SOUTHEAST POLK COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT
Job DescriptionTitle: Benefits Specialist
Qualifications:

• Associate's Degree or at least two years of equivalent work experience in human resources, business, accounting, or related fields is required.
• Must exhibit an understanding of the concepts, principles, and procedures of benefits administration.
• Knowledge of computer programs such as the EASE benefits administration program or related applications.
• Knowledge of principles and processes for providing quality customer and personal services.
• Strong Microsoft Excel or Google Workspace skills and experience.
• Must possess effective human relations skills, personal initiative, and a collaborative work style.
• Desire to expand job knowledge and improve performance.
• Knowledge of HR laws and regulations.
• Knowledge of union contracts.
• Demonstrate a customer-friendly attitude toward others.
• Ability to act with integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality.

Reports to: Executive Director of Business Services and Executive Director of Human Resources
Job Goal: To accurately and in a timely manner assist in administrating the district’s employee benefits programming. This job is distinguished from similar jobs as it requires high confidentiality, skills, and organization. The performance responsibilities, as shown below, represent only the key areas of responsibility; specific position requirements will vary depending on the needs of the building.
Performance Responsibilities:

• Oversee the employee benefits program, including employee counseling, technical research, and issue analysis; coordinate benefits programs, including but not limited to health, dental, vision, and disability insurance.
• Oversee the Section 125 flexible spending account program and other supplemental insurance programs.
• Submit COBRA and retiree employment notifications and reconcile with insurance plan enrollments.
• Submit long-term disability and life insurance claims.
• Input the first report of injuries and manage workers’ compensation records; follow up with injured employees to provide support and consultation.
• Lead all insurance committee meetings and assist with benefit plan development.
• Serve as the wellness coordinator and work with necessary staff to develop wellness plans and budgets.
• Interpret and clarify benefit summary questions for plan participants.
• Establish relationships with insurance vendors and consultants; work with vendors to prevent problems and resolve customer service issues.
• Promote and support the District's overall mission by demonstrating courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with the public and staff; act in a manner that promotes a harmonious and effective workplace environment.
• Coordinate the creation and submission of the annual ACA report and employee 1095s.
• Organize and present information at annual open enrollment meetings.
• Prioritize and schedule work tasks.
• Produce quality, accurate work.
• Maintain an effective organizational system.
• Demonstrate initiative and flexibility to adjust to unexpected changes in work demands.
• Maintain confidentiality.
• Interpret, apply, and explain applicable laws, codes, and regulations.
• Prepare clear and concise reports, correspondence, and other written materials.
• Exhibit initiative and independent judgment within established procedural guidelines.
• Prepare items for the School Board if requested.

Physical Demands:

• Must be capable of sitting throughout the work day.
• Must be able to work with interruptions during a work shift.

Terms of Employment: 12-month contract as determined by the Board of Education
Evaluation:
This job's performance will be evaluated per the provisions of the Board of Education.
Disclaimer: The statements of this job description are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel in this position. These statements are not intended to limit or in any way modify the right of any supervisor to assign, direct, and control the work of employees under his or her supervision.
It is the policy of the Southeast Polk Community School District not to illegally discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, disability, religion, creed, age (for employment), marital status (for programs), genetic information (for employment), sexual orientation, gender identity and socioeconomic status (for programs) in its educational programs and its employment practices. There is a grievance procedure for processing complaints of discrimination. If you have questions or a grievance related to this policy please contact, Joseph M. Horton, Associate Superintendent, Affirmative Action Coordinator, Equity Coordinator, and Title IX Coordinator, Southeast Polk District Office, 407 8th St. SE, Altoona, IA 50009, (515)-967-4294, joseph.horton@southeastpolk.org. Inquiries or grievances may also be directed to the Iowa Civil Rights Commission, Des Moines, IA, 50319-0201, (515) 281-4121; or the U.S. Department of Education, Region VII Office of Civil Rights, 500 West Madison Street, Suite 1475, Chicago IL 60661.