10195 - Benefits Specialist, Senior

Salary Range: $48,381 - $77,894   FLSA: Non exempt 

Essential Functions: The following duties are normal for this position. The omission of specific statements of the duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification. Other duties may be required and assigned. 

Leads and coordinates daily work activities of assigned co-workers, volunteers, and interns; confers with supervisor to obtain direction regarding work assignments and priorities; organizes tasks in order to complete assigned work; monitors status of work in progress and inspects completed work; confers with co-workers, assists with complex/problem situations, and provides technical expertise; assists with training and instructing co-workers regarding operational procedures and proper use of equipment; and assists with supervision of co-workers by reporting employee problems and providing input on disciplinary action and employee performance evaluations.

 Prepares retiree payments; creates retirement records; enters data into department database; verifies accuracy and completeness of entries; maintains personnel records and files pertaining to employee participation in benefit programs; and terminates benefits for retirees who are deceased or for whom payments have ended. 

Prepares pension refunds and estimates; calculates pension account balances and estimates; runs payment program; distributes checks ; and provides information and answers questions regarding calculations, plan details, annuities, employee options and other issues. 

Coordinates disability pension application process; receives and reviews disability pension applications; communicates with physicians, medical staff and others outside the County; and obtains and verifies benefits information. 

Enters data for employees no longer engaged by the County who are eligible for a pension benefit at a future date; verifies accuracy and completeness of data entered; and verifies and reports individual pension status. Performs related administrative duties; receives and responds to questions regarding payments, direct deposit accounts, taxes, plan administration, plan rules and regulations, buybacks and related issues; changes direct deposit and taxes; picks up and distributes office mail; and prepares and sends correspondence. 

Provides administrative support to Pension Board; attends board meetings; prepares meeting materials; compiles, organizes, and distributes agendas, minutes or other items; takes meeting minutes; processes invoices for legal services, actuarial consulting and investment consulting; and maintains all related documentation. 

Minimum Qualifications: Associate Degree in Business Administration or a related field required; two years of experience in processing employee benefits and pension issues; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job. 

Specific License or Certification Required: Must possess and maintain a valid Georgia driver’s license.

Supplemental Information:

• Maintain and update employee records and benefits files.
• Coordinate daily benefits processing, including enrollments, terminations, and claims.
• Advise and inform employees of the details of the company's benefit programs.
• Serve as New Employee Orientation Presenter regarding employee benefits when requested.
• Work with the County’s Information Technology Department to ensure accuracy with system records.
• Resolve benefit-related issues and respond to queries and requests in a timely manner.
• Research new employee benefit plans and vendors.
• Manage billing and payments for employee benefit invoices and gateways.
• Coordinate with vendors. 
• Evaluate the efficiency and value of current benefit programs and make recommendations for improvement.
• Collaborate with Payroll Department and ensure that employer contributions and payroll deductions are processed accurately and in a timely manner.
• Maintain and create records, reports, and documentation in accordance with federal, state, and provider regulations.

Preferred Skills And Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in business administration, or a related field.
• Experience with Oracle benefits administration software preferred, but not required.
• Knowledge of COBRA, HIPAA, and ERISA regulations.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.
• At least 3 years of experience in benefits administration.
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
• Knowledge of federal and state regulations related to employee benefits.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Excel and Word.