Benefits Assistant

About the role

The Benefits Assistant provides administrative and operational support for the University’s employee benefits programs. The position serves as a first point of contact for routine employee inquiries, assists with benefit transactions, maintains accurate records, coordinates communications, and supports departmental processes that contribute to an efficient and positive employee experience.

Responsibilities

• Provides operational support for the execution of University benefit plans and leave programs.
• Serves as the initial point of contact for routine employee benefit inquiries by phone, email, and in person, providing accurate information and directing more complex issues to the appropriate Benefits staff.
• Maintains the Benefits shared email inboxes, triages requests, researches routine questions, and ensures timely follow-up.
• Processes employee benefit transactions including enrollments, qualifying life events, dependent verification, terminations, beneficiary updates, and other benefit-related changes.
• Reviews benefit documentation for completeness and accuracy and follows up with employees to obtain missing information.
• Supports the administration of tuition remission, including processing applications and awards, verifying eligibility, communicating with employees, organizing information for the Graduate Tax Waiver committee, and maintaining accurate records.
• Captures and distributes benefit communications, educational materials, and annual notices.
• Aids in the preparation of materials, coordination of employee communications, scheduling informational sessions, and assisting employees during the annual Open Enrollment process.
• Assists with benefits billing, invoice reconciliation, and documentation required for internal controls and audits.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree
• Minimum of one (1) year of administrative experience, preferably supporting Human Resources, employee benefits or a related administrative function
• Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate professionally and compassionately with employees
• Strong organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail and accuracy
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities while meeting deadlines
• Ability to maintain confidential and sensitive employee information with discretion
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Word, Outlook, and Teams
• Strong communication skills
• Ability to work collaboratively with colleagues across Human Resources, Payroll, and other University departments
• Demonstrated problem-solving skills and commitment to continuous process improvement