Benefits Specialist - Full Time -Days

Mohawk Valley Health System•City of Utica, NY

2d•$56,010 - $89,616•Onsite

About The Position

The Benefits Specialist is responsible for researching, investigating, teaching, and assisting with the administration of all benefits programs, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short- and long-term disability, COBRA and all voluntary benefits. This is a highly visible customer service position within the Human Resources department and requires excellent communications and follow-up skills. This position uses strong analytical, customer service and technical skills with a proficiency in software, benefit platforms/systems including a working knowledge of Microsoft Office.

Requirements

Associate's degree in Human Resources, Business or related field, but relevant job experience and/or other training/certification may be substituted for the education or degree.
Two years' experience in Benefits administration.
At least two years' experience working with HR information technology.
Excellent written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills.
Excellent organizational and time management skills.
Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
Excellent customer service skills.
Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office, especially Microsoft Excel.
Ability to occasionally work outside of normal working hours to meet employee needs.
Ability to travel to offsite locations within reasonable distance as needed – not on a regular basis.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree in human resources or related field of study.
Prior experience with payroll administration, DayForce, or other API file feeds.
SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) or SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) certification credential.

Responsibilities

Processes and analyzes all employee benefits administration transactions in a timely and accurate manner.
Assists with new-hire orientation, benefits explanations and onboarding for all employees including leaders, providers and staff.
Performs quality checks and audits to verify benefits-related data is correct in all HR related systems.
Assures that all benefit related information is kept confidential per Mohawk Valley Health System confidentiality policies and only shares information as appropriate and necessary.
Assists employees regarding benefits claim issues and plan changes, returning calls and emails within a 24-hour business window to acknowledge receipt of the message. Thoroughly researches and communicates resolutions back to the employee within a 48-business hour window, whenever possible, in accordance with department business standards.
Becomes well-versed and knowledgeable about all Mohawk Valley Health System benefits plans and can explain them adequately to staff.
Understands when it is appropriate to elevate benefits-related questions to a leader or another benefits specialist.
Understands and is familiar with the various different benefits offerings from each unique union contract and can accurately explain the benefits options to union employees.
Understands all leave-of-absence types and internal processes for disability, medical, personal, FMLA, NYPFL, worker’s compensation, etc.
Understands, communicates and troubleshoots PTO related inquiries and elevates problems as appropriate.
Works closely with Payroll, HRIS and Recruitment teams.
Maintains appropriate time-management skills and asks for help as needed.
Supports all Human Resources team members, participating in team meetings, team events and modeling Mohawk Valley Health System Code of Conduct and Standards of Behavior.
Keeps leadership informed of issues, concerns and progress towards goals. Maintains professional, polite, customer-focused attitude and works as part of a cohesive Benefits and Human Resources Team.
Supports colleagues in achieving objectives and contributes to team goals.
Performs related duties as assigned.