SUMMARY: The Benefits Specialist is responsible for the comprehensive administration of employee benefits programs, including health, dental, vision, life, disability, retirement plans, and leave of absence programs. This role ensures compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, and provides guidance and support to employees on benefit-related matters. The Benefits Specialist also supports wellness initiatives, open enrollment processes, and acts as a liaison between the District and external benefits providers.
PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES
Administer and coordinate all employee benefits programs, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability, retirement (ASRS), Section 125 plans, and voluntary benefits.
Serve as the primary point of contact for employee inquiries related to benefits, leave programs, and retirement processes.
Conduct benefit orientations and onboarding sessions for new hires; assist with offboarding processes for exiting employees.
Monitor, interpret, and ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations, including COBRA, HIPAA, FMLA, ACA, ADA, and IRS guidelines.
Manage the annual open enrollment process, including system setup, employee communication, and enrollment data entry.
Maintain accurate records of employee benefits data in HRIS and payroll systems; process benefits-related changes throughout the year.
Collaborate with payroll to ensure accurate deduction processing and benefit cost allocations.
Prepare and submit timely premium payments and reconciliations to carriers and vendors.
Process claims and documentation related to disability, life insurance, and other benefit-related programs.
Administer and monitor leave of absence programs, including FMLA, personal, medical, and ADA accommodations.
Serve as the District’s ADA Coordinator; facilitate and document reasonable accommodation processes.
Support COBRA administration, including employee notifications and coordination with third-party administrators.
Maintain ongoing communication with the Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS) and assist employees with ASRS retirement and long-term disability matters.
Analyze benefits usage and trends; provide recommendations for plan improvements or cost containment.
Support internal and external audits by preparing and organizing required benefits documentation.
Assist in the administration of deferred compensation plans (e.g., 457 plans) and the District’s post-employment benefit programs.
Participate in benefits-related training, conferences, and professional development opportunities to stay informed on current practices and legislation.
Perform other duties as assigned in support of the Human Resources department.
EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a related field preferred. Equivalent work experience and professional training may substitute for formal education.
EXPERIENCE:
Minimum of three (3) years of experience in benefits administration or a human resources role involving direct responsibility for employee benefits and compliance.
Public sector or school district experience is highly desirable.
SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE/ABILITIES:
In-depth knowledge of employee benefits programs and related regulatory requirements (COBRA, FMLA, HIPAA, ADA, ACA, etc.).
Familiarity with Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS) policies and procedures.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Proficient in HRIS and payroll systems; experience with Microsoft Office Suite (especially Excel).
Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.
High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion.
Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities independently.
Experience in account reconciliation and benefits billing preferred.
WORKING CONDITIONS Standard office environment with frequent use of a computer and telephone. Interaction with employees, vendors, and service providers is frequent. Occasional travel may be required for training, benefits fairs, or vendor meetings.
TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT Twelve-month position. Classified Technical Professional – Exempt. Compensation and benefits in accordance with Governing Board policy and administrative guidelines.
EVALUATION: Performance to be evaluated in accordance with Board policy on evaluation of classified staff.
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