SENIOR BENEFITS ASSISTANT

Organizational Context

The United Nations Joint Staff Pension Fund (UNJSPF) provides retirement, death, disability, and related benefits to over 90,000 beneficiaries globally. The Pension Administration, comprising 278 staff across four duty stations, ensures beneficiaries receive services according to the Fund's regulations. This role is within the Operations Section in New York, reporting to the Chief of Section.

Job Purpose

The Senior Benefits Assistant acts as a key resource and benefits system specialist within the Operations Section of the UNJSPF. This role is crucial for ensuring that all eligible participants, retirees, and beneficiaries receive timely and accurate services in compliance with the Fund's regulations and policies. The incumbent will handle complex benefit cases, provide expert advice, monitor eligibility, and communicate with beneficiaries and member organizations. This position contributes to the efficient and effective administration of the UNJSPF, supporting the financial security and well-being of UN personnel and their families.

Responsibilities

Provide expert information and advice on complex benefit cases, assisting in their analysis and disposition. Monitor beneficiary eligibility for pension benefits, implementing fraud prevention strategies. Respond to inquiries and provide explanations to beneficiaries and Staff Pension Committees regarding complex interpretations of Fund regulations and rules. Prepare and issue periodic and ad-hoc circulars to member organizations on benefit-related matters. Assist in developing benchmarks for benefit determination and provide technical assistance for data collection and pension record maintenance. Guide Benefits Assistants to ensure accurate client information on participation and entitlements. Monitor work programs, suggest process improvements, and draft/revise procedures. Serve as a subject matter expert on system issues and assist in developing training materials. Act as a focal point for complex exceptions to procedures. Provide on-the-job training, deputize for the Benefit Officer/Section Chief, and assist with data analysis and reporting.

Work Experience

A minimum of ten years of experience in employee benefits administration or a related field is required. This is reduced to eight years for candidates with a first-level university degree or higher. Experience in leading streamlining exercises, developing and conducting training sessions, and data analytics is desirable.

Skills

Professionalism, communication, planning and organizing, data analysis, knowledge of employee benefit schemes and accounting processes, record maintenance, problem-solving, and efficiency.

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