BENEFITS ASSISTANT

Organizational Context

The United Nations Joint Staff Pension Fund (UNJSPF) in Geneva administers benefits for over 80,000 beneficiaries globally, serving more than 150,000 participants across 25 member organizations. This role is within the Client Services Unit, part of the Pension Administration, which comprises approximately 250 staff across four duty stations. The unit advises clients on participation, separation, and benefit-related issues.

Job Purpose

This role supports the Client Services Unit in the UNJSPF Pension Administration in Geneva. The Benefits Assistant will provide information and assistance to participants, retirees, and beneficiaries regarding complex pension-related issues, including entitlements, validation, restoration, and benefit options. The position involves responding to inquiries, initiating administrative procedures, and ensuring accurate application of UNJSPF Regulations and Rules. The role contributes to the effective and timely delivery of pension services, ensuring clients receive accurate guidance throughout their pension lifecycle, from enrollment to post-retirement or survivor benefits. This includes managing administrative processes, monitoring benefit statuses, and providing clear explanations of pension options and the Pension Adjustment System.

Responsibilities

Provide comprehensive information to participants, retirees, beneficiaries, and member organization staff on complex pension participation, entitlements, and benefits, including validation, restoration, and transfer of pension rights. Respond to pension inquiries via various channels, drafting correspondence on complex entitlement issues. Conduct research to ensure accurate responses aligned with UNJSPF Regulations and the Pension Adjustment System. Initiate administrative procedures for proof of residence, changes in country of residence, and certificates of entitlement. Advise relevant entities on retiree and beneficiary status. Provide information on individual pension cases throughout the entire lifecycle. Monitor and control Certificate of Entitlement verifications, releases, and suspensions. Perform quality control checks for benefit activation and termination. Provide estimates of potential benefit options and explain implications. Review and audit complex cases related to the Pension Adjustment System, Certificate of Entitlement, and Emergency Fund grants. Participate in standardizing procedures and training activities, including training junior staff.

Work Experience

A minimum of seven years of experience in employee benefits administration or a related area is required (five years with a university degree). Two years of experience in client services within the UN Common System is desirable. Experience in a pension fund, ERP systems (like IPAS), data analysis using MS Excel/Office, and data analytics is also desirable.

Skills

Professionalism, Communication, Client Orientation, Knowledge of UNJSPF Regulations and Rules, Data analysis and interpretation, Planning and organization, Record keeping, Initiative, Attention to detail, Stress management, Gender equality commitment.

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