Benefits Analyst (Compliance and Data) - Hybrid

Department: Human Resources

Classification: HR Analyst 1

Job Category: Classified Staff

Job Type: Full-Time

Work Schedule: Full-time (1.0 FTE, 40 hrs/wk)

Location: Fairfax, VA

Workplace Type: Hybrid Eligible

Pay Band: 04

Salary: Salary commensurate with education and experience

Restricted: False

Criminal Background Check: Yes

Financial Background Check: False

Motor Vehicle Records Check: False

Security Clearance Check: False

Works with Minors check: False

About the Department:

The Benefits Department in Human Resources supports the University mission through the development and implementation of policies, programs, and practices that attract, retain, and reward faculty and staff.

About the Position:

The Benefits Analyst administers employee benefits, leave, and retirement programs, established by the Commonwealth of Virginia, within federal, state, and university guidelines; communicates with employees, investigates and resolves complex benefits-related issues amongst multiple healthcare and retirement plans, and collaborates with Payroll and other university departments and external vendors. This position also conducts Benefit program and reconciliation audits, and facilitates learning sessions.

This position is an Administrative position and the candidate will be expected to work from the Fairfax campus at least two days per week.

Responsibilities:

Benefits Administration

• Administers employee benefits programs, including multiple group health, dental, life, disability, and other programs offered at George Mason University to faculty and staff;
• Interprets various plan designs and documents to relevant parties;
• Advises and informs faculty and staff employees of the details of the university’s benefits programs;
• Navigates death benefits of employees and retirees, works with family to determine survivor benefit eligibility, coordinates with vendors, and supports family members with clarity and compassion;
• Coordinates and/or leads outreach and educational programs (e.g., pre-retirement seminars, open enrollment, EAP);
• Resolves benefits-related issues and responds to queries and requests within 24 hours;
• Maintains and creates records, reports, and documentation following federal, state, and provider regulations; and
• Provides follow-up as needed to employees, university partners, and vendors. 

Employee Extended Absence Management

• Advises employees on Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA), Virginia Sickness & Disability Program (VDSP) eligibility, military leave, and benefits;
• Coordinates all Family Medical Leave (FMLA), VSDP, military leave, and long-term disability actions between employees, departments, and external vendors and relevant parties; and
• Informs employees of anticipated or active changes to their benefits. 

Retirement Management

• Communicates and processes employee retirements for both faculty and staff;
• Coordinates and delivers pre-retirement presentations to eligible employees, providing clear guidance on available options and next steps;
• Analyzes and compiles data from university and state systems to determine employee retirement eligibility and applicable retirement plans;
• Administers the university’s incentive retirement program, ensuring eligibility criteria are met;
• Advises and explains the university’s retirement benefit plan policies, procedures, and legal requirements to eligible employees and beneficiaries, such as life insurance, health insurance, retirement fund payouts, health insurance credit, applying for Medicare, perks, and privileges;
• Conducts one-on-one consultations, both in-person and virtually, to guide employees and beneficiaries through the retirement process, including benefit options and required documentation;
• Assists employees with completing and submitting retirement documents, including the Virginia Retirement System (VRS) online application;
• Collaborates with state, third-party vendors, and internal HR representatives to gather information, resolve benefits-related issues, and ensure accurate plan administ