Benefits Specialist

SUMMARY Administer all employee benefit programs for the district. This role serves as the district expert for all benefit matters, ensures efficient administrative processes and high-quality service to internal and external stakeholders. The ideal candidate will demonstrate exceptional interpersonal skills, effective critical thinking and problem solving skills, strong data management capabilities, and a keen eye for accuracy and confidentiality. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (Other duties may be assigned.) Serve as primary contact for benefits' enrollments, changes, terminations, and inquiries from staff, applicants, and the public, providing clear communication, accurate documentation, and compassionate and timely guidance. Serve as primary contact for benefit vendors to process leave programs accurately. Maintain accurate employee records, databases, and digital files in compliance with district policies and legal requirements. Lead open enrollment periods and onboarding processes, including preparing and updating orientation materials. Responsible for maintaining and updating all information as it pertains to an employee's deductions. Processes Unemployment Claims, including managing disputes and appeals. Coordinate with finance and human resource personnel to maintain accurate personnel tracking. Perform enrollment reviews and benefits reconciliation problem solving. Develops and amends forms and procedures for the enrollment of employees into the benefits programs. Maintain confidentiality of sensitive information and uphold professional integrity at all times. Prepare correspondence and informational communications for staff. Prepare reports and HR-related documentation and analyze data as requested for annual requirements, financial reporting, and district needs; fulfill relevant data requests where appropriate. Works with Central Administration in developing and refining policies and procedures on employee benefits programs. Performs other duties as needed for the Business Office. SKILLS AND ABILITIES Strong knowledge of policies and laws regarding personnel and benefits administration. Familiarity and understanding of health, dental, life, unemployment, and disability insurance programs, and other employee benefits programs. Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to interact effectively across all levels of staff. High level of accuracy and attention to detail in all HR functions. Ability to manage multiple priorities and work both independently and as part of a team. Ability to understand, apply and use personal computers and effectively navigate spreadsheets. Ability to develop effective working relationships with students, staff and the school community. Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing. Ability to perform duties with awareness of all district requirements and Board of Education policies. EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE Any combination of education and experience providing the required skill and knowledge for successful performance would be qualifying. Typical qualifications would be equivalent to: Associate's or Bachelor's Degree in Human Resources or related field, with coursework in business, math, and payroll or benefits concepts. Previous human resources experience in a school, university, or nonprofit setting preferred, but not required. TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT $28 to $34 per hour. Competitive benefits including health, dental, and paid sick and vacation leave. Monday - Friday; 8 hours daily; year-round; in-person office setting. Maine State Criminal History Record Check (CHRC) authorization required, which cost $70. Website: #J-18808-Ljbffr