Senior Benefits Programs Specialist

State of Vermont
life insurance, paid holidays, tuition reimbursement
United States, Vermont, Newport
Nov 07, 2024
Overview The Senior BPS is expected to be able to perform all aspects of the Benefits Programs Specialist's responsibilities in addition to knowing the organization's needs, program changes, and special project needs. They are expected to review complex cases for resolution or identify the level of involvement needed from other supports such as the Fraud Unit, the policy and program specialists, attorneys, IT, the district management team, and/or the training unit. The Senior BPS is the primary resource for team members to ask questions about eligibility, rules, policies, case research, and business procedures for all programs. Handles escalated calls and callbacks as needed. The Senior BPS is skilled and professional in handling irate customers to resolve problems and/or set them on a path to resolution and satisfaction. It is necessary for the Senior BPS to analyze cases to determine that the appropriate benefit determination was approved. This requires an extensive understanding of budgets and what is included in the computation process. The Senior BPS maintains subject matter expertise and business process mastery for all programs administered by the Economic Services Division. Also, the Senior BPS must have an expert understanding of the system and how it processes entries, so to identify discrepancies and technical issues versus training opportunities. As a front-line coach to the Benefits Programs Specialists (BPS), the Senior BPS understands the fundamentals of Adult Learning Theory. They are clear, calm, and patient in their responses and coaching delivery, recognizing that different people have different learning styles. The Senior BPS is skilled at giving effective constructive feedback, sincere appreciation and regular encouragement to front line staff. The Senior BPS supports and acts as back-up to the Training Team by delivering in-house trainings, providing subject matter expertise to the BPS and reinforcing content that was delivered in trainings. They participate in business process design sessions, ensure the design of up-and down-stream handoffs are smooth and user-friendly for clients and staff. The Senior BPS may assign work to team members as requested by the Supervisor. They also support staff productivity by seeking ideas from the team for improving work distribution and making suggestions to Supervisors. Who May Apply This position, Senior Benefits Programs Specialist (Job Requisition #51405), is open to all State employees and external applicants. If you would like more information about this position, please contactlaurine.pion@vermont.gov. Resumes will not be accepted via e-mail. You must apply online to be considered. Please note that multiple positions in the same work location may be filled from this job posting. AHS BACKGROUND CHECKS: Candidates must pass any level of background investigation applicable to the position. In accordance with AHS Policy 4.02, Hiring Standards, Vermont and/or national criminal record checks, as well as DMV and adult and child abuse registry checks, as appropriate to the position under recruitment, will be conducted on candidates, with the exception of those who are current classified state employees seeking transfer, promotion or demotion into an AHS classified position or are persons exercising re-employment (RIF) rights. Environmental Factors Duties are performed in a standard office setting during standard State office times. Some travel may be necessary, for which private transportation must be available when a State Fleet vehicle is unavailable. Stressful interactions with upset or emotional customers, over the phone and in person, will occur. Staff workload may be heavy at varying times. Occasionally, work outside of typical business hours may be expected. Minimum Qualifications One or more years as a Benefits Programs Specialist, Benefits Programs Specialist Trainee, VHC Support Services Specialist, or Benefits Program Mentor. Total Compensation As a State employee you are offered a great career opportunity, but it's more than a paycheck. The State's total compensation package features an outstanding set of employee benefits that are worth about 30% of your total compensation, including: 80% State paid medical premium and a dental plan at no cost for employees and their families Work/Life balance: 11 paid holidays each year and a generous leave plan State Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FMLI) Two ways to save for your retirement: A State defined benefit pension plan and a deferred compensation 457(b) plan Tuition Reimbursement Flexible spending healthcare and childcare reimbursement accounts Low cost group life insurance Incentive-based Wellness Program Qualified Employer for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program Want the specifics? Explore the Benefits of State Employment on our website. Equal Opportunity Employer The State of Vermont celebrates diversity, and is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect and meaningful inclusion that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The State does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion or belief, national, social or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, HIV Status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, membership in an employee organization, family medical history or genetic information, or family or parental status. The State's employment decisions are merit-based. Retaliatory adverse employment actions by the State are forbidden.