Benefits Specialist - Job Description Scout Energy is a private energy investment firm that acquires, operates and improves upstream conventional oil and gas properties for institutional investors. Scout's business is both the management of private energy funds and the operation of the oil and gas assets it owns. The current employee base is approximately 1200 with 200 employees in the Dallas (headquarters) office. Scout is seeking an experienced Benefits Specialist at our HQ office to lead the full scope of benefits administration. As the sole benefits expert on a lean, high-performing HR team, this role will own the day-to-day operations, vendor relationships, and strategic planning of all employee benefit programs. This is a hands-on role, suited for a professional who thrives in both tactical execution and strategic planning, DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES Benefits Administration & Strategy
- Lead in the planning, development, renewal & administration of Scout's benefit programs
- Partner with brokers, carriers, and vendors to ensure optimal service and plan performance
- Evaluate plan design and trends to make recommendations for optimal and cost-effective plans
- Process benefits enrollments, life event changes, terminations, and support payroll integration
- Own the annual open enrollment process from planning through execution, including communication, system setup, vendor coordination, employee meetings, and issue resolution
- Manage special and/or recurring benefit projects (e.g., acquisition or divestiture)
- Manage benefits billing and appropriate reconciliation of self-funded plan reporting
- Administer all leaves of absence as required for FMLA and short-term disability
- Manage benefits compliance, including ACA, COBRA, ERISA, and required employee notifications
Employee Education & Support
- Conduct new hire benefit orientation to ensure understanding of plans and enrollment procedures
- Provide timely, clear and empathetic support to employes regarding benefits questions and issues
- Develop and maintain employee-facing resources such as benefits guides, FAQs, and Employee Portal content to support understanding and engagement
Wellness Program Oversight
- Lead planning, coordination, and promotion of company wellness program, Scout Strong
- Serve as ambassador for wellness, driving wellness program participation and engagement
- Measure program effectiveness and engagement; continuously recommend improvements
SKILLS & SPECIFICATIONS
- Extensive knowledge of benefits administration and regulatory frameworks (FMLA, ACA, etc.)
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Excellent organization and time management skills
- Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite
EDUCATION & QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor's degree in HR or related field
- 5+ years of experience in benefits administration, preferably in a mid-sized or lean HR environment
- Experience with self-funded plans strongly preferred