Benefits Administrator - Fairfax, United States - George Mason University

George Mason University

Verified Company

Fairfax, United States

1 day ago

Posted by:

Mark Lane

beBee recruiter

Description

Fairfax, VA
Classified Staff

Opening on:
May 9 2024

Closing at:
May at 23:55 EDT

Department:
Human Resources

Classification:
HR Analyst 1

Job Category:
Classified Staff

Job Type:
Full-Time

Work Schedule:
Full-time (1.0 FTE, 40 hrs/wk)

Location:
Fairfax, VA

Workplace Type:
Hybrid Eligible

Pay Band: 04

Salary:
Salary commensurate with education and experience

Criminal Background Check:
Yes

About the Department:

Human Resources supports the University mission through the development and implementation of policies, programs, and practices that attract, retain, and reward faculty and staff.

About the Position:

The Benefits Administrator provides employee benefits administration to the University's employees, administers employee benefits programs within federal, state, and University guidelines, communicates with employees, resolves benefits-related issues, and collaborates with other University departments and external vendors.

Responsibilities:

Benefits Administration:

Administers employee benefits programs, including group health, dental, life, disability, and other programs offered at George Mason University to faculty and staff;
Advises and informs faculty and staff employees of the details of the University's benefits programs;
Conducts weekly benefits orientations for both new faculty and staff when needed;
Communicates and processes employee retirements for both faculty and staff;
Participates in outreach educational programs, such as Pre-Retirement Seminars;
Resolves benefits-related issues and responds to queries and requests promptly within 48 hours;
Maintains and creates records, reports, and documentation following federal, state, and provider regulations; and
Provides timely follow-up as needed to employees, University partners, and vendors.

Employee Extended Absence Management:

Advises employees on Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA), Virginia Sickness & Disability Program (VSDP) eligibility, and benefits;
Coordinates all Family Medical Leave, VSDP, and long-term disability actions between employees, departments, and external vendors/stakeholders; and
Keeps employees informed of changes to their benefits.

Retirement Management:

Conducts pre-retirement presentations to eligible employees;
Gathers data from university and state systems to determine retirement eligibility and the specific retirement plan to administer benefits accordingly;
Conducts one-on-one meetings with retirement applicants and beneficiaries about the retirement process, eligible benefits, and options;
Communicates with state, third-party vendors, and other HR representatives to gather information and resolve any issues;
Enters data into multiple University and state systems promptly for a smooth transition;
Administers benefits to all retirees and dependents under the Optional Retirement Plan;
Liaises with the financial institutions to verify and compile data for the administration of retirement benefits, as needed;
Maintains records of retirees and beneficiaries;
Maintains a solid understanding of the University's retirement policies and benefits;
Interprets financial data and applies it to retirement benefit plan policies and related documentation;
Works closely with employees over several months to ensure all documentation is submitted and data entered correctly and on time;
Provides excellent customer service while practicing patience and understanding in what can be an overwhelming transition for employees; and
Ensures employee data is organized.

Workers' Compensation:

Communicates and processes workers' compensation inquiries and claims;
Stays updated on extended and long-term cases;
Submits claims to the state's 3rd party claim administrator;
Assists the 3rd party administrator with gathering data and documentation for claim investigations and administration; and

Serves as the University's point of contact for state agencies, medical providers, and 3rd party vendors related to workers' compensation cases.

Required Qualifications:

Progressive experience in benefits administration in a large organizational setting (typically 2+ years);
Working knowledge of employee benefits administration and programs;
Working knowledge of state and/or federal regulations, policies, and/or procedures;
Demonstrated organizational skills, attention to detail, and commitment to quality customer service;
Demonstrated interpersonal skills;
Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing;
Ability to handle confidential data and personal situations with empathy and professionalism;
Demonstrated Microsoft Word and Excel skills; and
Ability to work effectively as a team player.

Preferred Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in an HR related field, or equivalent experience;
Customer service experience desired;
Experience working in a higher education environment;
Proficiency in Spanish; and
Experience with HRTS s