AI-Driven Leave & Benefits Specialist

Cisco; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 109,000 - 138,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision insurance

401(k) with Cisco match

Paid parental leave

Paid holidays and vacation

Job summary

Cisco is seeking a seasoned Benefits Specialist to manage leave, disability, and accommodation programs for US employees. You will ensure compliance, partner with vendors, and guide employees on plan interpretations.

The role emphasizes data-driven decision making and collaboration across IT, payroll, and leadership. You will drive change management, optimize processes with AI tools, and oversee budgets and audits while supporting broader life and disability benefit programs.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent practical experience in HR, business, or a related field.
• 5+ years of benefits administration experience with focus on leave, disability, and accommodations.
• Deep knowledge of FMLA, ADA, ERISA, HIPAA and regional/state leave laws.
• Experience managing relationships with third-party vendors and external partners.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills (VLOOKUP, pivot tables) and Office Suite proficiency; familiarity with vendor portals and benefits systems.
• HRIS experience (e.g., Workday) and case management tools.

Responsibilities

• Oversee end-to-end administration of leave programs (FMLA, ADA, disability, workers’ compensation) with compliance to laws.
• Provide employee support and advocacy through concierge and vendor coordination.
• Offer expert guidance on benefit plan interpretation and respond to inquiries.
• Collaborate with senior management, IT, payroll, and change management to improve service delivery.
• Lead change management and benefits communications, updating intranet, guides, and resources.
• Analyze leave and disability data, leverage AI tools to improve productivity and program effectiveness.
• Maintain program budgets, vendor invoices, and financial controls; oversee audits and reporting.
• Manage other related benefit programs (life, disability, survivor benefits) as needed.

Skills

FMLA knowledge

ADA knowledge

ERISA knowledge

HIPAA knowledge

Excel

Workday

Vendor management

Data analysis

AI tools usage

Education

Bachelor’s degree in HR, Business, or related field

Tools

Workday

PowerPoint

Word

Visio

Job description

Cisco is seeking a seasoned Benefits Specialist to manage leave, disability, and accommodation programs for US employees. You will ensure compliance, partner with vendors, and guide employees on plan interpretations.

The role emphasizes data-driven decision making and collaboration across IT, payroll, and leadership. You will drive change management, optimize processes with AI tools, and oversee budgets and audits while supporting broader life and disability benefit programs.