Benefits Administration Advisor

SUMMARY:

The Benefits Administration Advisor position is responsible for directing and planning the day-to-day operations of group benefits programs (group health, dental, vision, short-term and long-term disability, workers' compensation, life insurance, travel and accident plan, flexible spending plan, retirement plans, etc.). This position provides excellent customer service and designs quality benefits plans. The administrator continually investigates new benefits programs, improves existing programs, and supervises and monitors benefits administration.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Education: Bachelor's degree in human resource management or related field, and three to five years of related benefits or employee benefits administration experience.

Licensure: N/A

Certification: SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP and CEBS professional designations preferred.

Experience: Two years' experience in a mental health care environment preferred.

Knowledge/ Skills:

• Computer proficiency and technical aptitude with the ability to use Microsoft products, including PowerPoint; experience with HRIS and benefits databases.
• Proven ability to work effectively in a team environment with associates.
• Effective planning and priority setting. Ability to manage several complex projects simultaneously while working under pressure to meet deadlines.
• Strong analytical skills and a thorough knowledge of plan designs.
• Ability to understand, evaluate and make judgment on proposals (RFPs).
• Knowledge of benefits contract language.
• Knowledge of all pertinent federal and state regulations, filing and compliance requirements, both adopted and pending, affecting employee benefits programs, including the ACA, ERISA, COBRA, FMLA, ADA, Medicare, OBRA, and Social Security and DOL requirements.
• Excellent communication and organization skills.

EQUIPMENT:

Computer, fax, copier and any other equipment required to perform the functions of the position.

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Research employee benefits plans and vendors to identify those that present the best value.
• Design, recommend and implement new benefits programs. Examine possible plan designs and benefits cost changes.
• Negotiate with vendors and administrators for best plans, options and rates.
• Serve as primary contact for plan vendors and third-party administrators.
• Coordinate transfer of data to external contacts for services, premiums and plan administration.
• Evaluate and revise internal processes to reduce costs and increase efficiency.
• Document and maintain administrative procedures for assigned benefits processes.
• Ensure compliance with applicable government regulations. Ensure timeliness and accuracy of required reporting and fees.
• Coordinate daily benefits processing. Handle enrollments, COBRA, terminations, changes, beneficiaries, disability, accident and death claims, rollovers, QDROs, QMCSOs, distributions, loans, hardships and compliance testing.
• Oversee maintenance of employee benefits files, maintain group benefits database and update employee payroll records.
• Gather employee data and oversee the processing of monthly billings and the preparation of vouchers for payment of administrative fees for all group plans.
• Allocate group health and dental claims monthly and review quarterly.
• Audit the accuracy and performance of functions performed by benefits staff.
• Analyze current benefits, evaluating the use, services, coverage, effectiveness, cost, plan experience and competitive trends in benefits programs, and identify the company's stance.
• Perform plan audits. Prepare, collect and organize data for actuarial assessments. Review data in conjunction with actuarial evaluation task forces.
• Review both short- and long-range cost estimates/projections and relevant statistical analyses regarding modifications in benefits programs and implementation of new programs.
• Survey industry trends. Complete benefits surveys and review information obtained from the results. Analyze complex benefits information. Forecast trends and assist with future benefits designs. Develop specific recommendations for review by management.
• Monitor administrative costs of benefits programs and recommend cost containment strategies, including alternative methods for administration and funding. Prepare budgetary recommendations and assist in the monitoring, verifying and reconciling of budgeted funds.
• Provide customer service support to internal and external customers. Develop communication tools to enhance understanding of the company's benefits package.
• Design and distribute materials for benefits orientations, open enrollment and summary plan descriptions. Provide training and support to group benefits associates, home office associates and the field staff.
• All other duties as assigned

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• 1. Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.

• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at a time.

PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES:

Although each position has its own unique duties and responsibilities, the following listing applies to every employee. All employees of the organization are expected to:

1. Support the organization's mission, vision, and values of excellence and competence, collaboration, innovation, commitment to our community, and accountability and ownership.

2. Exercise necessary cost control measures.

3. Maintain positive internal and external customer service relationships.

4. Demonstrate effective communication skills by conveying necessary information accurately, Plan and organize work effectively and ensure its completion.

5. Meet all productivity requirements.

6. Demonstrate team behavior and must be willing to promote a team-oriented environment.

7. Represent the organization professionally at all times.

8. Demonstrate initiative and strive to continually improve processes and relationships.

9. Follow all Frontier Health rules, policies and procedures as well as any applicable laws and standards.

Frontier Health is a Trauma-Informed Workplace.

At Frontier Health, we prioritize a culture of safety, trust, support, and inclusion. As a trauma-informed workplace, we foster a supportive environment where every employee is valued, supported, and empowered to thrive.