Benefits Counselor II / 61015677

Job Responsibilities

Do you have a passion to provide meaningful work in the community? Would you like to be part of an organization whose central mission is helping to protect, stabilize and strengthen the lives of children, families, and vulnerable adults? Then the South Carolina Department of Social Services has the right job opportunity for you.

Job Duties:

• The Benefits Counselor II performs professional work in the employee benefits section of DSS, a large state agency with over 4,000 employees. Uses knowledge of operations, programs and general office procedures to make independent decisions concerning state and agency rules and regulations relating to all functions performed in the processing of information and materials regarding employee benefits and retirement. Counsels employees in person and by telephone regarding insurance and retirement. Processes benefit changes and billing for employees on unpaid leave.

• Processes Notice of Elections forms for state insurance program and other voluntary deductions. Assists employees with changes in their benefits - this includes disability applications and death claim forms. Follows up by reviewing EBS and SCEIS to ensure the accuracy of information.

• Processes benefits for new hires. Ensures information regarding payroll, benefits, and personal data correct in the SCEIS system and EBS.

• Processes terminations for employees leaving the agency. Ensures proper forms are completed and sent to employee. Sends required COBRA notification. Reviews SCEIS system to check for accuracy of any refunds or money due.

• Works SCDSS accumulator, clearing credits/debits to/from PEBA and employees.

• Disseminates benefit information to liaisons and employees. Provides counseling through both written and verbal communications. Assists liaisons and employees with benefit issues as they arise. Interprets and follows policies. Assists with all aspects of annual open enrollment.

• Completes benefits actions and billings for employees in unpaid leave status.

• Assists with new hire orientation.

Minimum and Additional Requirements

A Bachelor's Degree and relevant experience.

Additional Comments

This application for employment with the SC Department of Social Services must be completed in its entirety. A resume may be included; but shall not be substituted in lieu of the completion of this application in part or in whole. "See Resume" is not acceptable information for the completion of any part of the requirements of this application. If such is submitted, this employment application will be considered incomplete and may not be forwarded as eligible for consideration to hiring managers.

Must possess a valid driver's license. The employee must be able to communicate effectively (written and orally) and write legibly. May be required to work after hours and/or some overnight travel and must be able to lift approximately 15-20 lbs.

If you certify, by completion and submission of this application, that you possess educational credentials that qualify you for the available DSS positions, you will be required to provide a certified official transcript, if you are selected for job offer.

DIVISION: Human Resources / Richland County

The South Carolina Department of Social Services offers an exceptional benefits package that includes:

• Health, Dental, Vison, Long Term Disability, and Life Insurance for Employee, Spouse, and Children
• 15 days annual (vacation) leave per year
• 15 days sick leave per year
• 13 paid holidays
• Paid Parental Leave
• State Retirement Plan and Deferred Compensation Programs