Benefits Specialist

The Benefits Specialist works with employees and their departments regarding the University’s benefits package, such as, among other responsibilities, the state retirement systems, medical and dental insurance, life insurance, long-term disability insurance, voluntary benefits, and the state’s cafeteria plan. The Benefits Specialist processes enrollments, terminations, and changes to enrollments, maintains and updates the University database for specific benefit programs, prepares, reviews, and authorizes related payment reports and benefit-related accounts payable; performs benefit-related audits; and works with vendors to administer all University benefit programs, including, but not limited to, COBRA and retiree continuation plans. The position requires strong analytical, organizational, data entry, and communication skills; a high level of proficiency with Microsoft Excel, including the use of pivot tables and charts; the ability to recognize patterns and identify discrepancies in data; and the ability to evaluate processes and identify opportunities for process improvement. The Benefits Specialist works as part of a small team and provides support for additional benefits-related functions, including leave administration and reviewing internal benefits associated with the University’s organizational structure. The position requires the ability to maintain strict confidentiality and understand and comply with HIPAA privacy regulations and other applicable laws and regulations.