HR Generalist, Benefits

Harlem Children’s Zone (HCZ) — a world-renowned education and poverty-fighting organization based in New York — seeks an enthusiastic, dedicated, and mission-aligned Benefits Generalists to join the Human Resources Department.

The Benefits Generalist will bring a passion for the mission of Harlem Children’s Zone: break the cycle of intergenerational poverty with comprehensive, on-the-ground programming that builds up opportunities for children and families to thrive in school, work, and life.

Reporting to the Director of Human Resources Operations, the HRBG will be responsible for overseeing benefits programs that include but are not limited to administration of all benefits and retirement programs including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability, and retirement, leave of absence and accommodation management and compliance with organizational, federal, states, and local regulations , vendor relationships, and serving as the primary point of contact for all benefits related questions and concerns from employees and leadership.

For more information, check out Want to Work at Harlem Children’s Zone? Here’s 7 Things You Need to Know.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree with 5+ years’ experience in human resource benefits and leave administration with a mid to large-sized org.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite, HRIS systems or similar software.

Who you are

• Knowledgeable and Experienced: You bring strong expertise in benefits regulations, including ERISA, ACA, HIPAA, and COBRA, paired with a solid background in benefits administration within evolving environments.
• Solutions-Oriented: You provide clear, pragmatic solutions based on organizational knowledge, technical skills, and data-driven insights.
• Tech-Savvy: You have a strong understanding of HR and vendor systems, including their integration and the downstream impact of data quality. You leverage technology to drive efficiency and scale.
• Credible and Trustworthy: Known for your integrity, confidentiality, and discretion, you handle sensitive matters with the utmost professionalism.
• Values-Driven: You align with and model organizational values, fostering a culture of trust and respect.
• Strong Communicator and Influencer: Skilled at engaging across all levels, including senior and executive leaders, you build collaborative relationships and influence effectively throughout the organization.
• Adaptable and Resilient: Open to learning and applying new knowledge in real time, you embrace opportunities to grow and adapt in a dynamic environment.
• Collaborative and Relationship-Oriented: You prioritize building strong, productive relationships within HR and across the organization to achieve shared goals
• Analytical and Insightful: You possess strong analytical and critical thinking skills, enabling thoughtful and innovative problem-solving based on data-driven insights and strategic foresight.
• Organized and Adaptable: You demonstrate exceptional organizational skills and the ability to prioritize tasks effectively, balancing competing demands with flexibility and composure under pressure

What you'll do

Accommodation Administration

• Oversee ADA accommodation requests and assess supporting medical documentation.
• Lead interactive processes to determine reasonable accommodations.
• Collaborate with HR, managers, and leadership to ensure ADA/NYSHRL compliance.
• Maintain templates, documentation, and tracking systems.
• Handle complex accommodation cases and develop best practices.

Leave Administration

• Manage and track all types of employee leave (FMLA, PFL, STD, etc.).
• Maintain accurate documentation and communication throughout the leave process.
• Complete timecards for employees on leave.
• Coordinate with internal teams and vendors for compliance and smooth transitions.
• Review and update leave policies to reflect legal change.

Benefits Administration

In the absence of the Benefits Specialist:

• Manage benefits programs, including new hire enrollments, open enrollment, and life events.
• Serve as the main point of contact for employee benefits inquiries.
• Develop and update employee benefits materials and communications.
• Promote awareness of benefits and wellness programs.
• Monitor updates to federal, state, and local benefits regulations to