Job Title:
Specialist- Employee Benefits
Company: Plano Independent School District
Location: Plano, TX
Created: 2026-04-19
Job Type: Full Time
Job Description:
Position Type: Employee Benefits/Employee Benefits SpecialistDate Posted: 3/24/2026Location: Administration BldgClosing Date: Until FilledPay Grade: 780 (Minimum $22.20/hour)Work Days: 226Primary Purpose:Provide customer service and support for the Benefits department, including claims for unemployment compensation and workers' compensation.Maintain personal and departmental confidence through professionalism and confidentiality. Assist with special projects, providing clerical support to the Benefits department. QUALIFICATIONSEducation/Certification:High school diploma or equivalent Special Knowledge/Skills: Ability to work independently; exercise judgment; excellent decision-making skillsAbility to interpret and implement insurance, district policies, procedures and legislation pertaining toBenefits and leaveProficiency in Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, e-mail systems, Internet/web navigation, database management, and file maintenanceExcellent keyboarding skillsBasic math skillsExcellent interpersonal and communication skills - both oral and written, with ability to communicate complex programs and concepts to individuals with diverse educational and cultural backgroundsAbility to deal with all people using tact, patience, and courtesy and to work well with all levels of Plano ISD staff as well as outside customersStrong organizational skillsEmphasis on accuracy and attention to detailAbility to handle multiple tasks and deadlines effectively and continuously, with frequent interruptionsAbility to maintain a high level of confidentiality and ethical standards Experience: At least three years experience in either human resources, customer service, benefits, legal, risk management, administrative, or equivalent field (in a public education setting, preferred) MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIESProgram Management Develop expertise in all benefits and leave tasks and concepts and become familiar with basic concepts related to interface with payrollProvide exemplary customer service support to employees, supervisors, family members, applicants, and other customers regarding employee benefits and leave through interpretation of plan documents, policies and procedures.Thoroughly research and follow through on questions from customersWork in partnership and build rapport with the schools and other departmentsMaintain knowledge regarding District policies and Federal and State laws related to unemployment compensation and workers' compensation, including but not limited to the Texas Labor Code and the Texas Workers' Compensation ActReview and respond appropriately to unemployment compensation claims. Prepare, maintain and update unemployment files. Coordinate and participate in unemployment telephone hearings scheduled by the Texas Workforce Commission.Review and respond appropriately to workers' compensation claims. Communicate with employees regarding workers' compensation rules and procedures, instructions for obtaining immediate medical care, and work status updates. Report claims, complete forms required by the State of Texas, and provide requested information to third-party administrator.Maintain and organize files and documents (paper and electronic). Assist with scanning all documents and maintaining Laserfiche files.Maintain knowledge and communicate to employees' information regarding District policies and Federal and State laws related to benefits, including but not limited to the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), Section 125 Cafeteria Plans (flex plans), American with Disabilities Act (ADA), Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA), Affordable Care Act (ACA), and others that may be enacted into lawMaintain accurate and complete records on forms, spreadsheets, and other databasesMaintain and organize employee files and documents (paper and electronic) and assist with scanning all documentsPerform all tasks related to employee benefits for new hires, changes in status, annual open enrollment, and separations from employment, including but not limited to accurate record keeping, timely action, and accurate premium calculationsProcess claims for life insurancePerform all tasks related to employee leave, including but not limited to accurate record keeping, timely action, and up-to-date medical certificationPerform all tasks related to leave bank, including but not limited to accurate processing and record keeping, and meeting deadlines for payroll department processingAssist with intake calls for the Employee Crisis FundAssist with ADA identification and review processMaintain secure destruction of confidential files, as set forth by the records retention policyDevelop proficiency in use of benefits management software used by the districtContribute to team effort by assisting other departmental areas, and cross train to provide back-up assistance for other individuals in the Benefits & Risk Management departmentMaintain confidentiality of employee informationAttend training relative to job duties as determined by supervisorDemonstrate behavior that is professional, ethical, and responsible, and serve as a role model for all District staffFollow all rules, regulations, and policies of Plano ISD and follow directives from supervisorsFollow attendance policy as assigned by supervisorPerform other functions that may be assigned by the Administration and/or supervisorEquipment Used:Computer, copier, fax, printer, scanner, telephone, 10-key calculatorWORKING CONDITIONS Mental Demands:Ability to multitask; work with frequent interruptions; be a self-starter when need arises; ability to communicate effectively (verbal and written); maintain emotional control under stress; maintain a positive attitude while dealing with problems and complaints; reading; ability to perform basic math; ability to meet established deadlinesPhysical Demands/Environmental Factors:Frequent standing, stooping, bending, kneeling, pushing and pulling; prolonged use of computer and repetitive hand motions; prolonged sitting; Occasional lifting up to 50 pounds; occasional travel to various Plano ISD sitesSM031326