Benefits Specialist

POSITION TITLE: Benefits SpecialistSALARY: $17.76 hourlyWORK DAYS: 240LOCATION: Division of Human Resources/MCPECREPORTS TO: Senior HR DirectorPRIMARY FUNCTION: The job of Specialist, Benefits/HR is done for the purpose/s of providing assistance to new and current employees, retirees interpreting provisions of the retirement defined pension/defined contributions plans and other benefit plans by providing assistance with procedural matters. Ensures compliance with federal and state laws and regulations. Conducts informational sessions or workshops on benefit plans. Performs administrative processes for all related benefit plans. Researches, provides guidance for and processes complex benefit questions and transactions.

REQUIREMENTS: Educational Level: High School Diploma/GED

Experience: Minimum one year of experience or equivalent technical/business certificate; 2-3 years of experience in Human Resources with functional experience related to Benefits that includes Accounting is required. Physical Activities: Routine physical activities that are required to fulfill job responsibilities Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities: Written and oral communication; adapts to changing work priorities; ability to problem solve; typing; computer; MS Office, HRIS systemsESSENTIAL DUTIES:Demonstrates prompt and regular attendance. Answers and resolves general and/or complex benefits questions (e.g. by phone, e-mail or in person, etc.) for the purpose of assisting employee and if unable to assist, directing the employee to the appropriate benefits specialist. Assists in preparation (e.g. open enrollments and orientations, etc.) for the purpose of ensuring required materials are available. Assists employees, beneficiaries and/or insurance providers for the purpose of verifying eligibility, conveying information and processing accurate payroll deductions. Distributes information (e.g. open enrollment, new/change forms, fringe benefit booklets, flyers, identification cards, confirmation letters, payroll deduction sheets, etc.) for the purpose of providing essential information to employees. Elevate recurring problems (e.g. system, plan provider, etc.) for the purpose of assisting in resolving systemic problems. Gathers all employee information daily from various reports (e.g. New Hire Report, Transfer Report, Termination Letters, MyMuscogeeBenefits.com, etc.) for the purpose of completing required data entry into the specific systems (ADP and Payroll System) ensuring that benefit plans are activated or deactivated accurately and payroll deadlines are met. Maintains a variety of benefit information (e.g. provider contracts, payroll files, employee benefit records, etc.) for the purpose of providing an up-to-date reference and audit trail for compliance. Participates in meetings, workshops, seminars, and retirement banquets as assigned for the purpose of conveying and/or gathering information required to perform functions. Prepares written materials (e.g. reports, memos, letters, death claims, etc.) for the purpose of documenting activities, providing written reference and/or conveying information. Processes a variety of benefit information for the purpose of completing enrollment/changes and leaves of absence within program guidelines. Reconciles enrollment forms and billings to employee records (e.g. health, dental, etc.) for the purpose of ensuring accurate eligibility and timely bill reconciliation and payments and complying with contract provisions. Records employee payments and weekly deposits for employees for the purpose of ensuring accurate payment and/or deposit information. Resolves conflicts with insurance providers for the purpose of verifying eligibility, conveying information and processing changes. Responds to Human Resources for the purpose of production of documents as requested for the law firm and outside requests for employee information to be reproduced. Updates information on New Employee Orientation (e.g. videos, insurance rates, etc.) for the purpose of allowing employees to make informed choices when enrolling in benefits. Performs other related duties, as assigned, for the purpose of ensuring the efficient, effective functioning of the work unit. The Muscogee County School District provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, disability, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.