Minnesota Careers
Retirement Services Specialist - Benefits Specialist - Survivor
Minnesota Careers, Saint Paul, Minnesota, United States, 55130
Job Details
Working Title: Benefits Specialist - Survivor Job Class: Retirement Services Specialist Agency: Public Employees Retire Assoc Job ID:
89121 Location:
St. Paul Telework Eligible : Yes Full/Part Time : Full-Time Regular/Temporary:
Unlimited Who May Apply:
Open to all qualified job seekers Date Posted:
09/24/2025 Closing Date:
10/08/2025 Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit:
Public Employees Retire Assoc / Pub Employ Retire Assoc-MAPE Division/Unit:
Benefits Claim Department Work Shift/Work Hours:
Day Shift Days of Work:
Monday - Friday Travel Required : No Salary Range:
$23.98 - $34.69 / hourly; $50,070 - $72,433 / annually Classified Status:
Classified Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities
:
Yes The work you'll do is more than just a job.
At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.
Job Summary
The Public Employees Retirement Association (PERA) administers and promotes sustainable retirement plans and provides services that our members value.
PERA is the largest public pension plan in the State of Minnesota, serving current and former public employees from 2,100 governmental agencies. We pay monthly benefits to over 140,000 retirees, members who are disabled, and survivors of deceased members. Our 200,000 active members work in our parks, cities, counties, and schools across the state. The services they provide and the work they do make our communities better.
PERA offers parking in an attached ramp at no cost to employees.
About the Opportunity
:
This position exists to provide basic knowledge to Pension Services in the area of survivor benefit applications and benefit payments. This position monitors ongoing eligibility of benefit recipients, and calculates and audits claims for retirement, disability, and survivor benefits in accordance with laws, rules, procedures and regulations. Additionally, this position provides back-up support to the retirement, disability, and survivor application processes.
The position monitors eligibility for survivor payments, serves as a knowledge resource for routine death and survivor questions, delivers PERA benefit information, and responds to stakeholder inquiries of a routine nature, either by phone, in person or in writing.
This position is telework eligible and offers a hybrid work schedule which may include telework up to 50% of the scheduled workdays each month, based on agency and department needs and other dependencies. Scheduled in-office work days are at PERA's office building in St. Paul, Minnesota. Candidates located outside the state of Minnesota and more than 50 miles from PERA's St. Paul office are not eligible to telework and would be required to report to the office full-time. Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications
*Only applicants whose application and resume clearly demonstrate fulfillment of each minimum qualification listed below will be considered for this position. Ensure your resume contains descriptions of your work experience sufficient for comparison against the requirements stated below. Also indicate the beginning and ending month and year for each job held.
This position requires a minimum of one and one half (1.5) years of professional level experience in retirement planning, program administration, or financial services.
*A bachelor's degree or higher in Business, Accounting, Human Resources, or a closely related field substitutes for one (1) year of experience.
Experience must include the following:
Analytical and problem solving skills sufficient to evaluate facts, draw conclusions, and create recommendations. Effective communication skills to provide excellent and comprehensive benefit explanations, customer service, and counseling to a wide variety of stakeholders. Experience using Microsoft Office software. Ability to provide explanationof benefits or administeremployee benefits. Ability to work well both independently and within a team. Performing math computations. Ability to adapt and cope with ambiguity and changing circumstances. Preferred Qualifications
Bachelor's degree or higher in Business Administration, Finance, Communications, Organizational Management, or a closely related field. Experience administering retirement benefits, with the primary focus of delivering customer service, performing calculations, and providing legal explanations or interpreting benefit plans or policies. Experience working at or with Public Employees Retirement Association (PERA), Minnesota State Retirement System (MSRS), or Teachers Retirement Association (TRA). Physical Requirements
Requires occasional lifting and carrying of articles such as file folders, ledgers, and small office equipment. Although a sedentary job is defined as one that involves sitting, a certain amount of movement is often necessary in carrying out job duties.
Additional Requirements
It is the policy of the Retirement Systems of MN that all employees submit to a background investigation prior to employment. The background check may consist of the following components:
SEMA4 Records Check (applies to current and past State employees only) Criminal History Check Employment Reference Check Social Security and Address Verification Education Verification Driver's License Check **The Retirement Systems will not sponsor applicants for work visas. All applicants must be legally authorized to work in the US.
