Under the supervision of the Benefits Manager, the HR Associate (Benefits) is responsible for administering the County’s benefit programs and well-being initiatives.. This role supports key benefits areas such as health, dental, vision, ancillary insurance, Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA), the Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS), and ETF life insurance. The Associate ensures the accuracy of employee benefit data in both HRIS and third-party administrator (TPA) systems, and provides ongoing support to employees and departments.

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records and documentation for benefit programs including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and ancillary coverages.
• Coordinate the Personal Health Assessment (PHA) program in collaboration with the TPA; track wellness scores and Reasonable Alternative Standards, and communicate retroactive payroll adjustments.
• Administer employee benefit programs such as the Wisconsin Retirement System, ETF life insurance, FSA, and COBRA.
• Serve as a primary point of contact for employees, departments, and affiliates regarding benefit offerings and eligibility.
• Assist in planning and executing the annual Open Enrollment process.
• Prepare and distribute benefit communications and updates via announcements, presentations, and the intranet; conduct benefit orientations for new hires and newly eligible employees in conjuncture with TPA.
• Process benefit transactions, including enrollments, terminations, and dependent updates; ensure timely and accurate updates to HRIS and TPA systems.
• Complete employer verifications for government programs (e.g., BadgerCare) and respond to other benefit verification requests.
• Manage benefit enrollments resulting from court orders, including dependent additions; notify Payroll of changes in deductions or premiums.
• Reconcile benefit invoices and payroll deductions in coordination with the Benefits Manager, ensuring accuracy in billing and credit processing.
• Provide data and reports for census requests, audits, and special projects initiated by departments or external stakeholders.
• Coordinate COBRA notifications with the TPA and ensure compliance with notification timelines and requirements.
• Serve as a liaison to third-party vendors and employees, as assigned by the Benefits Manager, to resolve benefit-related concerns or disputes.
• Ensure compliance with bargaining agreements, County Code, and state and federal regulations regarding benefits.
• Stay current on federal, state, and local regulations (e.g., FMLA, ACA, IRS reporting).
• Continuously evaluate and improve internal processes, recommending efficiencies where applicable.
• Maintain confidentiality of employee information and records in compliance with County Code, state, and federal laws.
• Acts as a liaison for all leave of absence programs in the absence of the Benefits Manager.

Education and Experience:

• Associate degree required, with at least two (2) years of office experience; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience that provides the required knowledge and abilities.

• Working knowledge of ERISA, HIPAA, COBRA, FMLA, Section 125 plans, and related legislation.
• Familiarity with Wisconsin Retirement System, ETF benefits, and benefit administration best practices.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office products (Word, Excel, Outlook).
• Ability to analyze data, resolve issues, and make informed decisions using sound judgment.
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills with keen attention to detail.
• Ability to interpret and apply policies, contracts, legislation, and guidelines.
• Proficiency in handling calculations involving percentages, decimals, and fractions; basic understanding of financial reconciliations and report interpretation.
• Ability to lead, train, and influence while exercising discretion and creativity in problem-solving.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively with employees, vendors, departments, and the public.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and ensure the integrity of sensitive benefit data.
• Ability to work the required hours of the position.