Benefits Specialist

Search job title only Search entire posting Support the day-to-day administration of the District’s employee benefits programs, with a focus on ACA compliance and reporting. Provide customer service to employees, maintain accurate records, and ensure timely and compliant processing of benefits-related transactions. DUTIES and RESPONSIBILITIES: Assist with administering employee benefits programs such as group health, dental, life, disability, and medical reimbursement plans. Respond to employee benefit inquiries and concerns by phone, email, and in person, ensuring timely, accurate, and courteous resolution; refer complex or policy-related matters to the Benefits Coordinator as appropriate. Conduct benefits orientation meetings and assist new employees with enrollment. Assist with the annual enrollment process, including preparation and review of enrollments. Process mid-year benefit changes in accordance with established guidelines and timelines. Process employment separation forms to ensure accurate insurance end dates and premium deductions. Maintain employee benefits records and databases, ensuring accuracy and completeness of all information. Complete and submit employer statements for disability and life insurance claims. Provide assistance to employees regarding retirement programs, including TRS and voluntary savings plans (403(b) and 457), in accordance with established procedures. Administer payment and eligibility records for substitute, part-time, and temporary employees enrolled in the District’s group health plan. Approve electronic insurance payments as required, in collaboration with Payroll. Serve as the subject matter expert on ACA compliance, including eligibility, affordability, measurement/stability periods, mandatory IRS reporting, Marketplace notices, and TIN error resolution. Maintain knowledge of federal ACA requirements and related reporting regulations to ensure District compliance. Prepare, review, and maintain ACA-related employee data and reports, including eligibility, offer of coverage, affordability, coding, and Form 1095-C/1094-C to ensure accurate tracking and timely submission. Complete filings once approved by leadership. Coordinate with ACA vendors to ensure accurate data management, system configuration, and compliance with all reporting deadlines. Analyze ACA-related notices, including Health Insurance Marketplace and Employer Shared Responsibility Payment (ESRP) communications, and recommend appropriate actions for approval; carry out responses as directed. Support employees, Human Resources team members, and administrators with ACA questions or compliance issues, escalating complex matters when necessary. Monitor changes in ACA regulations and communicate relevant updates to the Director of Human Resources – Benefits for implementation and compliance. Assist with administrative retirement and service pin recognition events. Assist with employee health fairs and screening events. Assist with development and distribution of benefits communications. Assist with maintaining Human Resources website content related to benefits programs. Document and maintain procedures for assigned responsibilities. Compile, maintain, and file reports, records, and other required documentation. Serve as a member of the Employee Benefits Committee. Assist with new hire processing. Maintain confidentiality of information. Follow District safety protocols and emergency procedures. Perform other duties as assigned. EXPERIENCE: Experience in benefits administration, insurance, human resources, or a closely related field QUALIFICATIONS: Education/Certification: Special Knowledge/Skills: Working knowledge of employee benefits programs and applicable federal and state laws, including but not limited to the Affordable Care Act (ACA), Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA), Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), and section 125 of the Internal Revenue Code (IRC) Ability to interpret, present, and disseminate benefits information to individuals and groups Ability to manage multiple priorities and projects while meeting deadlines and maintaining accuracy Ability to exhibit initiative and work both independently and collaboratively Strong communication and interpersonal skills, both written and verbal Strong organization, analytical, and problem-solving skills Proficiency with HRIS systems and benefits databases, and with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook) and Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Slides) CONTACT INFORMATION: Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors: Tools/Equipment Used: Standard office equipment, including computer and peripherals Posture: Prolonged sitting; occasional bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting Motion: Frequent repetitive hand motions including keyboarding and use of mouse; occasional reaching Lifting: Occasional light lifting and carrying (less than 15 pounds) Environment: Work is performed in an office setting; may work prolonged or irregular hours; occasional districtwide and statewide travel Mental Demands: Maintain emotional control under stress; work with frequent interruptions SALARY: PAY GRADE: AB-2 - Minimum pro-rated salary - $64,344 #J-18808-Ljbffr Conroe Independent School District