Overview:
Job Overview
The HR Specialist II serves as the primary owner of assigned benefits initiatives across multiple benefit
program areas, responsible for end-to-end execution, vendor coordination, and cross-functional
alignment to ensure compliance, operational effectiveness, and an exceptional team member
experience. The Specialist independently manages moderately complex workstreams within defined
benefit domains, demonstrating growing proficiency across health and welfare, leave administration,
retirement programs, compliance processes, wellness initiatives, and vendor-supported operations. In
this role, the Specialist exercises sound judgment within established governance frameworks, identifies
opportunities for operational improvement, and escalates strategic or technical concerns as appropriate
Company Overview
Since 1904, Southern Star has proudly served as a reliable natural gas transporter to America’s heartland. Southern Star is an innovative, customer-oriented company committed to collaboration in all parts of our business. With over a century of trusted service, we continue to prioritize what sets us apart—our people.
At Southern Star, you’ll find a workplace where your growth matters, your voice is heard, and your contributions are recognized. Whether you're just starting out or looking to take the next big step in your career, Southern Star is the employer of choice where you can make a meaningful impact.
Will you be the next talented individual to join our team?
Benefits Overview
We believe great work deserves great rewards. In exchange for your passion and expertise, we provide a benefits package that supports your well-being and growth in all aspects of life.
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Medical
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Vision
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Dental
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Supplemental Life Insurance
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Dependent Life Insurance
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Flexible Spending Account
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Wellness Programs
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Service Awards
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Educational Reimbursement
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Fitness Reimbursement
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Holidays
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Paid Time Off
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Parental & Maternity Leave
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401K
Responsibilities:
- Analyze and interpret benefits-related data to identify trends, discrepancies, and opportunities for
operational improvement -
Manage confidential benefits-related information in accordance with regulatory and organizational
standards -
Lead defined benefits-related initiatives or defined project workstreams within established scope
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Support benefits budgeting activities through data gathering, cost tracking, and vendor
coordination -
Utilize HRIS or vendor portal systems to manage benefits-related data, support reporting needs,
and monitor file integrations and operational workflows to ensure data integrity and timely issue
escalation -
Serve as a primary point of contact for benefits-related inquiries, resolving moderately complex
issues and escalating strategic or technical concerns as appropriate -
Apply and interpret benefits-related regulatory requirements within established governance
frameworks -
Independently administer assigned benefit programs across multiple domains, ensuring accurate
execution, data integrity, and timely resolution of issues -
Coordinate with external vendors and third-party administrators to resolve issues, support
renewals, and monitor service performance within assigned scope -
Administer leave programs in accordance with regulatory requirements, advising employees on
eligibility and procedural requirements and collaborating cross-functionally to ensure accurate
processing -
Administer wellness and reimbursement programs, ensuring eligibility validation, accurate
processing, and record integrity -
Oversee the service recognition process, ensuring accurate milestone tracking and coordination
of awards -
Other duties as assigned
Qualifications:
Minimum Qualifications
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Minimum Qualifications
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Bachelor’s degree or combination of education and experience
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3+ years of progressively responsible experience in human resources, including demonstrated
exposure to multiple benefit program areas such as health and welfare, leave administration,
retirement programs, compliance processes, or vendor-supported benefit operations -
Working knowledge of employment-related regulations as they relate to benefit administration
(e.g., FMLA, HIPAA, ERISA) -
Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams
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Experience utilizing HRIS or benefit administration systems to support benefit operations
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Ability to review benefit-related data and identify trends or discrepancies impacting operational
effectiveness -
Experience coordinating with external vendors or third-party administrators to resolve issues and
support program delivery -
Strong customer service skills
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Ability to work in a team environment and build collaborative relationships
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Strong oral and written communication skills
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Demonstrated ability to exercise sound judgment in independently managing moderately complex
benefits-related workstreams within established governance frameworks -
Demonstrated ability to identify and implement process improvement opportunities within
assigned scope -
Demonstrated commitment to professionalism, integrity, and confidentiality
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Ability to interpret and apply policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements within established
governance frameworks -
Must be able to balance multiple priorities within established timeframes and complete tasks in a
timely manner
Preferred Qualifications
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Human resources-related degree or coursework
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Professional certification such as PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, or CEBS
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Demonstrated success using HRIS or HCM systems to improve operational efficiency or reporting
effectiveness -
Experience utilizing reporting tools and dashboards to support benefits-related analysis
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Experience supporting multiple benefit domains including health and welfare, retirement plans,
leave administration, and compliance initiatives -
Experience developing or supporting benefits-related communication campaigns
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Experience operating in a mid-size organization (400-1000) HR team with tactical and strategic
involvement -
Experience participating in vendor performance discussions or renewal process
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Experience adapting to evolving regulatory requirements, system updates, or organizational
changes impacting benefit operations
License and Insurability
A valid driver’s license and insurability under company policy are required.
