Benefit Specialist I (Provisional)

Summary

Works closely with the Human Resources team to ensure strategies and policies meet business needs. Assists with the planning and administration of activities related to total rewards and all facets of Human Resources, including talent acquisition, training and development, internal mobility, diversity, equity and inclusion, talent and organizational development and employee/labor relations.

Evaluates and administers NYPA‘s employee benefit programs for active and retired employees and their dependents. Programs include retirement, insurance, paid time off, leave management, wellness and other health and welfare plans. Provides policy change recommendations as related to benefits, manages vendors and responsible for HIPAA compliance.

This role is a three (3) year long assignment.

Provisional employees are eligible to enroll in a range of benefits that can be customized to your individual and family needs such as medical, dental, vision, flexible spending accounts, and more. Additionally, you are eligible for a retirement plan, a 401(k)plan, and the employee assistance program. Provisional employees are also eligible for vacation, sick time, holidays, medical and parental leave.

Responsibilities

• A commitment to excellence in responding to and resolving employee and retiree benefit inquiries and issues
• Administer assigned benefits programs to ensure that benefits vendors properly administer benefits, including claims adjudication and customer service
• Organize the annual open enrollment activities; and oversee the scheduling of site Health Fairs
• Maintain knowledge of all benefits programs and act as back-up as needed
• Assist with the analysis, selection, and implementation of benefits vendors
• Work with payroll, IT and Digital HR to ensure the integrity of the benefits database system
• Communicate benefits information and monitor and update benefit guidebooks and benefit policies as needed
• Conduct new employee orientation on a rotating basis
• Provide assistance on projects and new initiatives for all benefit programs
• Assist with annual discrimination testing

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Willingness to continue education and training to learn about changing policies and legislation relating to employee benefits
• Strong research skills in a variety of medium to remain up to date on benefits trends and laws
• Strong analytical and quantitative skills
• Ability to work within a team environment
• Excellent communication skills and knowledge of benefit plans. Must be able to exchange accurate information.
• Demonstrated flexibility and ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously
• Ability to observe confidentiality
• Ability to work with all levels of the organization
• Excellent organization and time management skills with a strong attention to detail
• Working knowledge of relevant benefit regulations and laws (e.g., HIPAA, COBRA, ACA, FMLA, ERISA, DOL, and IRS)
• Expertise in Microsoft Office Word, Excel and PowerPoint
• Knowledge of HRIS systems, SAP Personnel Module preferred

Education, Experience and Certifications

• High School Diploma and 5 years benefits administration and claims resolution experience preferred, or
• Bachelor’s Degree in related field and 1 year of benefits administration and claims resolution experience preferred

Physical Requirements

• Up to 5% travel required primarily within NY State
• Ability to occasionally lift up to 20 lbs. and assist in setting up for events/programs
• Occasional ability to attend meetings/events outside of normal business hours