HR Associate (Benefits)

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records and documentation for benefit programs including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and ancillary coverages.
• Coordinate the Personal Health Assessment (PHA) program in collaboration with the TPA; track wellness scores and Reasonable Alternative Standards, and communicate retroactive payroll adjustments.
• Administer employee benefit programs such as the Wisconsin Retirement System, ETF life insurance, FSA, and COBRA.
• Serve as a primary point of contact for employees, departments, and affiliates regarding benefit offerings and eligibility.
• Assist in planning and executing the annual Open Enrollment process.
• Prepare and distribute benefit communications and updates via announcements, presentations, and the intranet; conduct benefit orientations for new hires and newly eligible employees in conjuncture with TPA.
• Process benefit transactions, including enrollments, terminations, and dependent updates; ensure timely and accurate updates to HRIS and TPA systems.
• Complete employer verifications for government programs (e.g., BadgerCare) and respond to other benefit verification requests.
• Manage benefit enrollments resulting from court orders, including dependent additions; notify Payroll of changes in deductions or premiums.
• Reconcile benefit invoices and payroll deductions in coordination with the Benefits Manager, ensuring accuracy in billing and credit processing.
• Provide data and reports for census requests, audits, and special projects initiated by departments or external stakeholders.
• Coordinate COBRA notifications with the TPA and ensure compliance with notification timelines and requirements.
• Serve as a liaison to third-party vendors and employees, as assigned by the Benefits Manager, to resolve benefit-related concerns or disputes.
• Ensure compliance with bargaining agreements, County Code, and state and federal regulations regarding benefits.
• Stay current on federal, state, and local regulations (e.g., FMLA, ACA, IRS reporting).
• Continuously evaluate and improve internal processes, recommending efficiencies where applicable.
• Maintain confidentiality of employee information and records in compliance with County Code, state, and federal laws.
• Acts as a liaison for all leave of absence programs in the absence of the Benefits Manager.

Education and Experience:

• Associate degree required, with at least two (2) years of office experience; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience that provides the required knowledge and abilities.

• Working knowledge of ERISA, HIPAA, COBRA, FMLA, Section 125 plans, and related legislation.
• Familiarity with Wisconsin Retirement System, ETF benefits, and benefit administration best practices.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office products (Word, Excel, Outlook).
• Ability to analyze data, resolve issues, and make informed decisions using sound judgment.
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills with keen attention to detail.
• Ability to interpret and apply policies, contracts, legislation, and guidelines.
• Proficiency in handling calculations involving percentages, decimals, and fractions; basic understanding of financial reconciliations and report interpretation.
• Ability to lead, train, and influence while exercising discretion and creativity in problem-solving.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively with employees, vendors, departments, and the public.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and ensure the integrity of sensitive benefit data.
• Ability to work the required hours of the position.