Retirement Benefits Analyst I

Teachers' Retirement System of the State of Illinois; Springfield (IL); On-site; USD 54,000 - 84,000; Full time

Job summary

Teachers' Retirement System of the State of Illinois seeks a Benefits Analyst I to support the Benefits Department in processing and calculating retirement and related benefits for Illinois educators, using Pension Code guidance to ensure accurate claims and timely service.

Under supervision, you will handle multiple claim types, respond to inquiries, prepare calculation data, and assist with mailings, documents, and records across Retirements, Member Accounts and Refunds, or Survivor and

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience required.
• Experience with pensions, benefits and/or employee relations preferred.
• Strong analytical and organizational abilities with clear communication skills.
• Ability to utilize computer applications and interact diplomatically with members.

Responsibilities

• Maintain understanding of statutory requirements and procedures for retirement options and benefits.
• Receive requests for income verification letters and other documents; respond accurately and timely.
• Use Excel and computerized procedures to calculate benefit claims and retirements.
• Analyze and prepare calculation information to inform members.
• Organize and process various retirement and benefit applications for claim processing.
• Provide technical and clerical support to the benefits department including correspondence and records.
• Review daily work distribution and prioritize rush requests.
• Calculate one type of claim or multiple optional service adjustments using appropriate applications.
• Contact employers to determine excess salary cost and ensure accurate billing per Pension Code.
• Review QILDRO documents for retirement claim adjustments.
• Analyze, submit, and adjust claims and miscellaneous items as needed.
• Review and interpret documentation related to benefits and Social Security.
• Audit member records to determine eligibility for benefits or optional service.
• Respond to inquiries from members and staff; modify or create letters as needed.
• Review and submit refunds and follow up with relevant parties.
• Analyze returned warrants and coordinate with various entities to safeguard funds.
• Calculate divorce estimates and meet IRS distribution guidelines.
• Research and participate in annual contributions and other projects as needed.
• Retrieve reciprocal service histories and maintain follow-ups with related funds.
• Process OSV forms and respond to members or employers.
• Analyze Social Security eligibility letters and income verifications.
• Review legal documents for proper payment of claims.
• Review workers’ compensation documentation for adjustments.
• Participate in special projects using agile Scrum methodology.
• Engage in training and perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Analyze data

Interpersonal skills

Time management

Quality focus

Organizational skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in math, statistics, accounting, education, business, or related field

Four years of progressive responsibility in related field

Job description

Teachers' Retirement System of the State of Illinois seeks a Benefits Analyst I to support the Benefits Department in processing and calculating retirement and related benefits for Illinois educators, using Pension Code guidance to ensure accurate claims and timely service.

Under supervision, you will handle multiple claim types, respond to inquiries, prepare calculation data, and assist with mailings, documents, and records across Retirements, Member Accounts and Refunds, or Survivor and