PAY GRADE: 29E

CONTEXT OF THE JOB:
Under general supervision of the Assistant Director the Benefits Specialist performs research, analysis, and/or coordinates unit work flow. The principal emphasis is on maintenance and/or coordination of benefit records that impact major information systems. A high level of independent judgment is required to resolve benefits systems problems, advise employees about their benefits, and ensure policy and regulatory compliance. 

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Coordinates the administration of one or more elements of the benefits programs such as medical, dental, vision, group life insurance, long-term disability, educational and Flexible Spending Accounts. 
• Assists active employees with questions related to eligibility, provisions, and other matters related to benefits.
• Independently researches and resolves complex inquiries and claim issues with appropriate health vendors.
• Initiated and follows through with the processing of urgent enrollments and/or changes.
• Monitors the benefits communication tracking system tickets and follow through with replies as appropriate.
• Receives and reviews new hire election and mid-year qualifying life event change paperwork for completeness. Contacts employee in order to resolve incompleteness and/or mistakes.
• Coordinates, monitors, and processes benefits documentation in the Human Resources Information System (HRIS) to ensure changes are processed in a timely manner and in compliance with policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.
• Oversees and coordinates the generation of benefits adjustments in PeopleSoft ensuring accuracy of benefits deductions.
• Completes HRIS system corrections and payroll adjustments as necessary.
• Serves as primary contact for Child Support Orders and Health Insurance Premium Payment (HIPP).
• Reviews and responds to weekly vendor discrepancy reports.
• Generates and reviews daily system activity report.
• Responsible for HRIS data integrity; identifies and resolves system discrepancies impacting benefits
• Recommends process improvement; provides input into the design, implementation, and/or modification of changes pertaining to benefits administration.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.
• • •  

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree and three years of job-related experience or equivalent combination of education and experience
• PHR and/or SHRM certification preferred.
• Experience with PeopleSoft Benefits Administration processing, navigation, and query.
• Proficiency in MS Office applications with proficiency in spreadsheet, database, and/or presentation software.
• Familiarity with federal and State regulations related to certain benefit programs, i.e., IRS Section 125.
• Ability to interpret and apply guidelines and procedures.
• Strong communication skills; ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Strong interpersonal skills; ability to interact well with people of all ages and diverse backgrounds. 
• Possess analytical and mathematical skills.
• Knowledge of customer service standards and procedures.
• Ability to gather, review, and organize data control reports and coordinate a specialized function.
• Knowledge of University operating procedures for applicable office preferred.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality of records and information.