Benefits and Wellness Specialist

Posting number: 12M00000119

Department: Human Resources

Job classification: Benefits and Wellness Specialist - Human Resources*

Posting type: Open

Categories: Human Resources

Summary

The anticipated hiring range is $73,672 - $90,000.

The Benefits & Wellness Specialist will provide specialized administration and subject matter expertise for assigned employee benefit programs involving complex eligibility requirements, employee status changes, and high-impact employee circumstances. This role will have primary responsibility for the effective and efficient administration of assigned programs and will serve as a subject matter expert in interpreting plan provisions, eligibility requirements, policies, and procedures. The Specialist will focus on compliance, vendor management, data integrity, analysis, employee support, and continuous process improvement within assigned programs. The Specialist will utilize research, critical thinking, problem solving, and analytical skills to evaluate program effectiveness, resolve complex issues, identify risks, and develop opportunities for process and program improvement.

Ideal candidates will thrive in a fast-paced, rewarding environment and demonstrate strong skills in Excel, Benefits Administration, critical thinking, research, analysis, and problem solving to successfully manage multiple priorities and complex benefit matters in a dynamic environment.

Examples of duties

• Manages benefit plans in accordance with ERISA, COBRA, HIPAA and other federal and state regulations
• Oversees benefits programs to include health insurance, dental insurance, long-term disability, voluntary benefits, life insurance, pre-paid legal services and other benefits and wellness programs
• Analyzes employee benefit costs and makes recommendations for cost savings and plan design changes.
• Conducts benefits information program sessions, interviews prospective retirees, provides estimates and coordinates all necessary correspondence with benefit providers and agencies
• Manages oversight of customer service support process (calls and emails) for current and former associates; handles complex and escalated customer service issues
• Collaborates on and/or gathers information related to pension and other post-employment benefits
• Manages issue resolution, oversight for reporting, administrative functions, inbound and outbound integration files, plan eligibility, contributions and reconciliation
• Works as a lead to other Benefits Team members
• Responsible for the management of the relationship and activities of assigned plan vendors to ensure outstanding customer service and accurate and efficient administration in accordance with plan/program design and legal requirements
• Recommends and implements process improvement solutions, and engages in key projects/duties as assigned
• Provides oversight for all plans, programs, and policy compliance with federal, state and local regulatory requirements
• Leverages technology to increase productivity and efficiencies
• Communicates/presents employee benefit information
• Performs all additional related duties and responsibilities as required

Program Leadership & Administration

• Lead and oversee assigned employee benefit programs, including Paid Parental Leave, Qualifying Events, Life Insurance, Retiree Benefits, and Line of Duty Benefits.
• Serve as a subject matter expert for assigned benefit programs, interpreting plan provisions, eligibility requirements, policies, procedures and providing specialized guidance on complex benefit matters.
• Provide specialized benefits eligibility review and guidance for complex employee populations and circumstances in accordance with established policies, plan provisions, and eligibility requirements.
• Monitor program operations to ensure accurate, effective, and compliant administration.
• Coordinate with vendors, carriers, and internal stakeholders to maintain efficient program operations and resolve complex issues.
• Ensure accurate reporting, documentation, and recordkeeping for assigned programs.
• Evaluate program operations and recommend improvements to enhance efficiency, accuracy, compliance, and employee experience.

Employee Support & Service

• Provide individualized guidance to employees regarding assigned benefit programs, including complex eligibility requirements, qualifying events, life insurance and other specialized benefits.
• Research and analyze complex eligibility questions, applying established benefit plan provisions, policies, and procedures and escalating matters requiring determination of employee classification or employment status to the appropriate organizational authority.
• Proactively assist employees in understanding benefit options and the implications of changes in employment or family circumstances.
• Conduct employee education sessions and develop resources to support informed benefit decisions.

Analysis, Audit & Operational Excellence

• Analyze benefits data and program activity to identify trends, discrepancies, risks, and opportunities for improvement within assigned benefits programs.
• Conduct audits, reconciliations, eligibility reviews and data analyses to support the accuracy, integrity and compliance of assigned benefit programs.
• Research discrepancies and coordinate corrective action with vendors, carriers, payroll, HR, and other stakeholders.
• Evaluate benefit processes and recommend enhancements to improve controls, efficiency, and service delivery.
• Use advanced Excel and Benefits Administration systems to analyze data, conduct eligibility and program reviews, monitor program activity, and prepare reports.
• Participate in vendor reviews, program evaluations, implementations, and special projects.
• Develop and maintain procedures, process documentation, and controls for assigned programs.
• Manage multiple priorities while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Knowledge (some combination of the following):

• Human Resources / Employee Benefits
• Employee benefit eligibility requirements and policies
• Interpretation and application of benefit plan provisions and eligibility rules
• Budgeting and reconciliation of large complex data sets
• Benefits promotion/advertising techniques
• Microsoft Office Suite, with a focus on Microsoft Word and Excel

Skills (some combination of the following):

• Research and analysis
• Benefits eligibility analysis and interpretation
• Plan and policy provision interpretation
• Project management and resourcefulness
• Oral and written communication
• Critical thinking and problem solving
• Diplomacy and interpersonal communication
• Public speaking/presenting to a diverse population

Abilities (some combination of the following):

• Multi-tasking
• Listen attentively, encourage and motivate others
• Track and maintain multiple projects simultaneously
• Function independently with minimal supervision
• Manage time effectively and complete priorities accurately and quickly

Minimum Qualifications

• 5+ years of Human Resources experience with 3 years in the field of employee benefits
• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a related field
• An equivalent combination of training and experience (as approved by the department) may be used to meet the minimum qualifications of the classification

Preferred Qualifications

• 4+ years of experience in Benefits Administration, with experience administering complex benefit programs and eligibility requirements
• 1+ year of experience with complex employee classification criteria
• Education in accounting, finance or math is strongly preferred, or training and experience equivalent