Application Details
How to Apply
Select "Apply for Job" at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us . For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers .
Contact
If you have questions about this position, contact PERA Human Resources at PERAHR@mnpera.org
Connect 700 Program
To receive consideration as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID#, the Working Title and your valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to PERA Human Resources at PERAHR@mnpera.org
Veterans
To be considered for any Veteran's Status , you MUST indicate this on your application.
RECENTLY SEPARATED VETERANS (RSV) : Effective July 1, 2009, legislation provides that the top five RSV applicants who apply and meet the qualifications for a vacancy shall be granted an interview. You must: Meet all Minimum Qualifications identified in this posting. Meet all of the RSV criteria. Submit a copy of your DD-214 form by the closing date to: PERAHR@mnpera.org CERTAIN DISABLED VETERANS : Effective August 1, 2012, legislation provides state agencies with the option to appoint certain disabled veterans on a noncompetitive basis if you:
Meet service requirements and have a verified service-connected disability rating of at least 30%. Provide qualifying documentation verifying the disability. Meet all Minimum Qualifications identified in this posting. You must submit all documentation by the closing date to: PERAHR@mnpera.org
About Public Employees Retire Assoc
The Public Employees Retirement Association (PERA) administers retirement plans for Minnesota public employees, serving over 440,000 individuals from 2,100 agencies. We pay monthly retirement benefits to more than 125,000 retirees, members with disabilities, and survivors. Discover your potential-work for PERA.
Working together to improve the state we love.
What do Minnesota's State employees have in common?
A sense of purpose in their work Connection with their coworkers and communities Opportunities for personal and professional growth Benefits
As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well.
Your benefits may include:
Paid vacation and sick leave 12 paid holidays each year Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans
Fertility care, including IVF Diabetes care Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children
6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years) Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being Support to help you reach your career goals:
Training, classes, and professional development Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov ) Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for work/life support:
A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performance Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care
Programs, resources and benefits eligibility varies
based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS
Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers. State agencies are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state and strongly encourages persons of color and Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve Minnesotans.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and disabilities related to pregnancy or childbirth), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status regarding public assistance, disability, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law.
APPLICANTS WITH DISABILITIES
Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to their employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs with the State of Minnesota, call the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us and let us know the support you need.
Working Title: Benefits Specialist - Survivor Job Class: Retirement Services Specialist Agency: Public Employees Retire Assoc Job ID:
89121 Location:
St. Paul Telework Eligible : Yes Full/Part Time : Full-Time Regular/Temporary:
Unlimited Who May Apply:
Open to all qualified job seekers Date Posted:
09/24/2025 Closing Date:
10/08/2025 Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit:
Public Employees Retire Assoc / Pub Employ Retire Assoc-MAPE Division/Unit:
Benefits Claim Department Work Shift/Work Hours:
Day Shift Days of Work:
Monday - Friday Travel Required : No Salary Range:
$23.98 - $34.69 / hourly; $50,070 - $72,433 / annually Classified Status:
Classified Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities
:
Yes The work you'll do is more than just a job.
At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.
Job Summary
The Public Employees Retirement Association (PERA) administers and promotes sustainable retirement plans and provides services that our members value.
PERA is the largest public pension plan in the State of Minnesota, serving current and former public employees from 2,100 governmental agencies. We pay monthly benefits to over 140,000 retirees, members who are disabled, and survivors of deceased members. Our 200,000 active members work in our parks, cities, counties, and schools across the state. The services they provide and the work they do make our communities better.
PERA offers parking in an attached ramp at no cost to employees.
About the Opportunity
:
This position exists to provide basic knowledge to Pension Services in the area of survivor benefit applications and benefit payments. This position monitors ongoing eligibility of benefit recipients, and calculates and audits claims for retirement, disability, and survivor benefits in accordance with laws, rules, procedures and regulations. Additionally, this position provides back-up support to the retirement, disability, and survivor application processes.
The position monitors eligibility for survivor payments, serves as a knowledge resource for routine death and survivor questions, delivers PERA benefit information, and responds to stakeholder inquiries of a routine nature, either by phone, in person or in writing.
