Retirement Payroll Specialist (Administrative)
JOB SUMMARY
This position contributes to the day-to-day business operation of PERA's retirement, disability, and survivor benefit programs. Responsibilities include preparing and balancing the monthly defined benefit payroll, processing benefit recipient account changes, and auditing of 1099-R files at end of year, in accordance with legal and regulatory compliance standards.
IDEAL CANDIDATE
This is a dynamic position that works directly with the PERA defined benefit program's monthly benefit recipient payroll and is not part of the organization's Human Resources Department. Our ideal candidate is a team player that is detail oriented with a strong numerical and analytical aptitude. We are looking for a seasoned professional with a positive attitude and a proven record of providing excellent customer service. This candidate must also be flexible, adaptable, and comfortable with interruptions of their normal day-to-day workflow.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
- Performs a variety of intermediate to advanced defined benefit calculations and benefit payment modifications
- Processes monthly defined benefit payments for eligible PERA benefit recipients in accordance with Federal or State statutes and/or PERA Rules
- Researches and processes benefit recipient account changes including deductions, contact information, life events, and beneficiaries
- Monitors eligibility for benefit payments according to statutory compliance requirements
- Investigates and resolves payroll related issues such as returned benefit checks, returned direct deposits, and uncashed benefit checks
- Participates in yearly verification of 1099-R files
- Communicates benefit program and payment information with members, retirees, and family members via in-office meetings, telephone, written correspondence, and/or email
- Participates in training and educational opportunities for ongoing professional development
- Maintains regular and prompt attendance in the workplace
- Carries out other duties and special projects as assigned
QUALIFICATIONS
- Three (3) or more years of relevant experience, preferably supporting retirement benefits and/or payroll; or an equivalent combination of education and experience
- Highly detail oriented with a strong aptitude for math
- Strong verbal and written communication skills with knowledge of correct English usage, spelling, grammar and punctuation
- Ability to deal with sensitive and/or confidential information and situations in a professional manner
- Ability to provide excellent customer service to both internal and external stakeholders
- Capable of working successfully both independently and within a team-focused environment
- Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite and related business software
- Ability to prioritize, organize and work with minimal supervision
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Standard office environment with regular telephone communication, computer operation, and other office productivity machinery, such as a copy and printer machine.
- Occasional moving and positioning supplies and equipment in excess of 20 pounds
- All employees are expected to present themselves in a professional manner in alignment with the financial services industry
HYBRID WORK OPTION
- Opportunity to work from home up to two days per week. Eligibility dependent upon factors detailed in PERA's Work from Home Policy.
JOB DESCRIPTION DISCLAIMER:
This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of an employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change or new ones may be assigned with or without notice.
Unfortunately, at this time, we cannot consider candidates that require sponsorship (now or in the future), or are located outside of the US.
All Colorado PERA employees are subject to PERA's Ethics Policy and some employees are subject to the Personal Trading Policy. These policies include restrictions on outside business activities and employment and have certain requirements on personal trading. You may request copies of these policies from PERA's talent acquisition team and any questions can be answered by PERA's Investment Administration team.
INTERESTED CANDIDATES
Complete the employment application online at https://www.copera.org/careers. Please have copies of your resume and cover letter available to upload. Please review the following questions. You will be asked for a response to these as part of your application:
- Describe the type of work environment in which you are most productive. What factors must be present in that environment to make you successful?
- Please provide an example of a situation in which you did not agree with the direction that you received for a specific task. Describe how you resolved your disagreement to complete the task. How would you respond if the direction comes from a coworker versus a manager?
- Describe a situation in which you were under a great deal of pressure because of numerous items competing for your time and attention. Explain how you would manage these tasks, including the prioritization, limiting distractions, and making sure that the required deadlines are met?
Upon submission of your application you will be provided a link to a pre-employment skills assessment. You may complete this assessment immediately following your application submission or you may log into your account and complete this at a time which works better for you.
ABOUT COLORADO PERA
Looking for a career where you can make a difference? Colorado PERA offers benefit services to public employees across Colorado, including teachers, state troopers, snowplow drivers, correctional officers and many others who provide valuable services. As Colorado's largest pension plan, we serve and educate over 600,000 members who are former and current public employees.
At PERA you will earn more than a paycheck. PERA is a culture where you can grow your potential and work in an inclusive environment, where diverse perspectives are valued. We hire exceptional employees and recognize that our people are our best asset. Not only do we make sound investments for our members, PERA invests in our employees' growth through training and leadership opportunities.
To promote wellbeing, we offer hybrid or flexible working options for most roles and a total rewards and benefit program including health, dental and vision coverage - eligibility starts the first day of the month following the date of hire for most plans; generous paid time off and volunteer hours; pension and retirement plans, including PERA's defined benefit plan, 457 defined contribution plan, and 401(k) employer match, as applicable; tuition assistance; free, convenient on-site parking or RTD subsidy; free on-site fitness center to stay active; employee assistance program; training, leadership and mentoring programs and more. PERA is a Public Service Loan Forgiveness qualifying employer.
To learn more about life at PERA, watch this video or visit www.copera.org/careers.
Position Title: Retirement Payroll Specialist I
Division: Benefit Services
Reports to: Payroll Manager
Job Status: Full Time / Non - Exempt
Salary: $27.50 - $34.00 per hour, commensurate with experience
Posting Dates: 2/7/2025 - 2/23/2025
