Benefits Specialist I

The referenced pay range represents the minimum and maximum compensation for this job. Individual annual salaries/hourly rates will be set within the job's compensation range, and will be determined by considering factors including, but not limited to, market data, education, experience, qualifications, expertise of the individual, and internal equity considerations.

Responsibilities

Counsels University staff, faculty, retirees and supervisors concerning University benefit programs. Administers programs such as Health Care, Dental, Flexible Spending Accounts, Life Insurance, Tuition, and Retirement. Makes recommendations for improvements in procedures.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Counsels faculty, staff, and retirees as to the University's benefits plans and practices. Discusses personal or other special problems related to benefits and assists in their solution. As necessary, obtains special information or help from, or refers individuals to, other sources of assistance and counsel within or outside the University. Describes options, special procedures, or administration actions under the University benefit programs to meet the needs of particular individuals or departments.
• Initiates and reviews enrollment application forms, applications for benefit changes, claims for benefits, data processing, carrier records and reports for completeness and accuracy. Assists individuals to obtain supporting documents and reviews for adequacy.
• Processes forms through appropriate University departments. Advises carriers of changes. Adjusts discrepancies and resolves special problems. Maintains required records and reports of activities.
• Prepares special reports, including recommendations for accommodation of individual problems or adjustment. Observes operation of benefits program and reactions of individuals to it.
• Assists with the design and preparation of benefit booklets and pamphlets.
• Conducts and coordinates the schedule for benefit information sessions as appropriate.
• Other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor's degree and 1 year of related experience in benefits and insurance required
• Or equivalent combination of education and experience

The University of Rochester is committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving an inclusive and welcoming culture to advance the University’s Mission to Learn, Discover, Heal, Create – and Make the World Ever Better. In support of our values and those of our society, the University is committed to not discriminating on the basis of age, color, disability, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, military/veteran status, national origin, race, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, citizenship status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law (Protected Characteristics). This commitment extends to non-discrimination in the administration of our policies, admissions, employment, access, and recruitment of candidates, for all persons consistent with our values and based on applicable law.