Are you passionate about navigating the complexities of Leave of Absence administration while fostering engaging communication initiatives? Scripps Research in La Jolla invites you to join our innovative People team (Human Resources) as a Benefits Specialist. In this role, you'll play a vital part in shaping the employee experience through comprehensive leave administration and dynamic benefit communication campaigns.

As a member of the People team, you will help ensure that our benefits offerings are aligned with the needs of our workforce and comply with all relevant regulations. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of benefits administration, excellent communication skills, and a commitment to providing exceptional service to our employees.

ABOUT US:

Scripps Research is a nonprofit biomedical institute ranked as one of the most influential in the world for its impact on innovation. We are celebrating our 100-year legacy in 2024. This significant milestone marks a century of seminal discoveries in immunology, infectious diseases (such as COVID-19, flu, HIV), neuroscience, heart disease, cancer, and more. Located in La Jolla, California, the institute houses six research departments, multiple Nobel laureates, a top-ranked graduate school and a leading postdoctoral training program. We work hand-in-hand with researchers of the Scripps Research Translational Institute and Calibr to merge foundational studies in biology, chemistry and computer science with translational science to produce pioneering drugs and advances in digital and precision medicine. Together, we cultivate new scientific leaders and expand the frontiers of knowledge to deliver medical breakthroughs impacting human health around the globe. If you have a passion for making a difference, this could be your opportunity to join our transformative team.

Celebrating a Century:

Key Responsibilities:

Leave Administration:

• Administer comprehensive leave programs (FMLA, CFRA, PDL, SDI, PFL, ADA, USERRA, etc.) in compliance with federal and state regulations, ensuring adherence to privacy guidelines and seamless coordination with employees and third-party administrators.
• Collaborate closely with all People Partners (Human Resources Business Partners) on leave cases, ensuring a synchronized approach to employee support.
• Generate and analyze reporting metrics to inform decision-making processes and improve program effectiveness.
• Identify emerging trends and opportunities in LOA administration and develop strategic initiatives to optimize employee engagement and satisfaction.

Employee Communication & Support:

• Develop and implement innovative strategies to enhance benefit communication and administration in alignment with Scripps Research's overall mission and goals.
• Coordinate engaging communication and learning programs focusing on Scripps Research benefits, including 'lunch and learn' events and retirement program fundamentals, to maximize employee utilization and satisfaction.
• Special projects such as Open Enrollment vendor implementation, launch of new programs, audits, analyzing and corrections of system issues.
• Provide backup assistance with retirement plan administration as needed, ensuring continuity of service and support for employees.

Qualifications:

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in Human Resources Benefits and/or Leave of Absence administration.
• Strong knowledge of federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations.
• Excellent communication and an ability to give presentations and facilitate group discussion on LOA and benefits related topics.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and HRIS systems, preferably Workday or UKG.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

May include: Stationary position for an extended period of time, traverse campus/facility as needed, operate machinery such as computer, phone, copy machine; exposure to cold or hot temperatures.

COMPENSATION:

The expected hiring range for this position is $27.00 to $32.75/hourly, commensurate with experience. Consideration will be given to experience that exceeds the listed requirements.

COMPREHENSIVE BENEFITS INCLUDE:

• Employer Contributed Retirement Plan - Depending on eligibility, employees receive an employer contributed retirement plan (no employee contribution required) and the option to contribute to a 403(b) (which is similar to a 401(k) using your own pre or post-tax dollars)
• Full Suite of Health and Welfare plans including three medical plan options (including an HSA available option), dental, vision, life insurance, disability, EAP and more
• Access to Flexible Spending Accounts (Medical/Dependent Care)
• Competitive vacation and sick leave policies
• Free, on-site parking

The above statements describe the level of work performed and expected in general terms. The statements are not intended to list all the responsibilities, duties and/or skills required of employees so classified, and the content herein is subject to change due to the business needs of Scripps Research, with or without notice. Furthermore, nothing in this job description shall be interpreted to be in conflict with or to eliminate or modify in any way the employment-at-will status of Scripps Research staff.

EEO Statement:

The Scripps Research Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We promote diversity of thought, culture, and background in the fields of science. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic or status. Underrepresented individuals are encouraged to apply.