Benefits Specialist

Saddleback College

Mission Viejo, CA

ID: 7145527 (Ref.No. REQ11019)
Posted: May 16, 2023
Application Deadline: Open Until Filled

Job Description

Title:

Benefits Specialist

Job Category:

CSEA

Job Opening Date:

May 16, 2023

Job Closing Date:

Location:

District Services

Work Location:

Mission Viejo, CA

Department:

Payroll

Pay Grade, for more information click on this link: 

https://www.socccd.edu/departments/human-resources/contracts-and-salary-schedules

Pay Rate Type:

Monthly

Work Days:

Monday - Friday

Work Hours:

8:00 am - 5:00 pm (Schedule and shift are subject to change in accordance with department needs)

Hours Per Week:

40

Percentage of Employment:

100%

Months of Employment:

12

Salary:

Starting salary at $5,391 per month

Required Documents:

Resume and Cover Letter

Job Description:

C.S.E.A. Classified Bargaining Unit Salary Range 127
Initial Screening Date: June 5, 2023

Class specifications are intended to present a descriptive list of the range of duties performed by employees in the class. Specifications are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.

SUMMARY DESCRIPTION
Under direction from assigned manager or administrator, performs a variety of complex, technical, and paraprofessional duties involved in support of District employee benefits programs including insurance, enrollment, eligibility, and orientation functions; provides consultation, technical assistance, and liaison services related to employee benefits, and other assigned areas; provides administrative and clerical support to administrative staff; and may provide assistance to other departmental staff as needed.

REPRESENTATIVE DUTIES
The following duties are typical for this classification. Incumbents may not perform all of the listed duties and/or may be required to perform additional or different duties from those set forth below to address business needs and changing business practices.

Performs a variety of specialized duties in support of District employee benefits programs including insurance, enrollment, eligibility, and orientation functions; administers and assists in implementing District employee benefits programs and coordinates the daily functions of the fringe benefits program in accordance with established laws, rules, regulations, policies, and procedures.
Provides various services related to health, welfare, and other employee benefits programs; coordinates activities to assure employees receive appropriate health and other benefits and proper distribution of various fees and disbursements.
Conducts open enrollment activities for District employees; enrolls, adds, and deletes employees and dependents to and from various benefit plans; reviews, processes, and assists employees with completing a variety of enrollment forms and applications; determines eligibility for benefits.
Provides consultation to employees concerning employee benefits programs, insurance, and eligibility; responds to inquiries and provides detailed and technical information concerning related plans, options, claims, laws, codes, regulations, processes, policies, and procedures.
Serves as a liaison between District administrators, personnel, and outside agencies concerning assigned benefits; resolves benefit issues and conflicts in a proper and timely manner; works with insurance agencies to assure employees are provided with appropriate benefits.
Meets and confers with employees concerning employee benefits; conducts benefit orientations for new employees; distributes informational materials and enrollment forms and explain health, disability, and various other benefits programs and related deductions, options, and eligibility guidelines.
Distributes, collects, reviews, prepares, processes, and evaluates eligibility of benefit forms and applications; verifies accuracy and completeness and makes corrections as needed; assists employees with completing forms and applications.
Researches, compiles, evaluates, updates, and maintains benefits records, data, and information; codes, processes, records, and inputs data from a variety of sources into a computerized system to meet established deadlines; initiate queries and develop spreadsheets; inspects files, records, reports, and databases for valid input and output of data.
Processes and reconciles payments for insurance; collects premium payments as needed; calculates, prepares, processes, revises, and assures accuracy and proper distribution of various payments and disbursements; monitors and follows-up on status of employees on leave.
Communicates and liaisons with employees, other District departments, providers, claims administrators, consultants, outside organizations, and various state and federal agencies to exchange information, coordinate activities, resolve issues or concerns, and assure smooth and efficient functioning of employee benefits programs
Assists in assuring cost-effectiveness of the District’s employee benefits programs; researches, evaluates, and recommends benefit options to reduce costs; provides technical recommendations concerning employee benefits changes, additions, policies, and procedures.
Uses District, College, State, and Federal laws, codes, regulations, policies, and procedures to provide accurate information and services; answers questions, clarifies information, responds to requests, and resolves problems; explains District, College, Division, or Department area policies and procedures where judgment, knowledge, tact, and interpretation of policies and procedures is necessary; researches and interprets regulations for Federal, State, District and College programs relating to area of assignment; maintains current knowledge and stays up to date on requirements and changes related to area of assignment; participates in the development of new/revised procedures to accommodate changes; maintains a working knowledge of standard operating procedures within the area of assignment; notifies employees of mandated and negotiated changes affecting employee benefits programs.
Composes, prepares, completes, and maintains a variety of correspondence, documents, forms, and other materials; generates, prepares, monitors, maintains, and reviews reports; disseminates information as appropriate; verifies and reviews documents and reports for completeness, accuracy, and conformance with established regulations and procedures.
Utilizes various computer applications and software packages including word processing, spreadsheet, and database programs; operates a variety of office equipment and machines; learns to use new technology as necessary to perform duties; utilizes electronic technology to correspond with others and to maintain assigned calendars, schedules, and appointments; may assist with coordinating and arranging meetings.
Attends a variety of meetings, workshops, conferences, presentations, and training sessions as required; maintains compliance with mandatory trainings and certifications as directed by supervisor; attends and participates in diversity, equity and inclusion trainings and events.
Abides by all confidentiality practices required by District, College, state, and federal policies, laws, rules, and regulations.
Establishes and maintains cooperative working relationships with students, staff, and faculty, as well as various outside groups to ensure efficient, effective, and correct implementation of departmental objectives.
Prioritizes work assignments and ensures work is completed in a timely manner.
Maintains departmental area(s) in a safe, clean, and orderly environment; assures compliance with established safety procedures and regulations; refers unresolved problems to supervisor.
Perform related duties as required.

