Benefits Specialist: Retirement Counselor (Macon,GA)

Job Description

Job Description

ABOUT US
The Teachers Retirement System (TRS) is the largest public retirement system in Georgia. TRS administers the fund from which teachers in the state’s public schools, many employees of the University System of Georgia, and certain other designated employees in educational-related work environments receive retirement benefits. TRS manages the retirement accounts of 262,000 active members, and pays a monthly benefit to 128,000 retired members and survivors. TRS retiree payroll is in excess of $4.7 billion dollars per year. Don’t miss this opportunity to come work with us and help serve Georgia Educators! TRS is currently hiring for the following position: Retirement Counselor

*This position is located in the Macon office and will be eligible for hybrid work schedule after a training period*** Candidates must reside or live within 25 miles of Macon, GA. No relocation costs are paid** *Must be able to travel to Atlanta HQ office as

needed for training.*

JOB SUMMARY
Under general supervision of the operations manager, the incumbent will perform a full range of duties with respect to providing individual counseling sessions to TRS members, projecting estimate of monthly retirement benefits, calculating the cost for members to purchase additional service credit. Incumbents prepare appropriate correspondence and follow up on all requests and correspondence regarding benefit estimates and cost calculations. This will include responding to incoming telephone inquiries, meeting members in person, and replying to correspondence from members regarding various benefits and credits. Incumbents process benefit estimates, cost calculations and answer miscellaneous correspondence and ensure that member files contain the appropriate documentation in order to complete such tasks according state/federal laws, rules, regulations, and policies of the Teachers Retirement System. When such information is missing, the member is notified promptly to provide it. The candidate filling this position will be responsible for counseling and advising members on matters relating to retirement options, service credit and members rights as provided by TRS laws, policies, rules and regulations.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS & EDUCATION
•Bachelor’s degree from a (4) year accredited college/university.
•Minimum of (5) years of retirement related experience, eligibility determination or reviewing andanalyzing requests for determination of retirement benefits or other related benefits;
•Intermediate working knowledge of Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office Suites.
•Ability to work overtime as needed.

PREFERRED ADDITIONAL QUALIFICATIONS
•Strong math aptitude and knowledge of clerical accounting methods, procedures and terminology.
•Knowledge of operating basic computer software, office systems and equipment.
•Excellent organizational skills and case management ability.
•Ability to display empathy under extreme circumstances.
•Ability to analyze data and determine correct information for benefits.
•Ability is required to communicate effectively; and, to establish a working relationship with members to ensure all needs are met.
•Ability is required to take initiative to solve problems; to resolve complex issues involving retirement benefits; and to make independent decisions in accordance with laws, rules and regulations and applying policies to difficult problems.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
•Determine eligibility for retirement benefits and service purchases based on TRS law and policies.
•Provide individual counseling to a minimum of 5 members and their representatives per day; answer questions related to individual accounts; assist with the completion of on-line retirement applications and applicable retirement forms.
•Project estimate of monthly retirement benefits and process related paperwork.
•Provide cost for members to purchase additional service credit.
•Assess and monitor prior account activity for accuracy and make corrections as necessary.
•Correspond with members and employers pertaining to discrepancies in reported contributions and creditable service. Request required documentation to verify validity of account.
•Analyze data to determine correct calculations for retirement benefits and cost calculations.
•Provide prompt, accurate, and friendly customer service to members, beneficiaries, and employers regarding processes, procedures, and regulations of the retirement system.
•Represent TRS at Benefit Fairs, conduct presentations and provide individual counseling to members.
•Manage high volume work flow queues to ensure agency standards are met.
•Perform other duties as assigned.

EARN MORE THAN A SALARY! In addition to a competitive salary, TRS offers a generous benefit package, which includes a pension plan;401(k) with matching contribution; 13 paid holidays annually;

Teachers Retirement System of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity Employer

TRS administers the fund from which teachers in the state's public schools, many employees of the University System of Georgia, and certain other designated employees in educational-related work environments receive retirement benefits. TRS offers a defined benefit plan, guaranteeing a monthly benefit - based on a member's final average salary and service - which is payable for the life of the member, and when applicable, transferable to a member's spouse or beneficiary.

Company Description

TRS administers the fund from which teachers in the state's public schools, many employees of the University System of Georgia, and certain other designated employees in educational-related work environments receive retirement benefits. TRS offers a defined benefit plan, guaranteeing a monthly benefit - based on a member's final average salary and service - which is payable for the life of the member, and when applicable, transferable to a member's spouse or beneficiary.