Duke University Job Description:
BENEFITS SPECIALIST (0173)


Job Title: BENEFITS SPECIALIST 

Job Code: 0173 

FLSA:

Job Level: 13 

Revised Date: 06/30/2024  

Job Family: JF 03 

Occupational Summary

Perform a variety of administrative and clerical duties involved in the delivery of employee benefits to University and Health System personnel. The position requires the application of HR policies in the areas of HR, pay and benefits and is responsible for providing customer service response to inquiries and escalated issues. In addition the Benefits Specialist will provide special project support (e.g. open enrollment) in coordination with the Benefits Administration & Communication Manager and will also provide support to the Human Resource Information Center (HRIC) data management team on complex benefits transactions as needed.

Work Performed

Act as a customer service consultant handling more complex issues requiring specialized benefits knowledge, escalating cases to a Benefits Analyst when appropriate.

Assist employees in the completion of all necessary forms to enroll in or make changes to Duke benefit programs.

Perform benefits administration activities to support 'core' transaction processing including, but not limited to health and welfare benefits enrollment, retirement, and educational benefits.

Identify communication and operational issues arising during day to day administration activities / contact with customers and propose solutions to the Human Resource Information Center (HRIC) Manager and the Benefits Administration and Communciations Manager as appropriate.

Assist with group presentations explaining details of specified benefit programs for new hire orientation along with other educational initiatives.

Provide technical support and guidance to HRIC staff, sharing technical and legislative knowledge to ensure staff are up to date.

Seek to continuously develop and improve levels of knowledge and expertise, coordinating with the Benefits Administration & Communication Manager for training as required.

Make recommendations for process improvements to continuously improve efficiency and customer service.

Provide support to Benefits Manager and Plan Managers for special projects, including open enrollment, annual benefit statement production, performing research and other tasks as needed

The above statements describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this classification. This is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required of personnel so classified.

Required Qualifications at this Level

Education/Training:

B.A. from an accredited institution preferably in Human Resource Management or a related field

Practical and extensive experience will be considered in lieu of a degree

 

Experience:

1-2 years experience in employee benefits / HR

Proficient in computer software and latest electronic office technology

OR AN EQUIVALENT COMBINATION OF RELEVANT EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE

 

Skills:

 

The intent of this job description is to provide a representative and level of the types of duties and responsibilities that will be required of positions given this title and shall not be construed as a declaration of the total of the specific duties and responsibilities of any particular position. Employees may be directed to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description.


Duke University is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual's age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or veteran status.

Duke aspires to create a community built on collaboration, innovation, creativity, and belonging. Our collective success depends on the robust exchange of ideas-an exchange that is best when the rich diversity of our perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences flourishes. To achieve this exchange, it is essential that all members of the community feel secure and welcome, that the contributions of all individuals are respected, and that all voices are heard. All members of our community have a responsibility to uphold these values.


Essential Physical Job Functions

Certain jobs at Duke University and Duke University Health System may include essential job functions that require specific physical and/or mental abilities. Additional information and provision for requests for reasonable accommodation will be provided by each hiring department.