Confidential Specialist (Total Rewards Operations)

If you would enjoy working in a dynamic environment and are looking for an opportunity to become part of a stellar team of professionals, we invite you to apply online today.

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The position supports the NEA’s strategic objective to focus the energy and resources of its 3 million members toward the promotion of public education by providing highly-skilled technical, and paraprofessional support to the Human Resources (HR) department.

Position Summary: The Employee works as a member of NEA’s payroll and benefits operations team to deliver operational excellence across payroll, benefits, and retirement functional areas. In this role, the incumbent administers employee health and retirement plans, including providing open enrollment support, coordinating with vendors, and managing retiree accounts, while also resolving complex employee and retiree inquiries. Additionally, they execute the day-to-day processing of employee compensation, timekeeping, and leave reporting, auditing timesheets and leave balances to resolve variances and ensure accurate, timely payroll execution.  The Employee leverages Workday and other HR information systems to maintain accurate employee records, update data, and ensure system configurations support effective plan administration. To maintain compliance, they assist in internal and external audit preparation by gathering records, generating system reports, and maintaining documentation, all while working collaboratively within a team structure to share knowledge, streamline workflows, and uphold high standards of customer service.

Minimum Education Requirement: Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent with course work in the field of business accounting or benefits administration.  Minimum Qualifications: Minimum of three years high-level administrative and professional work which includes experience involving administration of a wide range of benefits programs using automated systems. Work experience must include communicating and explaining benefits information to plan participants. Proficiency with spreadsheet and word processing software and entering and maintaining benefits data within an automated system.  Experience with Benefit Plan audits and financial accounting.  Desirable Additional Qualifications: Course work in Human Resources or Business Management, Human Resources certifications or credentials such as Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS). Experience and skill using personal computers in Windows environment. Proficiency with Microsoft office suite and/or other computer systems.  Other Requirements: Experience applying major benefit laws such as ERISA and COBRA and regulations governing pension and other benefit plans. Familiarity with HRIS including reporting and data management.  Experience applying and communicating collective bargaining agreements.  Must be able to work extended hours, evenings and weekends on short notice. 

Selection Criteria

TIER 1: Demonstrated experience in the full range of benefits administration, e.g., counseling: communication and explaining detailed benefits information performing various calculations: preparing, analyzing, and reconciling reports; writing correspondence, articles and brochures; developing and conducting benefits orientations; resolving problems; and establishing procedures for efficiency of operations. Working knowledge of benefit laws and regulations (ERISA, ADEA, COBRA, etc.). Ability to read and interpret benefit plans and insurance contracts. Excellent Microsoft Office skills, including Excel and SharePoint. Demonstrated flexibility and effectiveness in handling multiple projects simultaneously under stringent timeframes and changing priorities.  Proficient analytical and report writing skills.  Excellent communication skills, both oral and written. Experience with automated benefits or Human Resources payroll/accounting systems, preferably Workday. Ability to handle confidential matters with discretion. Excellent attendance, references and/or performance reviews.  Skill in setting priorities and working in a high-pressure office.  TIER 2: Attention to detail and strong mathematical skills. Experience working in a team and/or collaborative work environment. Experience filing IRS 5500's and other government benefit forms. TIER 3: Experience working in a unionized environment. Continued course work in an employee benefits certification/accreditation program. Experience in other functional areas of Human Resources.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the following is provided:  The position involves skill in using a computer and/or laptop; oral and written communication skills; skills in proofreading and editing; use of clear and articulate speech; interpersonal relations skills; reasoning and problem-solving skills; ability to work in a fast-paced environment; ability to sit for long periods, stoop, bend, reach and carry light materials (up to 10 lbs.); and ability to travel by various methods of transportation, e.g., airplane, car.

NEA is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and encourages applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, age, sexual orientation, marital status, religion, or disability. Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal. To apply for this position or to search for other openings, please go to our jobs page at Careers at NEA (myworkdayjobs.com)  

NEA Participates in E-Verify. Read more here E-Verify Participation & Right to Work.

NEA complies with the DC Wage Transparency Act of 2023.