RETIREMENT COUNSELOR Date: Apr 29, 2024 Req ID: 39438 Location: Little Rock, AR, US, 72201 Category: AR TEACHER RETIREMENT SYSTEM Anticipated Starting Salary: 40339.94 Position InformationClass Code: A078CGrade: GS07FLSA Status: EXEMPTSalary Range: $40,340.00 - $58,493.00SummaryThe Retirement Counselor is responsible for counseling members on retirement benefits and processing retirement applications. This position is governed by state and federal laws and agency/institution policy.FunctionsCounsels retirement system members on available annuity options, explaining procedures for purchasing, receiving retirement credit for previous service or reciprocal service, and prepares correspondence regarding benefit status. Computes annuity benefits, utilizing years of service and compensation factors, and determines amount needed from reserve each month. Verifies eligibility for retirement benefits through review of school, military, insurance, and state records. Establishes and updates retirement benefits files and processes retiree payroll, including writing and balancing vouchers and mailing checks and forms. Prepares monthly retirement system membership reports for Board of Trustees. Receives notice of death of retirees, determines beneficiary, and processes final payment before closing benefits amount. Prepares and presents materials to members in training workshops. Performs other duties as assigned.DimensionsNoneKnowledge, Skills and AbilitiesKnowledge of laws, policies, and procedures governing retirement and social security contributions and benefits. Knowledge of the principles of bookkeeping. Knowledge of the operation and function of standard office equipment, including computers, calculators and data entry devices. Ability to perform and verify the accuracy of mathematical calculations. Ability to interpret and apply the provisions of applicable law, rules or policies. Ability to provide information, counseling, and guidance to retirement system members. Ability to evaluate member retirement needs and options and recommend a course of action.Minimum QualificationsThe formal education equivalent of a bachelor's degree in management, general business, public administration or a related field; plus two years of experience in retirement benefits administration, or related area. Additional requirements determined by the agency for recruiting purposes require review and approval by the Office of Personnel Management. OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.LicensesNonePREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Three years of Call Center experience
Comprehensive knowledge of (Retirement) 401(a) Defined Benefit Plan
Experience in developing and utilizing Excel Spreadsheets
Experience in creating PowerPoint presentations and training small groups
Have internet capability to work remotely from home
Demonstrate soft skills when applicable to member’s situation
De-escalate situations involving dissatisfied members by guiding them in the right direction
Collaborate with other counselors and departments to improve customer service
Train new staff members and inform them on the agency policies
Nearest Major Market:Little Rock