Reporting directly to the HR Benefits Manager, HR Benefits Specialist is responsible for the administration, implementation, and compliance of Lehman College and CUNY policies and regulations for the Benefits functions.
In addition to the CUNY Title Overview, responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:
Supervises and administers employees' benefits orientation and programs including but not limited to health insurance plans, pension plans, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, supplemental annuity accounts, dental programs, employee assistance programs (EAP), leave and transit benefits.
Assist with activities related to worker???s compensation and unemployment insurance.
Maintains an in-depth understanding of CUNY rules and regulations, relevant laws and guidelines, collective bargaining agreements, and College policies, and applies these to his/her areas of responsibility.
Advises faculty and staff on Human Resources benefits policies and procedures; responds to inquiries and provides timely resolution of issues with a high level of customer service.
Provides retirement information and determines eligibility for retiree health benefits.
Facilitates and conducts orientation sessions/workshops for new employees and informational sessions as needed.
Manages the data integrity of benefits records and provides assistance with related auditing activities.
Serves as the liaison with CUNY Central Benefits and Payroll Offices, TIAA, New York City Teachers' Retirement System (TRS), and New York City Employees Retirement System. (ERS), Office of the PSC Welfare Fund and other welfare funds, employee assistance program (EAP) and health insurance vendors.
Assists the HR Benefits Manager in special projects and performs related duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor's Degree and four years' related experience required.
Experience in Human Resources department of City of University of New York (CUNY) College, or unionized higher education
environment preferred.
In-depth knowledge and experience in benefits administration
A strong work ethic and ability to maintain confidentiality and safeguard employee information
Ability to interact and work collaboratively on a team in assisting diverse faculty and staff members
Excellent customer service, interpersonal, oral and written communication skills
Ability to interact with all levels of staff exhibiting professional discretion, confidentiality, and high ethical standards
Ability to take direction and work proactively in a team environment
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Power point, and Access), Outlook, and PeopleSoft orother Human Resources Information System
CUNY TITLE OVERVIEW
Organizes and provides employee benefits programs for faculty and staff and coordinates benefits matters on behalf of a College or Unit.
Counsels and assists staff on employee benefits matters
Designs, creates, and conducts workshops and employee meetings related to benefits and benefits changes, including the annual open enrollment period
Administers College benefits, providing information to carriers, retirement systems, welfare funds, and others as needed, managing data accuracy and completeness
May coordinate complex programs, such as worker's compensation or leaves of absence
Compiles data, monitors benefits statistics, prepares required and ad hoc reports, and conducts routine periodic audits of data entry for the College, CUNY Central, and outside parties as needed
Represents the College at University benefits related meetings
Develops and maintains employee benefits manuals, newsletter, policy descriptions, and other needed materials; maintains benefits-related information on College web site
Maintains accurate, confidential employee records
Performs related duties as assigned.
Job Title Name: HR Benefits Specialist
CUNY TITLE
Higher Education Assistant
FLSA
Non-exempt
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
Salary commensurate with education and experience. $70,238 -$86,645
CUNY's benefits contribute significantly to total compensation, supporting health and wellness, financial well-being, and professional development. We offer a range of health plans, competitive retirement/pension benefits and savings plans, tuition waivers for CUNY graduate study and generous paid time off. Our staff also benefits from the extensive academic, arts, and athletic programs on our campuses and the opportunity to participate in a lively, diverse academic community in one of the greatest cities in the world.
HOW TO APPLY
Visit www.cuny.edu, access the employment page, log in or create a new user account, and search for this vacancy using the Job ID or Title. Select "Apply Now" and provide the requested information.
Candidates must attach a resume, cover letter, and three professional references (name, title, organization, and contact information).
CLOSING DATE
December 6, 2023
JOB SEARCH CATEGORY
CUNY Job Posting: Managerial/Professional
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
CUNY encourages people with disabilities, minorities, veterans and women to apply. At CUNY, Italian Americans are also included among our protected groups. Applicants and employees will not be discriminated against on the basis of any legally protected category, including sexual orientation or gender identity. EEO/AA/Vet/Disability Employer.
The Lehman College campus is located in Bronx, New York and is a Senior College within the City University of New York (CUNY) system. Lehman is the only senior college of The City University of New York (CUNY) located in the Bronx and is recognized as a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI). Lehman serves a diverse population of more than 14,000 undergraduate and graduate students. The College serves mainly undergraduate students preparing them for employment, the professions and further study. Service to the college, university and community is part of the mission as is a clear commitment to student engagement including advisement. Opportunities are available for faculty development and travel awards. Lehman College and CUNY funding is available through competitive grants for scholarship and professional development support.