Benefits Specialist

Human Resources Benefit SpecialistIn compliance with state and federal laws, Newton public schools are committed to equity, anti-racism and a nondiscrimination policy for students, employees and prospective applicants. All educational and employment determinations are based on an individual's qualifications and achievements without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, pregnancy, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, ancestry, homelessness, physical or mental disability, veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by state and/or federal statute.Summary:The Human Resources Benefits Specialist has the primary responsibility for the administration of all benefits offered by the City of Newton for both active and retired employees. Works collaboratively within the HR team and Newton Public Schools to provide support for other day-to-day operational HR services and designated projects. Additional support may include; onboarding, recruitment, diversity, staffing, and other HR related areas.Qualifications:Required Qualifications: Bachelor's Degree and a minimum of two to five years Human Resources experience. Ability to resolve a multitude of varying and complex problems with timely follow-through. Excellent oral and written communication skills. Demonstrates outstanding employee relations skills. High level of initiative and collaboration. Attention to detail at macro and micro levels. Solid computer proficiency, particularly with Microsoft Office and Google Workspace. Experience with data analysis, manipulation, and management. Must be able to maintain excellent organizational skills with regard to timelines and deadlines. High level of confidentiality. Must be able to contribute to a positive work climate. Desired Qualifications: A Master's Degree in HR related field, or HR certification (SPHR/PRH) preferred Experience working in an educational setting, working with unions and associated contracts, and proficiency in HRIS systemsEssential Job Duties and Responsibilities (Not Limited To):This positions' primary responsibilities are:Provide customer service to employees, administration, and retirees via phone, emails, and in-person in a timely manner.Administer all aspects of offered benefits to active employees and retirees including changes, enrollments, and terminations. Benefits include: health, dental, life and disability insurance, FSA, annuities, and COBRA.Work closely with the City of Newton Human Resources Office during Open Enrollment periods and to ensure compliance of the City of Newton's benefits policies and procedures.Ensure that announcements and documentation regarding benefits are produced and distributed in a timely manner to all active employees and retirees.Ensure that all deduction rates are accurate and updated in the City of Newton's HRIS and the Massachusetts Teacher Retirement System (MTRS) computer systems and those accurate amounts for all benefits are deducted from employee's paychecks and retiree pension checks.Work closely with representatives from the health, dental, and disability insurance companies to ensure proper coverage and deductions for active employees and retirees.Conduct frequent benefits' audits to ensure the accuracy of enrollment, terminations and deductions for active employees and retirees. Utilizing Excel spreadsheets, data reports from the HRIS system, to analyze data for impact with regard to department and organizational objectives.Consistent, reliable and punctual attendance.Prepare documentation for sick leave bank applications, monitor process.Provide consultation on routine legal and regulatory standards such as FMLA, Wage & Hour and ADA.Responsible for implementing "other job related" duties as needed.This positions' other responsibilities may include:Consulting via phone, email, and in-person on a wide array of responsibilities, including policy and procedures, collective bargaining agreements, employee relations, onboarding, and other human resources functions.Ensuring that all pre-employment requirements are met, including the verification of required licenses, background checks, completion of all necessary paperwork and input of information into HRIS system which will require a high level of attention to detail.Work Environment & Physical Requirements:This position is located in a high volume, fast paced, open-team office environment, where all staff have shared administrative and independent responsibilities. Regularly required to walk, stand, sit, talk, and hear. Lift/move objects weighing up to 25 pounds. Ability to view computer screens and work for extended periods of time. Ability to operate a keyboard and calculator at an efficient speed. The physical demands described here 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 functions.