Senior Benefits & Retirement Specialist

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in California.

📋 Description

• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients with County Offices of Education, CalSTRS (California State Teachers' Retirement System), and CalPERS (California Public Employees' Retirement System).

• Address escalated STRS and PERS issues, interpreting and applying pertinent laws, regulations, and policies to resolve reporting discrepancies.

• Ensure accurate and thorough documentation for all retirement plans while maintaining compliance with STRS and PERS regulations.

• Audit, process, reconcile, and amend STRS, PERS, and benefit contributions, collaborating with Payroll and Accounting teams to guarantee accuracy.

• Input and update CalPERS contributions in the CalPERS system where applicable.

• Oversee and manage CalSTRS and CROWE audits, ensuring prompt and precise responses.

• Upload F496 files to SEW, rectify errors in Macro text files, and submit necessary reports to CalSTRS and County Offices of Education.

• Keep abreast of changes in compensation limits and inform clients as needed.

• Investigate STRS membership types for all new hires and ensure correct enrollment.

• Manage open enrollment procedures for clients, including updates to rates, employee enrollments, terminations, and changes to plans.

• Enter and update new benefit rates and plan details in the system, ensuring precision prior to open enrollment.

• Assist clients and employees with inquiries related to benefits, including eligibility, enrollments, and coverage options.

• Coordinate with insurance providers to resolve enrollment and billing issues.

• Collaborate closely with Payroll and HR teams to ensure smooth benefits deductions and adherence to benefits regulations.

• Generate reports and maintain records concerning benefits and retirement enrollments.

• Provide support to Payroll Specialists regarding benefits deductions and retirement reporting.

• Aid in new hire processing, employee changes, and payroll-related benefits deductions as necessary.

• Communicate with clients about missing documents, benefit elections, and compliance updates.

• Assist the Payroll Team by generating reports and supporting benefits-related payroll entries.

• Conduct training sessions for internal staff on best practices related to retirement and benefits.

⛳️ Requirements

• A high school diploma is required.

• A bachelor’s degree in business administration, accounting, human resources, or a related field is preferred.

• A minimum of two (2) years of experience in retirement plan administration, benefits administration, or payroll processing.

• Strong knowledge of CalSTRS, CalPERS, and 403(b) retirement plans.

• Experience in employee benefits administration, open enrollment, and compliance.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel (intermediate/advanced level required).

• Ability to analyze data, resolve non-routine problems, and ensure compliance with state and federal regulations.

• Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.

• Familiarity with payroll processing systems such as Paycor, ADP, UKG, Paylocity, Frontline, or Paychex is a plus.

• Experience with Sage Intacct / Abila Non-Profit Accounting is an advantage.

• Knowledge of payroll compliance in non-profit and charter school settings is beneficial.

🏝️ Benefits

• As a remote-first organization, we promote flexibility and collaboration across teams. To support your success, we provide a company-issued laptop along with essential accessories, including a mouse, keyboard, and monitor, to help you establish a productive remote workspace.

• Opportunities to connect: Participate in regular virtual and in-person team-building activities.

• Incredible colleagues: Collaborate with a dedicated team making a significant impact.

• Competitive compensation & benefits: Access medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, plus a 401(k) with company match—and much more!

• Generous paid time off: Enjoy 11 paid company holidays and a winter break from Christmas Day through New Year's Day.

• Employee Referral Bonus Program: Earn a bonus for successful referrals.