Job Summary

Under the supervision of the assigned manager, the Retirement Specialist performs a variety of complex clerical, data processing and/or technical accounting work involved in developing, maintaining and auditing data sets specific to their department, and serving as a technical resource to HCOE, school district and charter school staff.

Distinguishing Characteristics

This is a mid-level position which requires independent decision-making.  A Specialist is responsible for the collection, reconciliation and reporting of specialized groups of data.  A Specialist works with complex data and performs technical and clerical duties specific to their assigned department.  A Specialist serves as a technical resource to HCOE, local school districts and charter schools, preparing and provides training and support in both one-on-one and group settings clearly communicating complex processes.

Essential Duties:

• Audits STRS and PERS monthly retirement reports submitted by Humboldt County education agencies for the purpose of reconciling, consolidating and submitting combined reports to STRS and PERS.
• Compiles, reviews, and prepares financial analyses (e.g., year-end reports, variance reports, contribution rates, etc.) for the purpose of providing financial summaries for staff and educational agency use, and/or ensuring compliance with established regulatory guidelines.
• Creates, interprets and coordinates updates to operating, instruction and procedures manuals for the purpose of providing direction in addressing needs and resolving current issues.
• Develops and conducts individual and group workshops and/or training for Humboldt educational agencies for the purpose of conveying knowledge of retirement system regulations, proper recordkeeping procedures and reporting requirements.
• Ensures the timeliness and accuracy of payments for retirement reporting for the purpose of assuring compliance with state guidelines and retention of information required by law.
• Operates internal retirement information systems for the purpose of providing required guidance, support and compliance with established regulations.
• Participates in unit meetings, in-service training, workshops, etc. for the purpose of conveying and/or gathering information required to perform job functions.
• Prepares and maintains a wide variety of files and records (e.g., variance and activity reports, payroll records, retirement records, accounting records, state mandated
• reports, procedures, etc.) for the purpose of documenting activities, providing reference, conveying information, and complying with established financial, legal and/or administrative requirements.
• Receives PERS and STRS agencies procedural changes for the purpose of implementing these changes in compliance with established regulatory guidelines.
• Reconciles, balances, tracks and maintains records for the purpose of verifying accuracy of information, maintaining accurate balances according to prescribed accounting procedures.
• Resolves discrepancies and exceptions related to retirement reporting issues for the purpose of investigating and working independently with local educational agencies ensuring legality, proper authorization and compliance with relevant legal, procedural and reporting requirements.
• Responds to inquiries of staff and administration for the purpose of providing routine and specialized information regarding retirement financial procedures.
• Serves as a technical resource to active employees and retirees for the purpose of providing information regarding retirement system matters.
• Verifies and processes cash journal transfers for the purpose of maintaining estimated and final retirement contribution amounts for Humboldt County educational agencies.
• Performs related duties as required.

Employment Standards:

Knowledge of

• Departmental principles and practices
• Concepts and techniques related to the research, gathering, compiling, auditing and processing of specific sets of data.
• Principles and practices of training and providing work direction as part of a team.
• Applicable sections of California Education Code and other federal and state laws, rules, and regulations.
• Office practices, methods and procedures
• Computer database systems and computer-based systems.

Ability to

• Prepare, process and verify data and report information rapidly and accurately at an acceptable standard of efficiency and to meet assigned timelines
• Analyze information and statistics and prepare reports, specifications, and correspondence
• Make recommendations regarding improved policies and procedures
• Audit the record keeping work prepared by other school personnel.
• Follow written and oral instructions
• Work independently with little direction
• Prepare, organize and maintain records and files
• Present complex technical information to individuals, small and large groups effectively.
• Professionally represent the office to other schools, businesses and agencies as necessary
• Adjust to changing work demands, including but not limited to changes in procedures, technologies and fluctuations in workflow
• Communicate effectively orally and in writing and one-on-one in scheduled online meetings as needed
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the performance of duties

Minimum Qualifications

Education and Experience

• Associate’s degree in Business Administration, Accounting, or a related field and two (2) years of equivalent related experience, OR
• Three (3) years related experience with increasing responsibility

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in a school district or county office of education.

Working Conditions

With or without accommodation, this position includes prolonged periods of standing or sitting, frequent walking, and occasional bending, stooping, and reaching. The employee must be able to lift, push, and pull objects up to 30 pounds. Visual and auditory abilities are required to perform essential job functions. Must be able to operate computer and other office equipment.

Other Requirements

• Must be fingerprinted and a satisfactory Department of Justice records check must be received by HCOE prior to employment.
• TB testing and/or risk assessment will be required upon employment.
• Other requirements as appropriate for the job responsibilities.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified.

Salary: Range 15 on the adopted salary scale for classified employees.