How Does One Become an Employee Benefit Administrator?

An employee benefits administrator is a human resources discipline that administers benefit plans for employees in an organization. These professionals find, negotiate and develop benefit plans such as health care and retirements savings plans. This specialty area of human resources is also responsible for developing and managing other benefits such as paid time off, tuition reimbursement and other plans to attract and retain employees. Becoming an employee benefits administrator requires education and experience in human resources.

Education

Because an employee benefits administrator is part of the human resources team, which requires the ability to handle confidential matters and understand employment law, most employers require a bachelor's degree in human resources or a related discipline for this occupation. Many colleges and universities also offer a master's degree program specializing in benefits and compensation, which can increase employment opportunities.

Experience

Most employee benefit administrators start in a generalized area of human resources such as a generalist or administrator. These types of occupations encompass the scope of human resources responsibilities including recruitment, employee relations, training and development and compensation. Human resources often work as a team in making overall decisions, creating employee policies and organizational plans. Gaining professional experience to understand the scope of responsibilities involved in human resources is often required by employers.

Professional Affiliations

Employee benefits administrators must understand employment and industry trends, and often build a network of colleagues to stay current of ways to improve employee benefits. Many of these professionals are members of the local Chamber of Commerce and the Society for Human Resources Management. SHRM is highly recognized by human resources professionals and employers, and shows an individual's dedication to her profession. The local Chamber of Commerce allows employee benefit administrators to attend meetings and events, and network with other industry professionals.

Certification

Obtaining one or several highly recognized credentials may assist in becoming an employee benefits administrator. The Human Resource Certification Institute offers several certifications including Professional in Human Resources, Senior Professional in Human Resources and Global Professional in Human Resources. The International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans offers the Certified Employee Benefit Specialist credential for those who specialize in employee benefits. Many employers prefer these certifications, which can increase employment opportunities for this occupation.

Salary

Salary can vary for this occupation depending on the size of the organization, as well as other factors. In December 2010, PayScale reported average salaries ranging from $37,029 to $54,284 per year. Those who received the CEBS credential earned average salaries ranging from $41,882 to $74,680 per year, and those who received the PHR credential earned average salaries ranging from $40,376 to $54,335 per year.

References

• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Human Resources, Training and Labor Relations Managers and Specialists
• PayScale: Salary Snapshot for Employee Benefits Administrator Jobs
• International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans
• PayScale: Salary Snapshot for Employee Benefits Administrator Jobs by Certification

Resources

• Society for Human Resources Management