Conference Benefits Officer Northern Illinois Conference of The UMC

The Northern Illinois Conference of The United Methodist Church is seeking a detail oriented and service focused Part‑time Conference Benefits Officer to administer and manage employee benefit programs for active and retired clergy, lay employees, surviving spouses, and participating organizations. This position is responsible for the administration of health, pension, disability, death, flexible spending, health savings, and wellness benefit programs while serving as the primary liaison with Wespath, the United Methodist Church’s benefits provider. The ideal candidate is highly organized; exercises sound judgment and is committed to providing exceptional service while maintaining confidentiality. Key Responsibilities: Administer and oversee all employee and retiree benefit programs for clergy and lay employees, including health, Health Savings Accounts (HSA), life, disability, and pension plans, ensuring accurate eligibility, enrollment, and compliance with plan provisions. Monitor federal and state benefit regulations, employment laws, and industry best practices; develop, recommend, and implement policies and procedures to ensure ongoing compliance. Coordinate and deliver benefit communication, education, and training programs, including the preparation of materials and facilitation of new employee orientations, annual retirement seminars, and benefits presentations. Serve as the primary point of contact for clergy, church staff, and retirees regarding payroll and benefits, providing responsive, accurate, and professional customer service while resolving inquiries and issues. Conduct annual benefits cost analysis and budgeting to determine employer, participant, congregation, and Conference contribution requirements. Provide administrative support to the Annual Conference Board of Pension and Health Benefits, including meeting preparation, documentation, and follow‑up activities. Administer medical leave and disability benefit processes, including coordinating applications, documentation, and communication with employees and benefit providers. Assist the Conference Treasurer in preparing and submitting the annual Comprehensive Benefit Funding Plan (CBFP) to Wespath. Coordinate benefit and insurance updates with vendors following the death of plan participants, ensuring timely and accurate processing. Perform other duties and special projects as assigned by the Conference Treasurer/Director of Administration. Qualifications Qualifications : Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Finance, or a related field required. Minimum of five (5) years of experience in employee benefits administration or a related field, with strong knowledge of health, retirement, disability, and insurance programs. Excellent organizational skills with strong attention to detail, accuracy, and the ability to manage multiple priorities. Ability to handle confidential information with professionalism and discretion, and sound judgement. Strong analytical, problem solving, and decision making skills with the ability to work independently. Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to provide guidance and build effective relationships with diverse stakeholders. Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and ability to learn benefits administration systems and online vendor platforms. Working Conditions / Physical Requirements: Hybrid work schedule with in‑person attendance approximately two to three times per month. #J-18808-Ljbffr NC Conference of The United Methodist Church