QUALIFICATIONS
The following generally describes the knowledge and ability required to enter the job and/or be learned within a short period of time in order to successfully perform the assigned duties.

Knowledge of:
Rules, regulations, laws, codes, policies, procedures, methods, terminology, and practices related to benefits administration and processing, including benefits packages and insurance programs, enrollment, eligibility, and orientation functions.
Mathematical principles.
Current office practices, procedures, methods, and computer equipment, software, and applications related to the work, including word processing, desktop publishing, spreadsheets, and databases.
Principles and practices used to establish and maintain files and information retrieval systems; principles and practice of recordkeeping, and principles and procedures of business letter writing and report preparation.
Techniques for providing a high level of customer service including methods and techniques of proper telephone etiquette.
Effective written and oral communication skills including correct English usage, grammar, spelling, punctuation, and vocabulary.
Interpersonal skills using tact, diplomacy, patience, and courtesy.
Research methods and techniques.
Work organization principles and practices.
Diverse academic, socioeconomic, cultural, disability, and ethnic backgrounds of community college students.
Techniques to facilitate effective interaction with people on an individual or group basis.
Confidentiality requirements when dealing with personal and sensitive student information.
Occupational hazards and standard safety policies and procedures.
District and College organization, operations, policies, and objectives.

Ability to:
Perform a variety of technical and paraprofessional duties related to the benefits function.
Provide technical training, information, and assistance to others con
Administer and assist in implementing District employee benefits programs and coordinate the daily functions of the fringe benefits program.
Provide consultation to employees concerning employee benefits programs, insurance,
and eligibility.
Review, evaluate, and determine eligibility and benefit amount.
Enroll, add, and delete employees to and from various benefit plans.
Review, process, verify, and evaluate a variety of forms and applications.
Conduct benefit orientations for new employees.
Serve as a liaison between personnel, administrators, and various outside agencies.
Learn and understand the organization and operation of the Benefits Department as necessary to assume assigned responsibilities; understand, explain, and apply administrative and office policies and procedures as well as pertinent laws, regulations, and ordinances; work within the policies, functions, and requirements of area of assignment.
Make arithmetical computations accurately.
Detect and research discrepancies in data and records and take corrective action as necessary.
Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing in English; use correct English usage, grammar, spelling, punctuation, and vocabulary; understand and follow oral and written directions in English; listen actively and effectively.
Develop, maintain, and foster effective working relationships involving interactions and communications personally, by phone, and in writing with a variety of individuals and/or groups from diverse backgrounds on a regular, ongoing basis.
Interact extensively with and respond to requests and inquiries from, faculty, staff, managers/administrators and outside agencies; effectively present information in person or on the telephone to students, staff, or the public; provide excellent customer service.
Perform a variety of office support and clerical duties and activities of in support of the assigned area; operate office equipment including hardware, software, and devices supporting word processing, database management, and spreadsheets; type or enter data at a speed necessary for successful job performance; maintain accurate filing, record keeping, and tracking systems; apply excellent organization skills and attention to detail; compose and prepare correspondence and memoranda; maintain filing systems; prepare documentation, reports, and other written materials.
Work with and exhibit sensitivity to and understanding of the varied racial, ethnic, cultural, sexual orientation, academic, socio-economic, and disabled populations of community college students.
Work effectively under pressure with frequent interruptions and a high degree of public contact on a variety of tasks concurrently while meeting established deadlines and changing priorities; concentrate on detailed tasks for extended periods of time; work confidentially, independently, and collaboratively.
Exercise good judgment, discretion, and personal initiative in resolving confidential, difficult, and sensitive situations, according to established policies and procedures;
use sound judgment in recognizing scope of authority; maintain critical and sensitive information, records, and reports confidentially.
Effectively utilize computer applications and equipment in the performance of duties; adapt to changing technologies and learn functionality of new equipment and systems.
Report to work on a regular and consistent basis, as scheduled, to assigned job.
Maintain the cleanliness, safety, and organization of assigned area; ensure adherence to safe work practices and procedures; monitor activities in assigned area and enforce policies for proper use and behavior.
Participate in trainings and meetings on-site and off-site as required.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE GUIDELINES
Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:

Education/Training:
Equivalent to two years of college level course work in human resources, business administration, accounting, or a related field.

Experience:
Two years of clerical and technical experience in human resources, payroll, or employee benefits, preferably in a public sector environment.

License or Certificate:
Possession of a Certified Employee Benefits Specialist certificate is desirable.
A valid California driver’s license and proof of insurability may be required for some positions to drive a District or personal vehicle to attend meetings or pick up/deliver documents or other materials.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT
The conditions herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions.

Environment: Work is performed primarily in a standard office setting. Duties are typically performed at a desk or computer terminal; subject to noise from office equipment operation; frequent interruptions and contact in person and on the telephone with students, academic and classified staff and others. At least minimal environmental controls are in place to assure health and comfort.

Physical: Primary functions require sufficient physical ability and mobility to work in an office setting; to stand or sit for prolonged periods of time; to occasionally stoop, bend, kneel, crouch, reach, and twist; to lift, carry, push, and/or pull light to moderate amounts of weight; to operate office equipment requiring repetitive hand movement and fine coordination including use of a computer keyboard; and to verbally communicate to exchange information.


Vision: See in the normal visual range with or without correction.


Hearing: Hear in the normal audio range with or without correction.

SPECIAL COVID-19 NOTICE:

Interviews may be held in-person (following all necessary precautions) or in a virtual format. Employees must reside in California while employed with the South Orange County Community College District (SOCCCD), even during remote work. Thank you for your continued interest in working at the SOCCCD.

The SOCCCD is committed to protecting the health and wellbeing of students, faculty, staff, administrators, and the communities it serves. More information can be found on our District website by visiting https://www.socccd.edu/communications/covid-19-information.

NOTICE TO ALL CANDIDATES FOR EMPLOYMENT:

The Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, Public Law 99-603, requires that employers obtain documentation from every new employee which authorizes that individual to accept employment in this country. SOCCCD will not sponsor any visa applications.

PLEASE NOTE:

A California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS) retiree may not accept employment until after the first 180 days of retirement. Anyone retired from CalPERS accepting permanent employment with this District will be required to reinstate as an active CalPERS member. Please contact CalPERS for additional information regarding your retirement status.

Any active vested member of California State Teachers Retirement System (CalSTRS), who accepts employment with the District to perform service that requires membership in CalPERS, is eligible to elect to continue retirement system coverage under CalSTRS

DISABILITY ACCOMODATIONS:

If you require special accommodations in the application and/or selection process, please notify District Human Resources at least two (2) business days prior to the Job Close Date/Initial Screening Date, by either calling (949) 582-4850 or sending an e-mail to hrinfodesk@socccd.edu.

ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENT:

Report to work on a regular and consistent basis, as scheduled, to assigned job.

CAMPUS CRIME AND SAFETY AWARENESS:

Information regarding campus crime and safety awareness can be found at www.saddleback.edu or www.ivc.edu. Paper copies are available in the District Human Resources office upon request.

DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION, AND EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY (EEO):

The South Orange County Community College District is committed to creating an academic and work environment that fosters diversity, equity and inclusion and equal opportunity for all, and ensures that students, faculty, management and staff of all backgrounds feel welcome, included, supported, and safe. Our culture of belonging, openness, and inclusion, makes our district a unique and special place for individuals of all backgrounds.

Our District and our colleges are looking for equity and inclusion-minded applicants who represent the full diversity of California and who demonstrate a sensitivity to the understanding of diverse academic, socioeconomic, cultural, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, and ethnic backgrounds present within our community. When you join our District, you can expect to be part of an exciting, thriving, equity-focused, and inclusive community that approaches higher education with the lens of social justice and collaboration among students, faculty, staff, administration, and community partners. In deciding whether to apply for a position with our District, you are strongly encouraged to consider whether your values align with our District’s mission and goals for EEO, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.

SOCCCD IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Important: You must make sure that you have completed your application for a posting by 11:59 p.m., Pacific Time, on the posting's Job Close Date, along with any required documents, in order to be considered for the position.

Applicants must complete all fields/sections on the application. Do not type "See Resume" or leave any fields blank. Applicants must enter their work experience, education, etc. on the District application. Applications reflecting "See Resume" will be considered incomplete and will not be considered for recruitment.



At the South Orange County Community College District, our goal as an academic community is to sustain a working environment that fosters and celebrates diversity, promotes and rewards excellence, and is welcoming to all. An exemplary academic community promotes an inclusive environment that best prepares our faculty, staff, and students to live, work, and contribute in a global society. The Plan reflects the District's commitment to equal employment opportunity and outlines the active steps that ensure nondiscriminatory practices.