Human Resources Specialist (Benefits)

The Human Resources Specialist provides specialized support to the Human Resources Retirement team. Responsibilities include preparing retirement packets and related correspondence for upcoming retirees, as well as maintaining and updating “M” (Medical) and “B” (Beneficiary) records in the Advantage system. The incumbent assists with data entry in an external retirement database and communicates with retirees or vested employees to obtain missing information or resolve pending benefit actions. This position plays an essential role in ensuring the accuracy, timeliness, and confidentiality of retirement-related processes.

Serves as a specialist to provide guidance and support to departmental managers and County employees: interprets and explains County policies and procedures; counsels managers regarding employment actions; ensures compliance with HR policies and regulations; and coordinates work with other HR staff as needed.

Administer and process benefits and leave for retirement: receive and review benefits and leave forms, requests, and documentation; verify accuracy and completeness of information; enter and update transactions in HR systems; coordinate actions and exceptions with HR managers as required.

Processes employment terminations for retirees: receives and reviews terminations; schedules and conducts exit interviews; prepares exit paperwork; calculates leave payouts; and enters/updates terminations in HR systems.

Performs customer service functions in person, by telephone or by email; provides information and assistance regarding department services, forms or other issues; responds to questions, complaints, or requests for service from employees, departments, and HR staff; and resolves related problems.

Periodically provide training to department representatives; conducts compensation/benefits portion of new hire orientation.

Performs other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's Degree in Human Resources Management, Industrial Organizational Psychology, Organizational Behavior, Public Administration, or related field required; supplemented by three years of progressively responsible experience in benefits, HR system administration, recruitment, test development and administration, human resources or related field; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in a public sector human resources environment, preferably local, state, or federal government, specifically in benefits administration.
• Experience managing a large-scale of HR related projects to ensure timely completion.
• Outstanding interpersonal skills: must display patience and helpfulness at all times as the front-line contact for employee inquiries.

Tasks require the ability to exert light physical effort in sedentary to light work, but which may involve some lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of objects and materials of light weight (5-10 pounds). Tasks may involve extended periods of time at a keyboard or work station.

Sensory Requirements Some tasks require the ability to perceive and discriminate sounds, and visual cues or signals. Some tasks require the ability to communicate orally.

Environmental Factors Essential functions are regularly performed without exposure to adverse environmental conditions.

EEO Statement Cobb County Government is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, or any other legally protected status.