Benefits Specialist

Job Title: Benefits Specialist

Department: Human Resources

Reports to: Benefits Manager

Location: Administration Building

Level/Status: Non-Exempt / Full-Time

Wage: $23.87 - $31.69

Open Date: January 22, 2025

Close Date: February 1, 2025

SUMMARY

The Benefits Specialist will be responsible for a variety of personnel related administrative duties which support the employee benefits and wellness functions of the Gun Lake Tribal Government. This position will coordinate all employee benefit and wellness related events as directed. This position will also maintain files and permanent records pertaining to employee benefits enrollment and beneficiary designation. The Benefits Coordinator works at the direction of the Benefits Manager and closely with other HR staff.

ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS

• Associate’s degree in human resources, Business or other related field and three (3) years direct experience in Human Resources, with demonstrated knowledge and experience with benefit administration.
• Working knowledge of employee benefit programs
• Demonstrated experience in coordinating events
• Proficient in Microsoft Office computer programs (competency examination required)
• Must be able to utilize critical-thinking skills to work independently and make decisions without direct supervision.
• Must demonstrate strong organizational skills; be detail-oriented, innovative, flexible, task-oriented, and able to prioritize tasks effectively.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with employees and community in written and verbal forms.
• Proven knowledge of commonly used Human Resources and benefits concepts, practices, and policies required.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include, but are not limited to the following:

• Maintain the highest level of confidentiality in all matters
• Ensures the highest level of compliance standards and deadlines are being supported and met
• Lead and coordinate the open enrollment process
• Communicate information to employees and coordinate various leave of absence policies
• Provide clerical and administrative support to the Benefits Manager, which may include:
  • Draft and edit documents and employee correspondence
  • Answer a multi-line phone system and receive incoming calls regarding Employee Benefits
  • Make photocopies, receive mail, scan documents, send, receive and distribute faxes
  • Assist in preparing correspondence for reports and large mailings
  • Complete data entry and upkeep records as directed
  • Compile, maintain, audit, and update employee benefit records, both physical and electronic
  • Create and maintain spreadsheets used for tracking data and trends
  • Maintain calendars and schedule appointments as appropriate
  • Attend and record meetings as requested
• Conduct Benefits Orientation for all new hires and assist employees with enrolling in benefit programs
• Coordinate all benefits and wellness related events and activities as directed
• Assist with creation and dissemination of benefits and wellness communications
• Assist with reconciliation of monthly premium statements
• Follow all policies and procedures when submitting department requisitions, ordering supplies and completing expense reports
• Assist with day-to-day operation of HR functions and duties which may include:
  • Perform customer service functions by responding to employee questions and requests for information
  • Cross train with the HR Staff to increase knowledge and proficiency in HR programs/tasks
  • Serve as back-up for Human Resources Specialist when needed
• Assist the Human Resources Staff with the planning, coordination and execution of department events
• Support Gun Lake Tribal Government sponsored events by participating in the planning and execution of events as requested
• Greeting Tribal Citizens and the public
• Maintain the appearance of Human Resources office area
• Other duties as assigned

OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Must have good public relations skills including being patient, courteous and reliable
• Must have good organizational skills and the ability to multi-task
• Ability to coordinate large and small events
• Must have a high level of accuracy and attention to detail
• Possess excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Flexible, highly organized and able to work independently
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and adjust to changes in a professional manner
• Ability to work in a team-orientated environment and maintain an effective team working relationships with co-workers
• Possess the ability to operate standard office equipment
• Excellent computer skills including proficiency in the use of Microsoft Office programs including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Publisher and Outlook
• Ability to correspond with individuals throughout all levels of government and intergovernmental organizations
• Ability and willingness to acquire the necessary knowledge, skills and training to perform the duties necessary for this position
• Must attend training as required/authorized by Tribal policy and procedures

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

• Occasional non-traditional hours including working evenings, weekends and holidays as assigned to meet program requirements and deadlines
• Frequently required to sit, stand, talk, hear, bend, lift and reach
• Occasionally required to lift items, up to 25 pounds
• Ability and willingness to travel, locally and out of state, for program requirements, meetings and continuing education
• Must possess a valid driver’s license and pass MVR insurance review

SECURITY SENSITIVE

This position will have access to information that is security sensitive and thereby subject to additional provisions.

Disclaimer

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. These statements are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required.

All applicants must be able to demonstrate their U.S, work authorization during the employment verification process. The pre-employment process also requires the ability to pass a criminal background investigation and drug/alcohol test.

Native American Preference

The Match-E-Be-Nash-She-Wish Band of Pottawatomi recognizes Native American preference in its hiring and employment policies.

EMPLOYER BENEFITS AND COMPENSATION
The Gun Lake Tribe offers a competitive base salary and the best benefits package around.

• Medical, dental, vision and telehealth coverage for employee and all dependents, with no employee premium!
• Paid Time Off and 15 paid Holidays
• Short-and-long term disability coverage
• Life insurance for the employee, spouse and their dependents
• Pension plan for Public Safety employees
• 401K/Roth retirement plan with employer matching contributions
• Employee Assistance Program
• Employee Wellness Program
• Voluntary Benefits: AFLAC and Flexible Spending Account, additional life insurance
• On-site gym, free memberships for entire household
• One hour paid lunch break

TO APPLY

You are required to register and apply through our online employment portal to be considered for this position.

https://gunlaketribe-nsn.gov/employment/

If you require assistance or to apply in person, please call 269.397.1780 to schedule an appointment.