Temporary Hire - Human Resources Benefits Assistant (Part-Time - 20-28 hrs./week)

JOB TITLE: Human Resources Benefits Assistant

DIVISION: Division of Human Resources

FLSA STATUS: Non Unit Classified/Confidential - Nonexempt

BENEFITS ELIGIBILE: No

HOURS: Part-Time (20 - 28 hours per week)

General Statement of Duties and Responsibilities:

The Human Resources Associate provides administrative and technical support to the Benefits Manager and Office of Human Resources, with primary responsibility for assisting with employee benefits administration, such as retirement, workers' compensation, and general benefits-related employee inquiries. The position manages confidential employee information and supports communications with employees, managers, unions, state agencies, and UMass system partners, requiring a high level of discretion, accuracy, and customer service. This position necessitates access to sensitive information, including grievances, arbitrations, and collective bargaining issues on behalf of the Administration. A strong commitment to confidentiality, discretion, and customer service is vital, designating this role as a confidential employee under M.G. L. Chapter 150E, Section 1.

Supervision Received:

The Human Resources Benefits Specialist reports to the Assistant Director Human Resources.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Experience in Human Resources (within higher education is preferred).
• Previous experience in managing the administration of employee benefits programs.

Preferred Qualifications:

• PHR or SPHR certificate.
• Working knowledge of federal/state labor laws and regulations.

Examples of Duties (Essential Functions):

• Assists with the administration of employee benefits, such as retirement, workers' compensation, and general benefits-related employee inquiries, including intake, documentation, tracking, and communications in accordance with University policy and federal/state regulations.
• Serves as a primary point of contact for benefits-related questions, explaining eligibility, procedures, timelines, and documentation requirements to employees and supervisors.
• Coordinates with Payroll, HR, and department managers to ensure accurate pay, benefits, and staffing related to employee benefits changes, leaves, and return-to-work situations.
• Maintains and safeguards confidential records, including personnel, medical, attendance, and benefits documentation, and prepares correspondence and reports using HRIS and standard office software.
• Assists with resolving benefits-related concerns, disputes, and grievances in alignment with University policies, collective bargaining agreements, and applicable laws.
• Provides general administrative and customer service support to the Benefits Manager and HR office, including data entry, record keeping, and responding to inquiries.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Experience in Human Resources (within higher education is preferred).
• Previous experience in managing the administration of employee benefits programs

Preferred Qualifications:

• PHR or SPHR certificate.
• Working knowledge of federal/state labor laws and regulations.

Environmental Demands:

• Work is generally performed in an office.
• Frequent work and interactions with managers and employees.

Mental Requirements:

• Must be able to communicate in English (speaking, writing, and reading) at a level to effectively perform the essential functions of the position of the Human Resources Associate.
• Frequent work at a rapid pace.
• Capable of managing a high volume of work.
• Must be able to deal with adverse situations.