Benefits Assistant, (B272035-1), 205, Health & Benefits

City of Laredo•Laredo, TX

About The Position

The Benefits Assistant performs routine Human Resources work and clerical services while providing technical support to the Health and Benefits division. The position supports employee benefits administration, FMLA leave management, and ADA accommodation processes, and helps ensure compliance with applicable policies and regulations. The role primarily provides customer service to employees and supports the planning, implementation, and administration of benefits programs for City employees and retirees. The position also assists with program planning and evaluation, coordination with third-party administrators and contractors, preparation of personnel reports and departmental documents, and maintenance of accurate benefits and payroll-related records. Work is performed in office and other environments and may involve outdoor exposure, travel by car, irregular or long hours, shift work, and weekends. The role may require driving a City vehicle and operating office and mechanical equipment.

Requirements

Associate's degree or 60 college hours from an accredited college or university in Business Administration, Human Resources, or a related field.
At least two years of experience in human resources, health and benefits, administrative work, or a related field.
Valid Texas Driver License; applicants with an out-of-state license must obtain a Texas Driver License within six months of employment.
Effectively communicate orally and in writing in both English and Spanish.
Use computer hardware, software, and technology, including Access, word processing, and spreadsheet programs such as Excel.
Maintain a good driving record.
Applicants who completed education outside the United States must submit a foreign credential evaluation from a NACES- or AICE-member agency verifying U.S. equivalency and comparable degree level.
Applicants offered employment must provide certified school transcripts and undergo a thorough background check.
Selected applicants must undergo a drug and alcohol test before employment.
Persons in safety-sensitive functions or positions are subject to random drug and alcohol testing.

Responsibilities

Assist with the administration and coordination of employee benefits, FMLA leave management, and ADA accommodation processes.
Develop and organize programs and activities for the Health and Benefits division.
Analyze employee and business needs for section programs and assist in developing short- and long-range plans.
Assist in reviewing, evaluating, and validating proposals.
Communicate information to management and others.
May assist in negotiating contract terms, monitoring contractor compliance, and resolving concerns.
Coordinate with third-party administrators, contractors, and others to resolve problems and implement programs.
Ensure compliance with City policies and procedures and City, state, and federal regulations.
May assist with personnel, payroll, benefits, and retiree matters.
Assist in planning, developing, designing, and implementing major benefits programs.
Provide customer service to employees.
Assist in creating, reviewing, and revising City of Laredo policies.
Enter employee benefits information into the benefits hub and ensure changes are accurate and timely.
May assist with coding employees' file maintenance forms.
Assist in preparing personnel reports and explain departmental policies and procedures.
Assist with additions, changes, and deletions related to health insurance.
Conduct position and salary surveys for non-civil service positions.
Prepare memorandums, statements, letters, reports, and other departmental documents.
Verify City employee employment information against City records and ensure benefits additions and deletions are updated.
Prepare and maintain benefit contribution deductions for City employees and process file maintenance forms to reflect changes.
Maintain good communication with staff, visitors, and business contacts and follow telephone etiquette.
Drive a City vehicle for City business when required.
Perform other duties as assigned.