This position is telework eligible and offers a hybrid work schedule which may include telework up to 50% of the scheduled workdays each month, based on agency and department needs and other dependencies. Scheduled in-office work days are at PERA's office building in St. Paul, Minnesota. Candidates located outside the state of Minnesota and more than 50 miles from PERA's St. Paul office are not eligible to telework and would be required to report to the office full-time. Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications
*Only applicants whose application and resume clearly demonstrate fulfillment of each minimum qualification listed below will be considered for this position. Ensure your resume contains descriptions of your work experience sufficient for comparison against the requirements stated below. Also indicate the beginning and ending month and year for each job held.
This position requires a minimum of one and one half (1.5) years of professional level experience in retirement planning, program administration, or financial services.
*A bachelor's degree or higher in Business, Accounting, Human Resources, or a closely related field substitutes for one (1) year of experience.
Experience must include the following:
Analytical and problem solving skills sufficient to evaluate facts, draw conclusions, and create recommendations. Effective communication skills to provide excellent and comprehensive benefit explanations, customer service, and counseling to a wide variety of stakeholders. Experience using Microsoft Office software. Ability to provide explanationof benefits or administeremployee benefits. Ability to work well both independently and within a team. Performing math computations. Ability to adapt and cope with ambiguity and changing circumstances. Preferred Qualifications
Bachelor's degree or higher in Business Administration, Finance, Communications, Organizational Management, or a closely related field. Experience administering retirement benefits, with the primary focus of delivering customer service, performing calculations, and providing legal explanations or interpreting benefit plans or policies. Experience working at or with Public Employees Retirement Association (PERA), Minnesota State Retirement System (MSRS), or Teachers Retirement Association (TRA). Physical Requirements
Requires occasional lifting and carrying of articles such as file folders, ledgers, and small office equipment. Although a sedentary job is defined as one that involves sitting, a certain amount of movement is often necessary in carrying out job duties.
Additional Requirements
It is the policy of the Retirement Systems of MN that all employees submit to a background investigation prior to employment. The background check may consist of the following components:
SEMA4 Records Check (applies to current and past State employees only) Criminal History Check Employment Reference Check Social Security and Address Verification Education Verification Driver's License Check **The Retirement Systems will not sponsor applicants for work visas. All applicants must be legally authorized to work in the US.
Application Details
How to Apply
Select "Apply for Job" at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us . For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers .
Contact
If you have questions about this position, contact PERA Human Resources at PERAHR@mnpera.org
Connect 700 Program
To receive consideration as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID#, the Working Title and your valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to PERA Human Resources at PERAHR@mnpera.org
Veterans
To be considered for any Veteran's Status , you MUST indicate this on your application.
RECENTLY SEPARATED VETERANS (RSV) : Effective July 1, 2009, legislation provides that the top five RSV applicants who apply and meet the qualifications for a vacancy shall be granted an interview. You must: Meet all Minimum Qualifications identified in this posting. Meet all of the RSV criteria. Submit a copy of your DD-214 form by the closing date to: PERAHR@mnpera.org CERTAIN DISABLED VETERANS : Effective August 1, 2012, legislation provides state agencies with the option to appoint certain disabled veterans on a noncompetitive basis if you:
Meet service requirements and have a verified service-connected disability rating of at least 30%. Provide qualifying documentation verifying the disability. Meet all Minimum Qualifications identified in this posting. You must submit all documentation by the closing date to: PERAHR@mnpera.org
About Public Employees Retire Assoc
The Public Employees Retirement Association (PERA) administers retirement plans for Minnesota public employees, serving over 440,000 individuals from 2,100 agencies. We pay monthly retirement benefits to more than 125,000 retirees, members with disabilities, and survivors. Discover your potential-work for PERA.
Working together to improve the state we love.
What do Minnesota's State employees have in common?
A sense of purpose in their work Connection with their coworkers and communities Opportunities for personal and professional growth Benefits
As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well.
Your benefits may include:
Paid vacation and sick leave 12 paid holidays each year Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans
Fertility care, including IVF Diabetes care Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children
6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years) Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being Support to help you reach your career goals:
Training, classes, and professional development Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov ) Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for work/life support:
A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performance Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care
Programs, resources and benefits eligibility varies
based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS
Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers. State agencies are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state and strongly encourages persons of color and Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve Minnesotans.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and disabilities related to pregnancy or childbirth), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status regarding public assistance, disability, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law.
APPLICANTS WITH DISABILITIES
Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to their employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs with the State of Minnesota, call the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us and let us know the support you need.