Human Resources Specialist (Benefits Coordinator)

The City of Cullman will provide equal employment and advancement opportunities to all individuals. Employment decisions for the City of Cullman will be based on merit, qualifications, and abilities. Equal opportunities are provided regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or other characteristics protected by law. The City of Cullman will provide reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with known disabilities.

Reports to: HR Director

Compensation: Full-Time / Hourly

Description:   
The Human Resources Specialist (Benefits Coordinator) is responsible for the day-to day administration, coordination and support of employee benefits programs.  This position ensures compliance with applicable laws and regulations while delivering responsive, accurate service to employees regarding benefits enrollment, changes and inquiries.  The role serves as a key point of contact for employees, retirees, vendors, and internal departments on all matters related to benefits.

• Administers employee benefits programs including health, dental, vision, life, disability, retirement, CWAC, and voluntary benefits
• Coordinates and manages new hire enrollment, qualifying life event changes, annual open enrollment processes, and discontinues benefits coverage upon employee separation
• Serves as the primary liaison with benefits providers, brokers and third-party administrators to resolve issues and ensure effective service delivery.
• Maintains accurate benefits records and ensures proper documentation and record retention
• Reviews, reconciles and pays insurance and other benefit invoices
• Reviews, reconciles and transfers funds for retirement contributions in both the RSA and other retirement systems
• Processes employee status changes, such as address information across all benefit platforms
• Updates HRIS information regarding changes to health insurance coverage for employees and dependents to ensure accurate ACA reporting.
• Coordinates with payroll to ensure accurate employee deductions and city paid benefit processing
• Issues invoices for the employee portion of premiums for employees who are on unpaid leave
• Assists employees with benefits-related questions and provides clear guidance on plan options, eligibility, and claim issues
• Provides guidance and assistance to employees navigating service and/or disability retirement processes, including eligibility requirements, documentation, and application processes.
• Ensures compliance with federal and state laws, including Affordable Care Act (ACA), Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) COBRA and applicable RSA requirements.
• Prepares required reports, notices and filings related to benefits administration, including ACA reporting, and 1095C distribution
• Assists in the development and communication of benefits policies, procedures and employee education materials
• Participates in audits and ensures data integrity and confidentiality of employee information
• Responds to information requests, such as employment verifications.
• Offers support in other HR roles such as payroll and onboarding when required
• Assists the Director with special projects or investigations as required
• Any other HR function as needed

• Education: Graduation from a standard senior high school or a GED is required. Associate’s degree or higher in HR, Business Administration, or related field is preferred, but not required.
  Two years’ experience in human resources is preferred; Municipal experience strongly desired
  Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
  Certification: 
  This position is eligible for a non-competitive promotion to HR Officer, or Senior HR Officer by obtaining certification through the Alabama Association of Public Personnel Administrators (AAPPA).
  Employees obtaining Payroll Specialist or Risk Management certifications are eligible for promotion to HR Officer.
  Employees obtaining HR Professional or HR Specialist are eligible for promotion to Senior HR Officer

• Knowledge of:
  • Principles and practices of human resources and benefits administration
  • Applicable federal and state employment laws and regulations
  • HRIS systems and benefits administration platforms
  • Basic accounting and payroll processes related to benefits
• Skilled in:
  • Customer service and employee relations
  • Data management, reconciliation and reporting
  • Organization and attention to detail
  • Problem solving and conflict resolution 
  • Effective written and verbal communication
  • Complex mathematical computations and invoice reconciliation processes
• Ability to:
  • Interpret and apply complex policies, laws and regulations
  • Maintain strict confidentiality and handle sensitive information
  • Manage multiple priorities and deadlines with accuracy
  • Work independently while collaborating across departments
  • Communicate technical benefits information in a clear user-friendly manner