental, and vision, overseeing worker’s compensation claims, supervision of life insurance enrollment, explaining 401k plans and more. Basically, any and every benefits question or concern by either employee or employer eventually finds its way to the desk of a Benefits Administrator.

Aside from the duties previously mentioned, one of the most important tasks of a successful Benefits Administrator is that of a mediator between employee and employer or employees and third party vendors. Everyone involved counts on the Benefits Administrator to research and determine the best route to take for managing employee benefits from start to finish.

Education & Skills

To enter the field of Benefits Administration, candidates must complete a Bachelor’s degree program from an accredited college and have three to five years of relevant experience. Administrators need to have a firm grasp on company policies and procedures as well as excellent communication and organizational skills.

Constant technology advances mean potential administrators have to be proficient with computers and possess a high level of analytical ability. Along with company policies and procedures, a strong familiarity with federal and state regulations is also necessary.

Salary

According to the website, indeed.com, the average salary for qualified Benefits Administrators is roughly $60,000 per year. This is 4 % higher than other salaries with comparable educational requirements in similar fields.

Work Environment

Benefits Administrators are generally stationed in the human resources department of their company and work daily with computers and online vendors. Good telephone and online communication skills are an integral part of each day and Benefits Administrators are expected to effectively meet deadlines and keep clear records of employee benefits.

Overview

Those considering a career in benefit administration must have strong people skills and a desire to work hand in hand with human resource staff on a daily basis. Ever increasing technology demands, an administrator needs to understand the software and programs, along with the ability to effectively translate and explain what they’ve learned to employees and employers.

Benefit administrators are the life rafts of companies with employees who lack a clear understanding of the ins and outs of benefits. Their role is crucial to keeping the human resources wheel spinning without issue. Problem solving is their talent and for those with a knack at handling people and complex human resource issues, becoming a Benefits Administrator is a good option.