11/30/1999 09502

SERS RETIREMENT COUNSELOR

DEFINITION: This is professional field work in planning, developing and conducting retirement counseling for annuitants and active members of the State Employees' Retirement System within a multi-county area. An employee in this class provides counseling and technical assistance directly to active and retired members of the System, as well as, organizations and groups covered by or interested in the provisions of the State Employees' System Code. Work involves one-on-one counseling for members to cover retirement options available and the preparation of retirement estimates. Employees conduct informational counseling programs and serve as a liaison for retirees in areas of health insurance, annuitant payments, tax information and general information regarding the retirement program. Work may also involve providing training and guidance to new employees.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: Calculates estimates of retirement benefits for active members of the State Employees' Retirement System.

Performs one-on-one counseling for retiring members to ensure understanding of the estimates and options provided.

Advises state employees on the provisions, rules, and regulations of the State Employees' Retirement System.

Participates in conferences, seminars and training programs relating to the retirement programs of Pennsylvania.

Participates in the development of policy relative to program goals and objectives.

Develops, coordinates and conducts informal counseling programs as directed.

Conducts investigations concerning applications for disability retirement and employee/employer appeals.

Conducts pre-retirement seminars and informational sessions serving as resource person and representing the State Employees' Retirement System's retirement counseling program.

Travels regularly to and from scheduled counseling sessions, seminars, training programs, and conferences.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of the State Employees' Retirement System Code.

Knowledge of existing legislation and regulations governing the administration of the State Employees' Retirement System Code.

Knowledge of principles and practices relating to retirement counseling.

Knowledge of basic statistical, fiscal and programmatic principles.

Ability to comprehend program goals, objectives and operations, and to relate them to administrative analysis.

Ability to understand and interpret legislation.

Ability to express ideas clearly and concisely both orally and in writing.

Ability to effectively counsel individuals concerning retirement benefits.

Ability to plan, organize and carry out assignments effectively.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, public officials and the general public.

Ability to secure personal transportation or operate a state vehicle.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING REQUIREMENTS: Successful completion of a twelve month formalized training program as a SERS Retirement Counselor Trainee.