The Benefits Specialist is responsible for the accurate administration of the City’s health and welfare benefits program to ensure that benefits are cost-effective, affordable, and meet the needs of the employees, retirees, and City.  On a monthly basis, this position is responsible for the reconciliation of all Health Care records and billing per the provider to the Harpers/Benefits database.  Employee is required to perform all similar or related duties.  This position reports to the Director of Personnel. This position works closely with the Benefits Manager, Benefits Coordinator, City Auditor, Payroll staff, and school administrators.

Job duties include but are not limited to: Reconciliation and audit of any and all items related to benefits such as: payroll deductions, billing, enrollment rates, enrollment plan selection, subscriber contribution, run-out on claims and charges, and eligibility; reporting of discrepancies, monthly reporting, assist with the preparation of GASB 45, OPEB and /or other mandated reports, deduction downloads to internal benefit database, assist in the oversight of benefit administration, entry of benefit changes, customer service support, Open Enrollment,  invoicing and billing, subscriber documentation verification and maintenance, stay abreast of Federal and State regulations and legislation, and other duties as assigned.

Education and Experience: Bachelors Degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Finance, or another applicable discipline with two to four- (2-4) years related work experience; or any equivalent combination of education, training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the essential functions of the job.

Knowledge:  Understanding of health legislation and benefits; strong knowledge of health administration needs and procedures.

Ability: Ability to handle problems and create a resolution to the problem.; ability to communicate clearly, both orally and in writing; ability to operate a personal computer; ability to maintain confidential information; ability to maintain, manage, and organize records; ability to deal appropriately with City employees, City officials and members of the general public.

Skill: Strong interpersonal skills; excellent communication skills both oral and written; proficient computer skills for all office software programs including word processing and spread sheet applications a must. Ability to convert complex data into meaningful information so actionable plans can be developed is required.

Send resume along with a cover letter to:

City Hall Personnel Office

93 Highland Avenue

Somerville MA 02143

Fax:  617-666-4426

TTY:  1-866-808-4851

Email:  employment_opportunitiessomervillema [dot] gov