Employees in this class manage the benefits function of a medium to large agency and subordinate employees supporting this function.
Employees in this class have specialized knowledge and skills related to benefits, work under limited supervision, and have broad decision-making authority.
Administers, directs, and reviews employee benefit programs. Mediates between benefits providers and employees, such as by assisting in handling employees' benefits-related questions or taking suggestions. Develops and recommends policies and procedures for the assigned program area of responsibility. Explains and interprets policies and procedures regarding benefits programs to staff and agencies. Communicates changes related to insurance and retirement rules, regulations, and processes. Serves as the lead benefits contact for employers offering state insurance and retirement benefits. Conducts or supervises the onboarding process for new employees. Manages employee and/or employer access to self-service benefits portals. Interprets and communicates all provisions of state insurance products and retirement system rules and regulations applicable to employer. Manages tracking and monitoring of Affordable Care Act (ACA) required stability and waiting periods. Manages review and reconciliation of insurance premium billing. Manages the employer role in an employee retirement action. Ensures complete benefit counseling experience with member or employee. Evaluates the needs of the employee or member and accurately communicates all pertinent benefit information and options. Oversees distribution of appropriate continuation of healthcare benefits (COBRA) notices. Manages open enrollment and related correspondence. Hosts and delivers open enrollment sessions. Manages workers compensation programs. Develops and monitors budgets for supplies and staffing needs. Recruits, trains, and evaluates staff. Schedules work and distributes duties to staff. Conducts analyses and prepares special reports regarding the assigned program area.
Knowledge of Affordable Care Act (ACA) rules and regulations, continuation of healthcare coverage (COBRA) regulations, and state retirement plans. Knowledge of all state insurance benefits including health, dental, vision, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, and long-term disability. Knowledge of retirement membership eligibility, refunds, benefit estimates, and retirement eligibility (service and disability). Ability to supervise staff, manage resources and exercise professional decision-making skills. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers, employers, employees, and retirees. Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing. Ability to effectively use electronic enrollment systems, to include an understanding of billing reports and employer reporting.
A bachelor's degree and relevant experience in insurance or retirement programs.