An organization based in the Bronx, NY is seeking a knowledgeable contract-to-hire Benefits and Leave Specialist to support their HR operations.
Schedule: Hybrid (3 days on-site, 2 remote)
Pay rate: $30-35/hr, converts to a $70–75K salary
Hours: 9am-5pm ET
Responsibilities:
- Serve as a key point of contact for staff navigating medical, parental, and personal leave programs
- Provide clear, empathetic guidance on leave options, timelines, and return-to-work protocols
- Manage leave programs including FMLA, NY Paid Family Leave, disability, salary continuance, and workers' compensation
- Ensure compliance with all relevant federal, state, and institutional policies
- Coordinate closely with vendors, payroll, and HRIS to ensure timely processing and continuity of pay and benefits
- Track all active leave cases and maintain up-to-date documentation for internal and regulatory purposes
- Support ADA-related requests and collaborate with occupational health teams as needed
- Assist with day-to-day benefits administration, including retirement packages and vendor communications
- Monitor shared inboxes and respond promptly to employee benefits inquiries
Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree required
- Minimum of 3 years of experience in benefits administration, with strong knowledge of leave management
- Familiarity with FMLA, NYPFL, ADA, workers' comp, and related regulations
- Strong analytical and follow-up skills; ability to interpret data and suggest process improvements
- Comfortable navigating complex, confidential issues with discretion and professionalism
- Prior experience partnering with HRIS, payroll, and talent teams preferred
- Strong written and verbal communication skills