May 4, 2021

OPEN UNTIL FILLED

Compensation/Benefits Specialist - 1 or more positions

8 hours per day

12-month position – 260 days per year

JOB SUMMARY:

This position is responsible for a broad range of professional and technical functions to include identifying and processing assignment changes, administering Employee Benefits, maintaining files and records, and any other projects or duties as needed within the department. HR Specialists ensure compliance with a wide variety of personnel policies and procedures, laws, board policies, administrative rules, and collective bargaining agreements.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Calculate salary for personnel based on Collective Bargaining Agreements and accurately transmit to Payroll.
• Enter and audit data for accuracy and consistency, which may include work schedule, location, contract pay, supplemental pay, and payroll deductions.
• Collect, enter, and track employee education and experience.
• Address and resolve employee and management inquiries regarding salary placement, records, supplemental payments, timekeeping issues, and district personnel policies.
• Update and maintain confidential personnel files to document personnel actions and assist with other filing as needed.

• Coordinate Annual Open Enrollment Process.

• Administer the input of benefit enrollments and monthly payroll deductions; maintain and track Self-pay, Flexible Spending, Affordable Care Act, and Retirement eligible employees.

• Interpret and apply retirement law, regulations, and district policies while processing all aspects of Washington State retirement.

• Prepare and reconcile payroll deduction remittances for various payroll and benefit vendors.

• Research questions and differences and communicate or perform step(s) necessary to resolve the issue. 
• Communicate with staff, departments, vendors, and agencies providing information, clarification, and solutions regarding benefit questions while maintaining appropriate confidentiality and complying with district policy and procedures, plan documents, bargaining contracts, and state and federal regulations.
• Process Life Insurance claims when appropriate.

• Meet with third-party administrators and representatives as needed to ensure proper administration of plans.
• Research and tracks substitute and temporary employee hours to verify eligibility for benefits.
• Train employees and supervisors during department trainings or in one on one settings as needed.

• Documents and updates processes and procedures for efficient and effective workflow.
• Maintain current knowledge of a variety of rules and regulations, including but not limited to the SEBB program; compliance with federal and state laws, District policy, and procedures; and negotiated contractual agreements with numerous bargaining groups.

• Assist and cross-train with other employees in the department.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Associate’s degree in a related field (Human Resource, Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration) required. Additional professional experience may substitute for the required education.

• Experience in benefits administration, accounting, human resources, or related field is preferred.
• Previous Washington State retirement experience preferred.
• High level of attention to detail, initiative, and the ability to complete work in an accurate and timely manner.
• Proficient with a variety of computer applications including Microsoft Office, and other web-based programs.
• Ability to identify routine problems and propose feasible solutions, make improvements or take corrective action.
• Ability to prioritize work and multi-task effectively.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to work well under pressure and to meet deadlines.
• Ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
• Ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality.
• Must be team-oriented but also able to work independently.
• High level of interpersonal skills to handle sensitive and confidential situations and documentation
• Knowledge of principles and processes for providing excellent customer service and demonstrated ability to work in a positive manner with staff and patrons.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively prioritize workload and work under pressure in an environment with multiple, simultaneous tasks.
• Knowledge of state and federal Payroll/HR laws preferred

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT AND SALARY:

As outlined by and in Policies and Procedures of Mead School District. CBAs and Salary Schedules can be reviewed from the Human Resources page of the Mead School District website at https://www.mead354.org/apps/pages/Human_Resources/.  Mead policies and Procedures can be accessed online at https://www.mead354.org/apps/pages/Board_Policies/

• 12 Month, 8 Hrs/Day, 260 Days

• Hourly Range: $26.11 - $29.40,  Placement Commensurate with Experience

APPLICATION:

All applicants interested in this position must apply for this posting through a link to our online applicant system, TalentEd Recruit, and Hire, found on our website at www.mead354.org.  Upload the required documents to your application.  Below is a list of required materials.  If you have questions regarding this process, you may contact Katie McNaghten at the District Administration Building or email katie.mcnaghten@mead354.org.  The application, along with all required documents must be completed.  Incomplete applications will not be considered.

           Required Documents for a Complete Application

1. A skills assessment may be administered
2. Your Resume
3. Your Letter of Interest, which speaks specifically to your abilities and qualifications for this position
4. Three (3) letters of recommendation (dated and current within the last 3 years)
5. An unofficial copy of your transcripts, if applicable

Verification of identity and United States work authorization must be completed before employment commences. The successful candidate for this position must be fingerprinted. Employment is contingent upon clearance by the Washington State Patrol and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Mead School District #354 is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against otherwise qualified applicants on the basis of sex, race, creed, religion, color, national origin, age, veteran or military status, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts of America and other designated youth groups. Inquiries regarding compliance procedures may be directed to the District’s Title IX/RCW 28A.640 Officer, Section 504 Coordinator, Josh Westermann, josh.westermann@mead354.org and/or Affirmative Action officer, Keri Hutchins, keri.hutchins@mead354.org , (509) 465-6000 or via mail to 2323 E. Farwell Rd., Mead, WA, 99021.  Persons who may need some accommodation in the hiring process should contact the Human Resources Office at (509) 465-6010