HR Compliance Specialist

Job DetailsDescriptionPosition SummaryThe HR Compliance Specialist is responsible for ensuring compliance with HR policies, internal controls, and regulatory requirements, with a primary focus on HR system workflow approvals and benefits administration. This role plays a critical role in audit readiness by enforcing approval protocols, maintaining documentation, and ensuring accurate and compliant administration of employee benefits programs.Key ResponsibilitiesHR Compliance & Workflow ApprovalsReview, approve, and monitor HR system workflows (e.g., UKG), including employee changes, access requests, and benefits‑related transactions, in accordance with established approval protocols.Ensure approvals follow documented processes and meet internal control and audit requirements.Maintain segregation of duties and role‑based access controls within the HR system.Document workflow approvals and retain audit‑ready evidence for internal and external audits.Evaluate HR processes for compliance risks and recommend corrective actions.Partner with HR leadership, Payroll, Finance, and IT to align compliance standards and controls.Track and manage Benefits AdministrationAdminister employee benefits programs, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability, retirement, and wellness plans.Manage benefits eligibility, enrollments, life event changes, and terminations.Coordinate COBRA administration and ensure compliance with applicable regulations.Support annual open enrollment, including assisting with system configuration, auditing enrollments, and employee communications.Conduct regular audits of benefits deductions and carrier invoices; resolve discrepancies with vendors and Payroll.Serve as a liaison with benefits vendors, brokers, and carriers.Audit & Regulatory SupportSupport HR, benefits, financial, and SOX‑related audits by preparing reports, documentation, and audit evidence.Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, including ERISA, ACA, HIPAA, COBRA, and FMLA.Maintain policies, procedures, and control documentation related to HR systems and benefits administration.Track audit findings and ensure timely remediation.HR Systems & Data IntegrityEnsure accurate maintenance of employee and benefits data within the HRIS.Run compliance and audit reports as requested by leadership or auditors.Assist with testing system upgrades, workflow changes, and control enhancements.Monitor data accuracy between HRIS, payroll, and benefits vendors.Employee & Stakeholder SupportProvide guidance to employees and HR partners on benefits, compliance requirements, and HR workflow processes.Assist with training and communication related to HR compliance and benefit programs.Respond to benefits and compliance inquiries with professionalism and discretion.Required QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Compliance, or a related field.3–5 years of experience in HR compliance, benefits administration, or HR operations.Working knowledge of HRIS platforms (UKG or Oracle preferred).Strong understanding of HR compliance regulations and audit principles.Demonstrated experience reviewing and approving HR system workflows.High attention to detail and strong documentation skills.Ability to handle confidential information with integrity.Preferred QualificationsSHRM‑CP/SHRM‑SCP, PHR/SPHR, or Certified Benefits Professional (CBP).Experience supporting internal, external, or SOX audits.Payroll and benefits system integration experience.Core CompetenciesHR compliance and internal controlsWorkflow governance and approvalsBenefits administration and reconciliationAudit readiness and documentationRisk assessment and process improvementCross‑functional collaborationSuccess IndicatorsClean audit results with minimal findingsTimely and compliant workflow approvalsAccurate benefits administration and billingStrong documentation and process adherence