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PRISM is a joint powers authority of California public entities operating various risk sharing pools, which provide insurance and risk management services to our members including counties, cities, schools, special districts and other joint powers authorities.
POSITION SUMMARY The Senior Employee Benefits Specialist plays a critical role in the administration and oversight of employee benefits program for PRISM, providing advanced expertise in benefits program management, policy development, and member services. The Senior Employee Benefits Specialist reports to the Director of Employee Benefits and works closely with consultants, carriers and member agencies, fostering strong relationships while ensuring the seamless operation and management of the benefit programs. This role requires exceptional professionalism, strategic thinking, and a proactive mindset to effectively navigate the distinctive challenges of administering benefits in the public sector. JOB RESPONSIBILITIES Program Administration: • Manage the administration of PRISM Employee Benefits (EB) programs, including health, dental, vision, life, disability, and Employee Assistance Programs (EAP). • Serve as primary point of contact for members, providing exceptional customer service and resolving complex inquiries related to the benefits programs. • Oversee the onboarding process for new EB program members, working collaboratively with the program consultant, carriers and benefits administrators. Financial Oversight: • Generate, reconcile, and analyze financial data related to benefits programs, including invoices, pharmacy rebates, and stabilization funds. • Track program budgets and prepare financial reports for presentation to the governing Committees. • Manage all aspects of the EAP, Life and Disability and Paid Family Leave (PFL) premium billing process and act a liaison between members and Finance. Policy Development and Compliance: • Develop, document and maintain policies and procedures related to Employee Benefits programs. • Ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including COBRA, ERISA, ACA, HIPAA, Brown Act and other regulated mandates. • Oversee the accuracy and distribution of all benefits related materials. Collaboration and Strategic Support: • Assist the Director of Employee Benefits in preparing agenda materials and reports for the governing Committees. • Presentation of agenda items to the program Committees and other stakeholders. • Participate in strategic planning initiatives and provide recommendations for program enhancements. • Accurately record and summarize committee meetings minutes and key discussion points. Communication and Technology: • Create and maintain employee benefits for PRISM’S website, member deliverables, and communication platforms. • Develop and deliver engaging presentations for members and stakeholders in-person and virtually. Benefits Administration: • Oversee the management of online benefits administration systems, reviewing data accuracy and system functionality. • Collaborate with the program consultant and third-party administrators to deliver timely and accurate member services, including renewals, utilization reports, and claims data. Member Support and Engagement: • Provide exceptional customer service as the primary liaison for members regarding benefits programs. • Assist new members with onboarding to PRISMHealth and Dental programs, including training on online benefits administration platforms. • Facilitate and attend open enrollment meetings, health fairs, and member engagement sessions both in-person and virtually. Program Representation and Professional Development: • Represent PRISM at member meetings, conferences, and industry workshops to maintain and enhance program visibility. • Build and maintain strong relationships with members, consultants, and vendors to support program growth and member satisfaction.
Qualifications: Education and Experience: • Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Human Resources, or a related field (or equivalent experience). • Minimum of 5 years of experience in employee benefits administration, preferably within a JPA or public sector environment. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: • Comprehensive understanding of employee benefits programs, risk pooling, and JPA governance. • Strong knowledge of legal compliance requirements (e.g., COBRA, ACA, HIPAA). • Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills with experience interpreting financial data. • Proficiency in using benefits administration systems and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint). • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including experience creating and delivering presentations. • Strong organizational and time-management skills with the ability to handle multiple priorities. Other Requirements: • Valid driver’s license and the ability to travel as needed. • Physical ability to frequently sit, stand, walk, stoop, bend; lift up to 25 pounds occasionally. • Manual dexterity and sufficient use of hands, arms and shoulders to repetitively operate a keyboard and to write. Work Environment: This position operates in a professional office environment with occasional travel required for meetings, conferences, and member engagements. The Senior Employee Benefits Specialist must be able to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by the people assigned to this position. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job responsibilities.
