The temporary, part-time (.5 FTE) Human Resources Specialist I supports the Benefits Team by assisting with COBRA administration, participant record maintenance, compliance-related notifications, coverage tracking, and customer service. The position performs data entry, audits benefits records, monitors eligibility and payment timelines, and provides administrative support to ensure accurate and efficient benefits operations.
Duties/Responsibilities
COBRA Participant Enrollment and Notification
Enter all newly eligible employees, former employees, and dependents into the COBRA third-party administration portal for health insurance eligibility and continuation.
Accurately maintain participant information, including name, Social Security number, date of birth, qualifying event details, and health plan coverage information.
Maintain records of COBRA coverage periods and eligibility timelines based on qualifying events.
Monitor coverage end dates and process coverage terminations when applicable.
Generate and distribute required COBRA notices in accordance with established timelines and compliance requirements.
Election and Payment Tracking
Assist with monitoring COBRA election and premium payment deadlines for leave of absence (LOA) participants whose COBRA coverage is administered internally.
Track participant elections and payments to ensure continuation coverage remains compliant and active.
Notify appropriate Benefits staff of missed deadlines or payment issues requiring follow-up.
COBRA Portal Data Management & Support
Conduct audits of the portal to ensure data accuracy and completeness.
Review and remove terminated employees and dependents with outdated records, including those dating back to 2020, in accordance with established procedures.
Assist with preparing and mailing annual open enrollment materials, plan updates, and COBRA premium rate information to COBRA participants.
Support communication efforts to ensure beneficiaries are informed of changes that may impact their benefits coverage.
Respond to telephone calls and email inquiries from employees, former employees, dependents, vendors, and other stakeholders regarding COBRA and benefits-related matters.
COMPETENCIES:
Problem Solving - Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner; Gathers and analyzes information skillfully; Develops alternative solutions; Works well in group problem solving situations; Uses reason even when dealing with emotional topics.
Customer Service - Manages difficult or emotional customer situations; Responds promptly to customer needs; Solicits customer feedback to improve service; Responds to requests for service and assistance; Meets commitments.
Interpersonal Skills - Focuses on solving conflict, not blaming; Maintains confidentiality; Listens to others without interrupting; Keeps emotions under control; Remains open to others ideas and tries new things.
Written & Oral Communication - Speaks and writes clearly; Listens and gets clarification; Responds well to questions; Varies communication style to meet needs; Demonstrates group presentation skills; Participates in meetings.
QUALIFICATIONS:
High school diploma or general education degree (GED), or two to five years related experience and/or training, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
WHATS IN IT FOR YOU?
Group Health Insurance Plans
Basic & Supplemental Life Insurance
Long Term Disability & Short Term Disability options
403(b) Retirement Savings Plan with Employer Matching Contribution if applicable
Flexible Spending Account Pre-Tax Savings for Health Care, Dependent Care, and Limited Purpose Post Deductible (if contributing to an HSA)