BENEFITS SPECIALIST

Salary Range: This position is assessed in band I, $26.48-$37.28, NHRS is hiring between $26.48-$29.17

SCOPE OF WORK:

To provide efficient, quality and accurate information and services to members and the various stakeholders of NHRS.

ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Performs accurate and timely mathematical computations and generates pension estimates for Group I & II under Split Benefit, Service, Vested Deferred, Additional Annuity, Ordinary/Accidental Disability retirements and Ordinary/Accidental Death benefits. Prepares and processes administrative denials.
• Delivers complex benefit information in accordance with NH legislative provisions and code of administrative rules in a variety of settings, including one on one member appointments and group sessions. Applies and explains legislative changes affecting NHRS members.
• Provides on-going member services through written and oral communications, responding via phone, face-to-face contact, email and written correspondence on a wide variety of complex topics.
• Provides comprehensive information to members and other staff; clearly communicates complex interrelationships between pension benefit, survivorship options, gainful occupation, taxation issues and post retirement medical benefits.
• Administers and analyzes the complex disability claim application process for ordinary and accidental disability retirements. Determines eligibility status; performs and analyzes multiple pension calculations; and performs long term case management process culminating in a review by the Board of Trustees. Has direct contact with physicians, independent medical examiners and employers to ensure effective processing of the claim.
• Analyzes death benefit options and ordinary and accidental pre-retirement death benefits, in compliance with statutory and legislative provisions. Acts as case manager for the complex death benefit administrative process.
• Organizes and delivers member outreach sessions, on and offsite estimate and filing workshops, and statewide general informational sessions in collaboration with the NHRS Public Information Office (PIO).
• May participate in appeal hearings as assigned.
• Performs business software testing for new build installations, as appropriate.
• Performs other appropriate and related duties as assigned by supervisor.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education: Bachelor’s degree with major study in human resources, business administration, human services, and accounting or another related field or equivalent experience. Each additional year of approved formal education may be substituted for one year of required work experience.

Experience: Minimum six years of experience in insurance, customer service or pension/benefits administration or other related field. Each additional year of qualified work experience may be substituted for one year of formal education.

License/Certification: Valid driver’s license.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: This position may require some in-state and out-of-state travel and the ability to work a flexible schedule, including periodic evening hours.

RECOMMENDED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND TRAITS:

• High degree of accuracy and detail orientation and expertise with mathematical calculations.
• Currently possesses or has capability to gain expert-level knowledge and understanding of relevant statutes and rules.
• Ability to work well with others and demonstrates flexibility to change.
• Demonstrates exceptional customer service skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Notary Public appointment.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• The employee must have the ability to maintain regular, punctual attendance consistent with the ADA, FMLA and other federal, state, and local standards.
• Communicate with others to exchange information (Constantly)

• Analyze accuracy, neatness, and thoroughness of the work assigned. (Constantly)
• Requires computer responsibility which involves extensive use of keyboard, mouse and monitor, and repeat motions that include the wrist, hands, and/or fingers. (Constantly)

WORK ENVIRONMENT/CONDITIONS:

• Dayshift hours primarily, although overtime may be required in meet project deadlines.
• Physically able to participate in training sessions, presentations, and meetings.
• Work related assignments on weekends are possible.