HR Benefits Specialist (Perm/FT/Benefits)

The Human Resources Benefits Specialist is responsible for assisting with the administration and interpretation of the County's Benefits Programs. Additionally, this position assists with the management of disability claims, leave of absence, coordination of modified duty and temporary workplace accommodations. *This position is 100% in person and does not offer a remote option.

Job Description:

Salary Range: $44,941.00-$121,736.00

BUDGETED SALARY: $48,000.00-$55,000.00

Essential Duties:

• Coordinates scheduling and processing of enrollment of voluntary benefits;
• Processes notifications to former County employee's regarding continuation and termination of their enrollment in benefits programs, mediates claim and enrollment issues for employees/retirees;
• Conduct Benefits Orientation and processes enrollment in appropriate HRIS system and with vendors;
• Coordinates various wellness events for County employees, conducts research to determine appropriate initiatives to meet the needs of employees, designs and distributes various materials to promote and drive engagement in initiatives;
• Provides advise and guidance to employees regarding the Family and Medical Leave Act and return to work procedures;
• Assists in coordination of Open Enrollment and the processing of benefit changes;
• Assists with counseling of employee with retirement and processes retirement applications with the State

Education and Experience:

A.A. degree in Human Resources or related field and three (3) years' experience in Human Resources and/or Benefits Administration

OR

High School Diploma or GED and five (5) years of responsible office experience. One (1) year of total experience in an HR office environment in the area of Benefits Services preferred.Years of Supervisory Experience: N/ACertifications, Licensures, and Examinations:Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Attention to detail;
• Ability to provide internal and external customer service in a courteous manor; Data entry;
• Proficient in the use of MS Office, such as Word, Excel, etc.;
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders;
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision;
• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing;
• Organizational skills including the capacity to anticipate issues and prioritize tasks, ability to manage multiple priorities or projects;
• Skilled listener, ability to practice actively listening;
• Knowledge of administrative and clerical procedures;
• Ability to manage conflict and tactfully handle complaints and difficult situations;
• Knowledge of employment related laws and regulations;
• Thorough knowledge of State pension plans, including eligibility standards and benefits, of contract provisions and requirements in relation to retirement; healthcare, life, deferred compensation and other related benefits;
• Must be discrete and have the ability to keep matters confidential;
• Work is primarily sedentary in nature with intermittent periods of lifting materials that may weigh up to 15 lbs.

SAFETY:Must comply with all Federal (OSHA), State of Maryland (MOSH), safety regulations and applicable Harford County safety policies, procedures, or manual as required for this position. COMPENSATION:Other compensation may include but is not limited to:

• Overtime
• Compensatory time
• Shift Differentials

BENEFITS:

Harford County offers an exceptional benefits package that includes:

• Health, Dental & Vision insurance
• Flexible Spending Accounts 
• State Retirement Plan and Deferred Compensation 
• Long Term Disability, and Life Insurance for Employee, Spouse, and Children
• Generous Leave Package & Paid Holidays
• Tuition Reimbursement

LICENSE & CERTIFICATION:A valid Class C non-commercial drivers license with no more than three (3) points.