Employee Benefits Specialist I

Job Details Job Location: Austin, TX 78701 Salary Range: $28.85 - $31.25 Hourly Position Overview Provide professional and timely customer service support to the Texas Association of Counties (TAC) Health and Employee Benefits Pool (Pool) members, including self-funded plans and other specialized arrangements. Coordinate membership renewal and new business activities associated with all coverages offered by the Pool. Responsible for maintaining accurate information related to assigned territories. Some travel required. Essential Job Functions Responsible for Pool members requiring personalized customer support, including members with self-funded plans or a Health Saving Account or Health Reimbursement Arrangement. Provide professional customer service to assigned Pool members, including officials and assigned Pool coordinator, and assist in resolving issues between Pool members and vendors. Collect and verify Pool member information and update the department’s records. Perform initial account setup and assist with updating benefits and rates for renewals. Assist with enrollment of new Pool members, including delivery of enrollment packets, contracts, and other information. Ensure Pool members’ coverage related documents are executed correctly and are saved electronically in the department’s records. Gather and organize underwriting information associated with the coverages offered by the Pool. Coordinate Pool member renewals with Employee Benefits Consultants throughout the year in a timely manner, including communicating with Pool members about contribution and financial information. Review bid specifications and requests for proposals (new business) to ensure accurate information is collected and collaborate with Employee Benefits Consultants to ensure timely response and delivery. Occasional on-site service visits to assigned members, including demonstrating web-based eligibility program and training members in the correct use of the system. Assist Pool members with enrollment meetings, providing necessary materials. Perform entry-level routine benefits program administration and assistance work. Works under moderate supervision with limited latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Demonstrate customer service soft skills, including good listening, clear communication, empathy, and ability to use positive language to diffuse tension from members and ensure effective and successful resolution. Learn current Pool coverage and programs, health care contracts, financial reports and laws applicable to the Pool’s coverages, including COBRA, PPACA, HIPAA and Medicare. Maintain expertise in current health insurance funding and benefit management methods, including self-funded administrative services only and fully-insured plans. Perform other duties as assigned. Qualifications High school diploma or equivalent and certification as Managed Healthcare Professional or other health insurance industry designation preferred. Bachelor’s degree in health, business, insurance or related field preferred. 2-3 years’ experience in a customer service or administrative position, in the human resources, medical, or health insurance field preferred. Other Skills & Abilities Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, and the ability to relate to persons with a variety of cultural, economic and educational backgrounds. High degree of professionalism in representing TAC in significant contacts with members. Proficiency in use of personal computer and Microsoft Office products including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Experience with data entry required. Knowledge of regulatory compliance principles and practices. Excellent time management and record keeping required. Valid Texas Driver’s License and a good driving record required; must be able to drive. Physical Requirements Position requires some travel; must be able to drive. Standing: Not required Sitting: All functions Walking: Not required Lifting: Not required Pushing or pulling loads: Not required Reaching overhead: Not required Kneeling/squatting: Not required Climbing stairs: Not required Climbing ladders: Not required #J-18808-Ljbffr Texas Association Of County Officials