HR Generalist - 401k Compliance & Leave Administration

Seeking an HR Generalist that is a master at 401k Compliance and Leave AdministrativeABOUT THE ROLE We are looking for a detail-oriented HR Benefits & Compliance Specialist to join our client's Human Resources team. In this role, you will serve as the primary administrator for our 401(k) retirement plan and employee leave-of-absence programs, ensuring full regulatory compliance while delivering an exceptional employee experience. You will partner closely with external vendors, payroll, and HR leadership to maintain seamless, audit-ready benefit operations. WHAT YOU'LL DO401(k) Plan Administration & Compliance • Own end-to-end administration of the organization's 401(k) plan, including contribution processing, plan documentation, and recordkeeping. • Lead annual compliance testing (ADP/ACP, top-heavy, coverage) and coordinate timely corrective actions as needed. • Manage the annual 401(k) plan audit process, serving as the primary liaison with external auditors and third-party administrators (TPAs). • Prepare and file required regulatory reports, including Form 5500, and ensure timely distribution of participant notices and disclosures. • Monitor plan activity for compliance with ERISA, IRS, and DOL regulations; proactively identify and escalate issues. • Respond to employee questions regarding 401(k) eligibility, enrollment, vesting, loans, and distributions. Leave of Absence Administration • Administer all leave programs including FMLA, ADA accommodations, short-term and long-term disability, military leave, and company-specific policies. • Maintain accurate, audit-ready leave documentation and ensure consistent policy application across the organization. • Serve as the point of contact for employees and managers navigating leave requests, providing clear guidance throughout the process. • Coordinate with payroll to ensure accurate pay continuation and benefit deductions during leaves. • Track leave trends and generate reports to support HR leadership decision-making. HR Operations & Vendor Management • Maintain and update employee data within the HRIS system to ensure accuracy across benefits, leave, and payroll records. • Manage relationships with benefits vendors, TPAs, and insurance carriers to ensure service-level expectations are met. • Support broader HR initiatives including open enrollment, compensation analysis, performance management, and onboarding programs. • Research regulatory developments and recommend process improvements to strengthen compliance and operational efficiency. • Assist with HR communications, employee education programs, and internal HR projects as assigned. WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FORRequired Qualifications • Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business, Finance, or a related field. • Minimum 2 years of HR, benefits administration, or related professional experience. • Demonstrated knowledge of 401(k) plan administration, ERISA compliance, and Form 5500 filing requirements. • Hands-on experience with FMLA, ADA, and multi-state leave administration. • Proficiency with HRIS platforms and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook). • Exceptional attention to detail with the ability to manage confidential information with discretion. • Strong written and verbal communication skills; able to explain complex benefit topics in plain language. Preferred Qualifications • Professional HR or benefits certification (PHR, SHRM-CP, CEBS, or equivalent). • Master's degree in Business Administration, Human Resources, or a related field. • Experience working with third-party 401(k) administrators and benefit brokers. • Background supporting or interpreting plan documents, Summary Plan Descriptions (SPDs), and compliance notices. CORE COMPETENCIES 401(k) & Retirement Plan Compliance • Leave Administration (FMLA/ADA) • ERISA & DOL Regulations • Benefits Vendor Management • HRIS Data Management • Audit Coordination • Employee Relations • Regulatory Reporting BENEFITS Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance Health Savings Account Fitness Center, Health Clinic and Wellness Initiatives Parental & Family Leave Educational Assistance Program 401(k) w/ Company Match Service Bonus Employee Plan of Incentive Compensation (EPIC) PTO Holidays Life Insurance Long-Term Disability

Created: 2026-03-04