Job Description:The Retirement Specialist, as part of a collaborative team, supports the administration and outreach of SUNY Retirement Programs which includes the Optional Retirement Program, Voluntary Savings Program, NYS Voluntary Defined Contribution Plan and the NYS Defined Benefit Plans. This role serves as a key resource for campuses, participants, and providers while advancing program operations, education, and retirement readiness initiatives.
Duties and Responsibilities: Retirement Program Administration:- Support the administration of SUNY and New York State retirement programs, building expertise in retirement plan operations and participant services.
- Assist campuses, agencies, providers, and consultants with inquiries, coordination, and issue resolution related to retirement programs.
- Research routine participant and program issues and prepare supporting documentation for review and resolution.
- Gain hands-on experience with eligibility, enrollment, elections, contributions, and other retirement plan processes.
Inquiry Management and Coordination:- Support retirement program operations, including annual updates, contribution limits, billing, processing, and participant transactions.
- Maintain accurate records, coordinate stakeholder communications, and track outstanding items to ensure timely follow-up.
- Build knowledge of retirement plan administration while supporting team projects, meetings, and program initiatives.
Data Management and Reporting:- Prepare reimbursement approvals, submit and process payments.
- Build expertise by maintaining retirement program data and records.
- Analyze enrollment, participation, and outreach data to identify trends.
- Prepare reports and summaries to support team initiatives.
- Review data for accuracy and resolve discrepancies.
- Develop experience managing confidential records and electronic files.
Campus and Agency Outreach and Communication:- Support retirement education and outreach initiatives that help campuses and agencies better serve employees.
- Create and coordinate communications, educational materials, and resources related to retirement programs.
- Organize campus visits, virtual meetings, and information sessions to promote participant engagement.
- Monitor participation and feedback to identify opportunities to enhance outreach and education efforts.
Process and Project Support:- Build knowledge and experience supporting benefits projects in research, data analysis and communication.
- Collaborate to support wellness and total rewards programs including health, disability, and leave benefits, as they relate to employee retirement planning and program administration.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:- Knowledge of diverse communication practices and audience-focused messaging.
- Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills, with attention to detail and organization.
- Ability to learn complex program information and apply policies and procedures accurately.
- Ability to analyze information, solve routine problems, and maintain confidential data.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and collaborate effectively with internal and external stakeholders.
- Ability to articulate basic investment concepts.
Requirements:Minimum Qualifications:- Bachelor's degree with a concentration in business or public administration, finance, human resources, communications, or a related field.
- Basic knowledge of investments, asset allocation, and investment strategies.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook), able to create and edit PDFs.
- Demonstrated written and verbal communication, organizational, and detail-oriented skills.
- Demonstrated ability to learn new concepts, apply feedback, and work effectively under guidance.
- Proven ability to conduct research, gather and organize information, and follow established procedures.
- Proficiency in managing multiple assignments, tracking deadlines, and maintaining records.
- Proven ability to deliver high-quality customer service while handling inquiries, providing information, and ensuring timely follow-up.
Preferred Qualifications: - Two or more years of demonstrated relevant work experience.
- Experience fostering productive relationships at various organizational levels.
- Commitment to continuous learning and development.
Additional Information: - Salary is dependent on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, experience, education, training, and certifications. The range for this position is $160,000-$190,000 annually.
- The posted salary range reflects the minimum and maximum target for this position. Individual starting salaries are determined based on a variety of factors, including relevant experience, skills, qualifications, and internal equity. While the full range is provided for transparency, starting salaries generally fall near the entry to midpoint of the range. Salaries at or near the top of the range are rare and reserved for candidates who exceptionally exceed all posted requirements.
- Occasional travel within NYS may be required for campus and agency events, and off-site meetings with retirement consultants and investment providers. (5%-10%)
- Excellent Benefit Package which includes: NYS health insurance, free dental and vision coverage, competitive retirement options, tuition assistance, parental leave at full pay, and generous vacation, sick, and holiday time. 13 days of paid holidays per year; 21 days of vacation, and 21 days of sick time accrued each year. Please see our MC benefits summary for additional information.
- Management/Confidential appointments work under the leadership and discretion of the appointing authority and are not represented by a union.
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. VISA sponsorship is not available for this position.SUNY System Administration Benefits:SUNY System Administration provides an outstanding and comprehensive benefits package to support you and your family through the many life changes you may experience while you work for SUNY. Our nationally recognized benefits include:
- Retirement: The choice between a fully funded pension plan and a self-driven defined contribution plan, along with two supplemental plans to increase your ability to save for retirement.
- Health Insurance: Several health insurance options at an affordable cost that provide full coverage without mandatory deductibles.
- Time Off: Paid time off with separate vacation and sick leave accruals up to 21 days a year for each category.
- Additional paid leave policy options for childbirth, adoption, elder care, and other family care situations.
- Explore our full benefits offerings here: www.suny.edu/benefits
Application Instructions:Interested candidates are invited to apply online. Please submit a cover letter, resume, and four professional references when applying. The review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.
Bargaining Unit:
MC
*Faculty and/or Professional:
Professional
PRODIG+ Indicator:
Executive Position Indicator:
