Benefits Specialist

Description

The purpose of this class is to coordinate and support the daily administration of the County's various employee benefit plans which include health insurance, retirement, wellness, COBRA, FMLA and EAP.

Job Responsibilities

• Responds to benefit inquiries and complaints to ensure quick and courteous resolutions; maintains contact with providers, physicians, insurance companies, and employees to facilitate the proper and complete utilization of benefits.

• Administers benefits for employees and retirees and assists with and troubleshoots problems with third-party administrators.

• Prepares and distributes written communication to employees and retirees regarding benefit programs; maintenance of plan documents and benefit program changes.

• Manages the maintenance of benefit records, enrollment, application and claims records for plans.

• Monitors benefit program utilization via monthly cost reports and claims data. Recommends areas for improvement and cost savings.

• Verifies the calculation of monthly statements for all benefit programs relative to claims, premiums, costs and payments.

• Ensures full compliance with the provisions of all applicable laws and regulations.

• Evaluates physician certifications and FMLA applications for accuracy and completeness; ensures the timely notification of eligibility; communicates with employees and advises departments.

• Assists with new hire orientation process, benefit explanation, overview and enrollment assistance.

• Coordinates the annual benefit open enrollment.

• Prepares and schedules meetings designed to help employees obtain information and understand their benefit plans.

• Plans and coordinates employee appreciation and wellness events.

• Integrates the use of EAP, mental health and other behavioral programs as part of overall employee wellness.

• Prepares benefit plan policies, procedures and processes for consideration.

• Monitors and tracks Affordable Care Act (ACA) compliance.

• Performs other related work as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Requires two to four years of current experience in human resources, benefits or closely related function.

• Experience working with at least one complex human resources information system (HRIS) necessary. Workday experience preferred.

• Any equivalent combination of education and experience, which provides the requisite knowledge, skills and abilities will be considered.

Americans with Disabilities Act Compliance

• Galveston County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. ADA requires Galveston County to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities. Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss ADA accommodations with management.

Agency Galveston County

Department Human Resources Address 722 Moody Ave., 3rd Floor

Galveston, Texas, 77550