Benefits Administration Generalist / Human Resources Generalist

Michigan State University is seeking a customer-focused Human Resources Generalist to join the Benefits team. In this role, you will serve as a key resource for faculty, staff, students, and retirees, providing guidance on a wide range of benefits programs, enrollment processes, qualifying life events, and eligibility requirements. Through phone, email, virtual platforms, and in-person interactions, you will help customers navigate benefit options and ensure a positive service experience. 

The Human Resources Generalist will support benefit enrollments, process benefit-related transactions, assist with new hire onboarding and annual open enrollment activities, and help ensure compliance with applicable state and federal regulations. This position offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact by supporting the well-being of the MSU community while contributing to continuous process improvement and service excellence. 

Salary 

The salary range for this position is fixed at $56,446 – $60,783. Final compensation will be determined based on relevant experience within this range. 

Remote Work Capability 

This position is based in East Lansing, Michigan, on the campus of Michigan State University.  Human Resources embraces flexible work options, and this position allows for a hybrid work schedule (if desired), with regular onsite work required 3 days per week. All work schedules are assessed for impact to the work outcomes of the individual, team, and department – and must be pre-approved by the supervisor.  

What You’ll Do 

• Respond to benefit-related inquiries from faculty, staff, retirees, students, and graduate assistants regarding eligibility, enrollment, coverage, and qualifying life events. 

• Serve as a first point of contact for customers seeking assistance with benefit plans, forms, online systems, and vendor portals. 

• Review, verify, and process benefit enrollment forms and transactions accurately and within established deadlines. 

• Support newly eligible employees during onboarding by providing benefit education, enrollment guidance, and issue resolution. 

• Assist with annual open enrollment activities and ongoing benefits outreach and educational initiatives. 

• Provide front-counter support and deliver exceptional customer service through in-person, phone, and email interactions. 

• Communicate benefit plan provisions, university policies, and procedural requirements in a clear and understandable manner. 

• Support compliance efforts related to Section 125, COBRA, HIPAA, the Affordable Care Act (ACA), and other applicable regulations. 

• Collaborate with university partners, including the Office for International Students and Scholars, to support benefit eligibility and coverage requirements. 

• Contribute to process improvements, policy updates, and other special projects that enhance service delivery and operational effectiveness. 

What We’re Looking For 

• Demonstrated ability to provide responsive, accurate, and professional support to a diverse customer population. 

• Ability to clearly explain complex benefit information, policies, and procedures both verbally and in writing. 

• Strong accuracy and organization skills when reviewing documentation, processing transactions, and managing deadlines. 

• Ability to analyze issues, identify appropriate solutions, and support compliance with applicable regulations and university policies. 

• Ability to work effectively with colleagues and campus partners while balancing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. 

Why Join Us 

• Support the health, well-being, and financial security of faculty, staff, students, and retirees across one of the nation's leading public universities. 

• Expand your expertise through professional development, training, and exposure to evolving benefits programs and regulations. 

• Work alongside experienced professionals who are committed to collaboration, continuous improvement, and exceptional customer service.