<p>In accordance with the Merit System Rules and Regulations, an eligible list, which will be valid for a one-year period and which will be used to fill vacancies during that period, is being established for this classification.  Applicants on the eligible list will be certified in accordance with the Merit System and appropriate union contracts.  </p> <p>  </p> <p>Candidates may submit online employment applications using the NEOGOV online application system available athttps://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/nccde.</p> <p> </p> <p>EXAMINATION PROCESS: The examination process for this posting may include an evaluation of training and experience, a written examination, a computerized exam, an oral board interview examination, a performance examination or any combination of the above in order to qualify applicants for placement on the eligible list.  The eligible list will be used to fill vacancies that occur within the next year.   The appropriate number of names on the eligible list as prescribed by Merit System Section 26.03.505 will be certified to the hiring department for consideration to fill the vacant position(s).</p> <p>  </p> <p>New employees are generally hired at the starting salary and may be eligible for merit increases each year upon receipt of a satisfactory performance evaluation, up to the maximum salary.</p> <p>New Castle County is an Equal Opportunity Employer</p> <p>GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES: Performs professional human resources work at a managerial and supervisory level in the administration and coordination of New Castle County's benefits programs; does related work as required.</p> <p>DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: An employee in this class manages and coordinates New Castle County's benefit programs and supervises professional, technical and administrative support staff in carrying out benefits activities. Responsibilities include ensuring that all activities are performed in compliance with the New Castle County Code and all applicable ordinances, federal and state laws and regulations, labor contracts and agreements, and relevant policies and procedures. This is a confidential position dealing with highly sensitive benefit related matters. This employee exercises considerable independent judgment under the administrative direction of the Chief Human Resources Officer.</p> <p>EXAMPLES OF WORK: (Illustrative only)</p> <ul> <li>Reviews, analyzes and evaluates systems, policies, procedures, programs and services in consultation with the Chief Human Resources Officer, Chief Financial Officer (or their designees), consultants, Benefits Consultants and Benefits Committee and makes recommendations for changes needed to ensure effectiveness and compliance and to improve services and reduce costs to the County; </li><li>Consults with benefits consultants on annual reports, new plan designs, health insurance rates, open enrollment, presentations to the Benefits Committee, contract reviews and requests for proposals for welfare programs; </li><li>Administers the day-to-day operations of employee benefit programs such as health insurance, life insurance, and flexible spending accounts (FSA). Serves as the primary point of contact for employees regarding benefits inquiries. Provides guidance on benefits usage, addresses concerns, assists with benefits enrollment, and conducts informational sessions during open enrollment periods; </li><li>Leads Benefit Committee meetings, prepares information for the meetings and provides education on benefits issues; </li><li>Identifies complex problems and reviews related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions; </li><li>Facilitates and oversees the County's leave administration, inclusive of the federally mandated FMLA provisions; </li><li>Manages employee leave programs, including Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), Paid Parental Leave (PPL), and other related programs. Maintains accurate leave records and ensures compliance with applicable laws; </li><li>Ensures all benefits programs comply with applicable laws and regulations such as the Affordable Care Act (ACA), COBRA, and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Works closely with legal and regulatory teams to stay updated on changes in benefits laws; </li><li>Manages employee benefits programs and conducts open enrollment for the selection and adjustment of County-offered employee benefits; </li><li>Creates, develops, maintains, and distributes materials and communications for all benefit plans including summary plan descriptions, benefit highlight summaries, and open enrollment information; </li><li>Coordinates the County's annual employee health fair in collaboration with outside vendors offering wellness services; </li><li>Works in conjunction with Workforce Engagement and Training Administrator to achieve learning objectives relative to healthier living; </li><li>Drafts, reviews and revises legislation for County Council on issues relating to benefits; </li><li>Drafts, reviews, and revises legislation for County Council on benefits matters. Monitors and adjusts policies as needed to ensure legal compliance and program effectiveness; </li><li>Direct role which involves evaluating, implementing, and improving benefits systems and processes; </li><li>Reviews benefits contracts; </li><li>Develops and monitors budget for benefits section; </li><li>Develops and monitors the budget for benefits programs. Coordinates health insurance rate adjustments with consultants and presents recommendations to administration; </li><li>Coordinates health insurance rates in conjunction with the benefits consultant and presents recommendations to administration; </li><li>Liaises with third-party benefits providers and vendors. Assists in negotiating contracts and ensuring that vendors meet service level agreements (SLAs); </li><li>Attends hearings and meetings as a management witness or advisor; </li><li>Participates as a member of the management negotiating team and compiles and analyzes information relating to negotiations; </li><li>Coordinates open enrollment activities; </li><li>Assigns, coordinates and supervises the work of professional, technical and support staff and monitors the progress of work and special projects; </li><li>Reviews work of assigned staff for completeness, accuracy and conformance with County policies, procedures, ordinances, labor contracts and federal and state laws and regulations; </li><li>Supervises the processing of refunds for contributions and benefits payable; </li><li>Supervises the preparation of annual reports handbooks, benefits profiles and employee communications; </li><li>Reconciles and pays monthly invoices pertaining to benefits; </li><li>Promotes an ongoing attitude of dedication to excellent public service and ensures that external and internal customers are provided with the highest quality of service; </li><li>Operates a personal computer and other related equipment in the course of the work. </li></ul> <p>REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES: Thorough knowledge of the principles, practices and methods involved in the administration of benefit programs; thorough knowledge of Federal and State laws and regulations relating to benefits; thorough knowledge of insurance industry standard practices used in establishing rates; good knowledge of accounting principles and practices; ability to develop and carry out short- and long-term planning; ability to deal effectively with highly sensitive and confidential issues; ability to plan, coordinate and supervise the work of professional, technical and administrative staff; good knowledge of human resources information systems; ability to prepare complete and accurate accounting and financial reports; ability to interpret benefit laws and regulations; ability to communicate courteously and effectively, both verbally and in writing; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with executive staff, general managers, union officials, trustees, actuaries, consultants,</p> <p>employees, subordinates and the general public.</p> <p>MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: At least five (5) years progressively responsible experience in professional benefits administration, to include at least one (1) year managerial experience, and possession of a Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in business administration, accounting, public administration or closely related field; or an equivalent combination of experience, education or training directly related to the required knowledge, skills and abilities.</p> <p>ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: Must pass a Class III County physical examination and background check.</p> <p>PREFERRED REQUIREMENT: Experience in benefits administration in a public sector environment including experience in transitioning to new providers.Jacquelyn Moore</p> <p>Employment Services Administrator</p> <p>jacquelyn.a.moore@newcastlede.gov</p>