Benefits Specialist - Administration Center

Blue Valley School District Benefits Specialist Job Description Purpose Statement The job of Benefits Specialist is done for the purpose/s of assisting with all aspects of employee benefits and benefit information; documenting and processing FMLA and extended leaves; Processing COBRA paperwork; providing information to new and current employees, providers and/or administrators; ensuring employee proof of coverage and accurate billing. Essential Functions Assists in administering employee benefit programs in compliance with district guidelines and carrier contracts (e.g. enrolling new and existing employees, explaining benefit options, organizing benefit fairs, mediating benefit eligibility and payment issues, filing claims, etc.) for the purpose of ensuring that employees have knowledge of and ability to enroll in district sponsored and providing maximum coverage to employees within contract specifications. Assists personnel, beneficiaries and/or insurance providers for the purpose of verifying eligibility, conveying information and processing benefit claims. Conducts new employee orientations for the purpose of ensuring employees are knowledgeable of current practices and administrative processes. Distributes documents (e.g. open enrollment packets, new/change forms, fringe benefit packages, flyers, identification cards, etc.) for the purpose of providing information and proof of insurance coverage/s. Maintains a variety of benefit information (e.g. insurance brochures, employee records, etc.) for the purpose of providing accurate information and maintaining an up-to-date reference and audit trail. Monitors employee absences for the purpose of ensuring that FMLA regulations are met. Participates in meetings, workshops and seminars, as assigned, for the purpose of conveying and/or gathering information required to perform functions. Prepares written materials (e.g. FMLA and extended leave forms, COBRA applications, reports, memos, letters, etc.) for the purpose of documenting activities, providing written reference and/or conveying information. Processes a variety of information (e.g. employee benefits, FMLA, extended leaves, COBRA, etc.) for the purpose of completing enrollment/changes and/or providing information within district, state and federal guidelines. Reconciles enrollment forms to employee payroll records (e.g. COBRA, disability, retirement, health, FMLA, extended leaves, etc.) for the purpose of ensuring accurate eligibility and payment information and complying with contract provisions. Resolves conflicts between a variety of parties (e.g. employees, vendors, state agencies, etc.) for the purpose of verifying eligibility, conveying information and processing claims. Supports assigned administrators for the purpose of providing information from which to make operational decisions. Other Functions Performs other related duties, as assigned, for the purpose of ensuring the efficient and effective functioning of the work unit. Benefits Specialist Page 1 of 2 Job Requirements: Minimum Qualifications Skills, Knowledge and Abilities SKILLS are required to perform single, technical tasks with a need to occasionally upgrade skills in order to meet changing job conditions. Specific skill based competencies required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include: applying district, state and federal policies and regulations; operating standard office equipment; preparing and maintaining accurate records; planning and managing projects; and utilizing pertinent software applications. Microsoft Windows Office, Outlook Calendar, Excel Spreadsheet and Access Database management and reporting experience is preferred. KNOWLEDGE is required to perform basic math, including calculations using fractions, percents, and/or ratios; read technical information, compose a variety of documents, and/or facilitate group discussions; and solve practical problems. Specific knowledge based competencies required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include: codes, regulations & laws related to employee benefits and retirement plans as well as FMLA and COBRA regulations; concepts of grammar and punctuation; business telephone etiquette; and accounting/bookkeeping principles. ABILITY is required to schedule activities, meetings, and/or events; often gather, collate, and/or classify data; and use basic, job-related equipment. Flexibility is required to work with others in a variety of circumstances; analyze data utilizing defined but different processes; and operate equipment using standardized methods. Ability is also required to work with a significant diversity of individuals and/or groups; work with data of varied types and/or purposes; and utilize job-related equipment. Problem solving is required to identify issues and create action plans. Problem solving with data frequently requires independent interpretation of guidelines; and problem solving with equipment is limited to moderate. Specific ability based competencies required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include: communicating with diverse groups; meeting deadlines and schedules; maintaining confidentiality; working with constant interruptions; and working with detailed information/data. Responsibility Responsibilities include: working under limited supervision following standardized practices and/or methods; leading, guiding, and/or coordinating others; tracking budget expenditures. utilization of some resources from other work units is often required to perform the job's functions. There is a continual opportunity to impact the organization's services. Work Environment The usual and customary methods of performing the job's functions require the following physical demands: occasional lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling, some stooping, kneeling, crouching, and/or crawling and significant fine finger dexterity. Generally the job requires 65% sitting, 10% walking, and 25% standing. The job is performed in a generally hazard free environment. Experience: Education: Equivalency: Job related experience with increasing levels of responsibility is desired. High school diploma or equivalent. FLSA Status Approval Date Non Exempt 2/13/2013 Salary Grade ADM 18 Required Testing Certificates and Licenses Continuing Educ. / Training Clearances Criminal Justice Fingerprint/Background Clearance Kansas Certification of Health Benefits Specialist Page 2 of 2