DescriptionJoin Our Team as a Benefits Specialist! Are you passionate about helping others navigate their benefits and retirement journey? Do you thrive in a customer-facing role where your attention to detail and problem-solving skills make a difference daily? If so, we want you on our team!
As a Benefits Specialist, you’ll be the go-to expert for employees, retirees, and HR department representatives, guiding them through the complexities of health, dental, vision and life insurance, retirement planning, and other essential benefits. This is your opportunity to play a vital role in shaping a positive employee experience for Charleston County’s dedicated workforce.
Why Join Us?* When you join Charleston County’s Human Resources Department, you’re not just taking a job-you’re joining a community. We’re committed to fostering a supportive, inclusive workplace where your ideas are valued, your growth is encouraged, and your work makes a real impact on the lives of others.
* We offer competitive pay, professional development opportunities, and a chance to shape the future of benefits administration for a dedicated team of public service professionals.
* The position will work in person at our Lonnie Hamilton III building, located at 4045 Leeds Avenue, North Charleston, between the hours of 8:30 and 5 Monday through Friday. The employee may be designated to report to work during hazardous weather or emergency conditions.
Ready to Make a Difference? Apply today! Let’s work together to create a benefits experience that empowers employees to thrive.
HIRING HOURLY: $25.40 - $27.17OPEN UNTIL FILLED - APPLICATION REVIEW BEGINS IMMEDIATELY Duties and ResponsibilitiesWhat You’ll Do: Every day will bring new challenges and opportunities to make an impact. In this role, you will:* Be a Trusted Advisor: Answer questions about health, dental, and life insurance, as well as flex spending and retirement, empowering employees with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions.
* Resolve Issues with Ease: Act as a bridge between employees and insurance providers, ensuring smooth communication and quick resolution of any issues.
* Support Retirees and Their Families: Educate retirees on the benefits they are entitled to and navigate the retirement process by completing the necessary steps to initiate their retirement and support any necessary benefit changes.
* Keep Everything in Sync: Maintain accurate workflows, update records, make payroll adjustments, review reports, and ensure everything runs like clockwork.
* Stay Ahead of the Curve: Attend workshops and training sessions to keep your knowledge sharp and stay up-to-date on new developments in benefits administration.
* Be Part of a Collaborative Team: Share your expertise, guidance, collaboration, and flexibility to help each other achieve the team's success.
Minimum QualificationsYour Qualifications: Bring your expertise to the table with:* An Associate’s Degree in Accounting, Business, Human Resources, or a related field (a Bachelor’s Degree is even better!).
* At least three years or more of experience working with PEBA benefits, including data entry, annual open enrollment processing, reporting, and resolving employee concerns.
* Proven success in an HR Generalist or Specialist role, or equivalent experience.
* Familiarity with benefits software, Microsoft Office Suite, and other tools that make benefits administration seamless.
* (Preferred) Certifications like IPMA-CP, PHR, or SPHR, along with knowledge of federal and state benefits regulations.
Knowledge, Skills and AbilitiesWhat We’re Looking For: We’re searching for someone who:* Builds Trust: You’re approachable, empathetic, and ready to assist with a genuine customer-first mindset.
* Loves Solving Problems: You enjoy untangling complex issues and finding solutions that leave everyone satisfied.
* Thrives on Organization: You can juggle multiple tasks, prioritize effectively, and ensure every detail is handled with care.
* Leads with Positivity: You inspire confidence and foster collaboration among your peers and stakeholders.
Charleston County offers competitive pay and a comprehensive benefits package to its employees, including but not limited to: - Health, Dental, Vision and Life Insurance
- Optional Life and Disability Insurance
- Optional Medical and Dependent Care Spending Accounts
- Annual and Sick Leave
- Fourteen (14) recognized Holidays
- South Carolina Retirement System (SCRS) State Retirement Plan
- Police Officers Retirement System (PORS - as applicable)
- Optional Deferred Compensation Program
- Longevity and Merit Pay Increases
- Optional Federal Credit Union Membership
- Leadership, Professional and Skill Development Training
- Employee Assistance Program
- Employee Well-being Program
For more information, visit our
benefits page.