Benefits Coordinator

Columbia University
retirement plan
United States, New York, New York
Mar 01, 2025
Job Type: Officer of Administration Regular/Temporary: Regular Hours Per Week: 35 Salary Range: $72,000- $74,000 The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to departmental budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, and training. The above hiring range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. Position Summary Reporting to the Assistant Director of Benefits, the Benefits Coordinator will provide independent administrative and analytical support to the Benefits Service Center (BSC), Health and Wellness (H&W),Retirement, Operations, Tuition, and Vendor Relations teams. The Benefits Coordinator will also support all functional areas within CUHR Benefits, primarily focusing on the BSC and H&W teams. Responsibilities Serves as a subject matter expert on Columbia University's medical, dental, vision, prescription drug, tax savings, voluntary benefits, and wellness plans. Independently assesses and interprets benefits policies, resolves escalated employee inquiries and makes policy recommendations to leadership based on compliance requirements. Partners with legal, finance, and vendor teams to ensure compliance with university policies and industry best practices. Monitors benefits compliance documentation and audits employee records to ensure accuracy of benefits enrollment and payroll deductions. Supports plan administration, analyzes plan utilization data and provides insights for plan design changes and compliance initiatives. Oversees retirement contribution retros/recoups processing and collaborates with Payroll and retirement plan carriers to ensure compliance and accuracy. Serves as a key liaison with benefits vendors, managing HIPAA compliance, resolving service escalations, and ensuring optimal service delivery. Reviews escalated tuition benefit issues, coordinate resolutions, and support program communications. Independently manages front-line customer service via telephone, email, ServiceNow, and Message Center applications, ensuring high professionalism and accuracy in all interactions. Extracts, synthesizes, and analyzes data from multiple sources, identifying trends and discrepancies to ensure compliance and accuracy. Develops reports using Excel, PeopleSoft, and vendor platforms, providing key insights for leadership. Identifies and recommends process improvements to enhance benefits administration, transactions, and customer service efficiencies. Participates in benefits-related special projects focused on enhancing employee experience and operational efficiency. Performs other related duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience. 2-4 years of progressive experience in benefits administration, HR operations, or related fields. Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and HR systems (PeopleSoft, ServiceNow, or equivalent HRIS platforms). Ability to analyze complex data sets, identify trends, and provide actionable insights. Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, work effectively under pressure, and adapt to changing priorities. Preferred Qualifications Prior experience in a customer-facing benefits or HR role. SHRM-CP, CEBS, PHR, or similar HR/benefits-related certification preferred. Knowledge of federal and state regulations related to benefits administration (e.g., ERISA, HIPAA, FMLA). Experience working in higher education or large, complex organizations. Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.