Overview
Overview
The Senior Benefits Analyst is responsible for the analysis, administration, and continuous improvement of employee benefits programs, including health, welfare, retirement, absence, and voluntary benefits for the US and Canada. This role partners closely with HR leadership, HRIS, payroll, vendors, brokers, and internal stakeholders to ensure programs are competitive, compliant, cost-effective, and aligned with organizational goals. The Senior Benefits Analyst also provides subject matter expertise, data insights, and strategic recommendations to enhance employee experience.
Responsibilities
US and Canada Benefits Administration & Strategy
Manage and administer all US and Canada employee benefit programs, including medical, dental, vision, savings and spending accounts, life insurance, disability, retirement, absence, and wellness initiatives
Evaluate current benefits offerings and recommend enhancements based on market trends, utilization data, and employee needs
Support benefits strategy development and implementation aligned with organizational objectives
Data Analysis & Reporting
Analyze benefits data (enrollment, claims, utilization, and cost trends) to identify opportunities for cost savings and program improvements
Develop reports, dashboards, and executive summaries to support decision-making
Conduct benchmarking studies to ensure competitiveness in the market
Conduct reconciliations and system audits
Vendor Management
Act as primary liaison with benefits vendors, brokers, and consultants
Monitor vendor performance and service levels; resolve escalated issues
Participate in vendor selection, implementations, RFP processes, and contract negotiations
Compliance & Governance
Ensure compliance with US federal, state, and local regulations (e.g., ERISA, ACA, HIPAA, COBRA) and Canada regulations.
Prepare and review required US filings and disclosures (e.g., Form 5500, SPD, SAR, 1095-Cs) and Canada filings and disclosures.
Lead testing and audits (e.g., 401k, non-discrimination)
Stay current on regulatory changes and assess impact on benefits programs
Open Enrollment & Communications
Lead and execute annual open enrollment processes
Develop and deliver clear, engaging employee communications and educational materials
Conduct benefits presentations and training sessions for employees and HR partners
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Partner with HR, HRIS, Payroll, Finance, Vendor Risk, Information Security, and Legal teams to ensure seamless benefits operations
Support system integrations and HRIS updates related to benefits
Assist with mergers, acquisitions, and other organizational changes impacting benefits
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Finance, or related field (or equivalent experience)
5 - 8+ years of progressive experience in benefits administration or benefits analysis
Experience in a large or multi-state organization preferred
Strong knowledge of employee benefits programs and applicable laws/regulations. US required, Canada preferred
Advanced analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data and trends
Expertise in HRIS systems (e.g., Workday, UKG) and Excel (pivot tables, modeling). Workday expertise is highly preferred.
Excellent communication and presentation skills
Strong project management and organizational abilities
High attention to detail and problem-solving mindset
Adaptability and continuous improvement
Attention to detail and accountability
Core Competencies
Strategic thinking and business alignment
Analytical mindset and data-driven decision-making
Compliance, governance, and risk orientation
Collaboration and stakeholder management
Customer-focused approach and employee experience mindset
Project execution and operational excellence
Certifications, Licenses, and/or Registration
CEBS (Certified Employee Benefit Specialist), CBP, or similar certification
Physical Demands and Work Environment
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit and use hands to handle, touch or feel objects, tools, or controls. The employee frequently is required to talk and hear. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. The employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; reach with hands and arms. The employee is rarely required to stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, and the ability to adjust focus.
EEOC
Lakeview is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. All aspects of consideration for employment and employment with the Company are governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other category protected by federal, state, or local law.