Benefits Retiree Specialist II

The Benefits Retiree Specialist works in the Office of Human Resources (OHR) and serves the University community by providing quality service to our employees. This position plays a key role in supporting the University Retirement programs, including administration support to pension and defined contribution programs, and explaining benefits to employees. Provides reporting analysis, technical solutions, and problem-solving support related to employee benefits offerings. Provide operational expertise and solutions on special projects and benefit programs.

Location and Work environment: This position is hybrid, with an expectation of working onsite approximately one (1) day per week. The hybrid schedule is subject to change at the discretion of the organization based on business and operational needs.

Work Schedule: Standard business hours, Monday through Friday

Primary Responsibilities:
Retirement Administration (60%)

• Understanding of laws, regulations, and company policies related to retirement pension, defined contribution plans and benefits
• Ensure compliance with company policies and controls, and with the laws, regulations and rules issued or enforced by state and Federal regulatory authorities on the subject of program administration, reporting, disclosure and filing requirements
• Coordinate payments and invoices as needed. Prepare journal entries and compile supporting documentation
• Resolve high-level benefit case issues through review of data, analysis, recommendations, and escalating where necessary
• Assess departmental workflows and processes and recommend changes that allow for greater efficiency
• Assists in the implementation or administers the organization's benefits programs
• Resolve complex issues. Ensures consistent application of provisions and compliance with applicable laws and regulations. Escalates issues to the management team as needed to assure prompt and accurate resolution. Identifies root cause of issues and leads issue resolution efforts
• May conduct training for others

Data Management and Analysis (40%)

• Interpret financial data and apply it to benefits plans, policies, and related documentation
• Formulate and analyze reporting within Human Resources Information systems and external benefit vendors for processing benefits and researching errors
• Conduct benefit plan audits and reconciliation through applicable queries and error reports
• Process enrollments, events, and complete data entry as needed
• Main point of contact for internal and external audits

Minimum qualifications:

• BA/BS degree in Human Resources or related field plus two years of professional HR retirement-related work experience, or a combination of related education and professional HR work experience to equal six years.

Preferred qualifications:

• Two or more years of benefit plan experience, including plan sponsor, consulting, or administration experience with retirement plans.
  

The Office of Human Resources (OHR) at the University of Minnesota partners with the campus community to support a strong, diverse workforce that drives the University's mission. We are guided by a vision to create a workplace where people feel connected, supported, and successful. Our approach is grounded in our core values of integrity, service, innovation, collaboration, and responsibility.

Pay Range: $58,000- $63,000 annually; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor Represented Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

For a completed application, please include a resume and cover letter.

This position will remain open until filled.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).