In accordance with the Merit System Rules and Regulations, an eligible list, which will be valid for a one-year period and which will be used to fill vacancies during that period, is being established for this classification. Applicants on the eligible list will be certified in accordance with the Merit System and appropriate union contracts.  

Candidates may submit online employment applications using the NEOGOV online application system available at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/nccde.  

EXAMINATION PROCESS: The examination process for this posting may include an evaluation of training and experience, a written examination, a computerized exam, an oral board interview examination, a performance examination or any combination of the above in order to qualify applicants for placement on the eligible list. The eligible list will be used to fill vacancies that occur within the next year. The appropriate number of names on the eligible list as prescribed by Merit System Section 26.03.505 will be certified to the hiring department for consideration to fill the vacant position(s). New employees are generally hired at the starting salary and may be eligible for merit increases each year upon receipt of a satisfactory performance evaluation, up to the maximum salary.

New Castle County is an Equal Opportunity Employer

GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES:  Provides advanced support and direction in the functional area of the New Castle County employee pension programs; does related work as required.

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS:   An employee in this class is responsible for the complex financial administration of multiple retirement plans available to County employees.  This individual has frequent contact with County employees, pensioners, and organizations servicing the program, organizations requiring information from the pension program, and members of the Pension Board of Trustees.  This employee explains and interprets related laws, regulations, procedures, and requirements relating to eligibility for pension benefits.  This employee assists in the preparation of applications and reports, the maintenance of records and files, and exercises a substantial degree of independence in planning and organizing work.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: (Illustrative only)

• Supports the administrative activities of the County's pension plans:   educates and supports the Pension Board, supports the preparation of annual reports, audit and actuarial schedules, budget and actuarial data;

• Monitors changes in plan design through legislation and collective bargaining agreements, complies with U.S. DOL regulations using ERISA standards and other regulatory agencies;

• Maintains records of contributions, disbursements, payroll changes, and operational expenses;

• Verifies pension payroll and coordinates with the payroll department; 

• Performs a reconciliation of the custodial bank account; 

• Performs annual processing, including cost of living adjustments as applicable and the 401(a) match for the county's 2011 plan, including related auditing and reporting;

• Coordinates the preparation of the annual employee benefits statement;

• Calculates and administers changes to pension benefits including the processing of child support and QDROs - qualified domestic relations orders;

• Processes refunds of contributions;

• Reviews pension applications, disability claims, and death benefit calculations; 

• Performs research directed by the Pension Board of Trustees;

• Prepares financial reports detailing the activities of the system for dissemination to the members of pension plans in a format specified by the Board of Trustees;

• Designs communication documents, educational materials, etc., for all covered employees and retirees in order to provide actuarial, contributory, and other data in a timely and accurate manner;

• Designs and plans pre-retirement education and seminars for employees;

• Interprets and applies laws, regulations, policies and procedures as outlined in Federal, State, County governments and other jurisdictions as applicable;

• Promotes an ongoing attitude of dedication to excellent public service and ensures that external and internal customers are provided with the highest quality of service;

• Operates a personal computer and financial/office software programs; and other related office equipment in the course of work.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:  Extensive knowledge of the principles, practices, and methods involved in the administration of a pension program; good knowledge of the laws and regulations governing the various pension plans; good knowledge of the methods used in preparing monetary estimates, processing applications, and providing advice and assistance to employees and pensioners; good knowledge in the development of data for computing benefits and determining eligibility for benefits; ability to communicate courteously and effectively, both verbally and in writing; ability to interview and/or counsel employees on pension matters; good knowledge of the principles and procedures of accounting to include payroll administration, data accumulation, and reporting.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:  At least five (5) years of experience at the professional level in the area of accounting, public administration, business administration, or administrative financial work with at least one (1) year experience in pension administration and possession of a Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in business administration, accounting, public administration, or a closely related field; or an equivalent combination of experience, education or training directly related to the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:  Must pass a Class Ill County physical examination and background check.

Laura McDermott
Office of Human Resources
Laura.McDermott@newcastlede.gov