What are the responsibilities and job description for the Sr Employee Benefits Specialist (5211) position at SEPTA?
Secure Your Future with SEPTA – A Leader in Transportation!
The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) is the sixth-largest transportation system in the U.S., connecting communities across a 2,200-square-mile service region. SEPTA is at the forefront of innovation in the transit industry, ensuring reliable and efficient services while driving economic growth in the Philadelphia region.
Only candidates who are authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship, will be accepted at this time.
We are proud to be recognized as:
2023 FORBES Best in State Employer
Philadelphia Employer of Choice for 2024
We are seeking to hire candidates for our Sr Employee Benefits Specialist (5211).
Opening Date: 07/30/2026
Closing Date: 08/15/2026
Job Grade: SAM 38
Salary Range: $73,164.00-$91,442.00
OVERALL DESCRIPTION
Sr. Employee Benefits Specialist is responsible for the administration and strategic support of SEPTA's retiree and employee benefits programs. They serve as a vital link between employees and insurance providers, ensuring that benefits are clearly explained, accessible, and compliant with all federal and state regulations. Coordinates the Authority's COBRA program and conducts eligibility audits to ensure that participants are enrolled in the proper plans and are making appropriate contributions. The Employee Benefits Specialist will ensure proper and timely delivery of benefits and issue resolution for participants.
SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES
- Administer all COBRA functions including enrollment, eligibility, termination, ageout, and all other COBRA related events and functions.
- Ensure adherence to federal and state laws, including but not limited to ACA, FMLA, and HIPAA.
- Presents at new employee orientations as scheduled, explaining benefit options, assisting the new employee with enrollment and participating in annual enrollment sessions.
- Resolves benefits-related claims, inquiries, and complaints.
- Partners with vendors, consultants, and internal stakeholders to ensure smooth planning and operations.
- Assists with annual renewals, audits, and compliance requirements.
- Supports benefits communications and employee education initiatives.
- Analyzes and interprets benefits data and provides insights to improve plan effectiveness.
- Answers complex benefits questions.
- Conducts medical and prescription (and other benefit) eligibility audits, follows up with corrections, and communicates changes to participants and vendors.
- Conducts dependent audits, obtains missing data, and enters them in mainframe. Follows up with non-responsive employees.
- Reviews and follows up on prescription drug rebate audits.
- Assists with the annual Form 1095-C production and distribution.
- Comply with all Authority and departmental safety and security policies and procedures as well as all applicable job safety responsibilities. Reports any safety concerns, compromises or hazards affecting operations, the public, self and/or other employees. Responsible for personal safety and is encouraged to promote the safety of others.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE
- Minimum of three (3) years of experience in employee benefits or related field of HR.
- Bachelor's degree in human resources, Business Administration, or Finance required.
- Experience with COBRA, HR Administration, auditing, vendor relations, interpreting employee benefits contracts provisions, medical benefits, and regulatory compliance including but not limited to HIPAA, FMLA, ACA.
- Must have excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Must have excellent customer relations skills.
- Must be able to use critical thinking skills to solve complex problems.
- Experience with Microsoft Office suite is required.
- Familiarity with human resources information systems as an end user is preferred.
Why Join Our Team? Enjoy Outstanding Benefits!
✅ Comprehensive Healthcare Coverage – Medical, prescription, dental, and vision plans with little to no employee premiums.
✅ Retirement Security – Participate in a Defined Benefit Pension Plan and a 457B Deferred Compensation Plan to build your financial future.
✅ Work-Life Balance – Enjoy paid parental leave, generous vacation time, and paid holidays to recharge and spend time with loved ones.
✅ Employee Wellness – Access wellness programs and resources to support your physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
✅ Invest in Your Growth – We offer tuition reimbursement to support your education and career advancement.
✅ Student Loan Assistance – Our positions qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program, helping you manage and reduce student debt.
✅ Free Travel Perks – Receive a FREE SEPTA Transportation Pass, giving you unlimited access to all SEPTA services!
Join us and take advantage of these incredible benefits while making a difference in your community!
Join the Best in Transit! Apply Today
Click Apply Now and take the next step in your career with SEPTA!
Have Questions? For more information, please visit How We Hire Careers Page.
SEPTA is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
SEPTA is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.
Nearest Major Market: Philadelphia
Benefits:
Pension Plan, Health Insurance, Vacation & Paid Time OffSalary : $73,164 - $91,442