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Job Description
RETIREMENT SPECIALIST I
The Tulare County Employees Retirement Association (TCERA) is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Retirement Specialist I. The Retirement Specialist I is the entry level of the series, with advancement opportunities based on performance. A Retirement Specialist provides guidance and support in navigating complex retirement systems, ensuring individuals understand their benefits, rights, and options. There are three defined areas of responsibility: Counseling Relations , the role involves working directly with members to explain retirement plans, eligibility, and financial implications; Disability Determinations , the specialist evaluates medical and employment information to determine eligibility for disability benefits; and Retiree Payroll, responsibilities include processing retirement payments accurately and maintaining records to ensure timely and correct disbursements.
This position requires analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate complex information clearly and compassionately. It is well-suited for individuals who value helping others, problem-solving, and contributing to the efficient delivery of public services. If promoted within the series each level will offer more complex and challenging responsibilities. The position offers the selected individual the opportunity to have an impactful role serving members and retirees throughout important stages of their lives.
To learn more about this opportunity and all requirements for the position please click here .
Minimum Qualifications
Minimum qualifications are used as a guide for establishing the education, training, experience, special skills and/or license which are required and equivalent to the following.
Education: Equivalent to a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college of university in public of business administration, accounting or a closely related field.
Education Equivalency: Additional years of related experience may be substituted for the educational requirement on a year for year basis.
Experience: One (1) year of experience performing payroll processing or retirement related field and proficiency with personal computer operations and software programs.
Knowledge of:- Principles and practices of payroll accounting.
- Bookkeeping practices and procedures.
- Automated pension payroll and active member record keeping systems.
- Theory, capabilities, limitations, and operations of office automation and related equipment and systems.
- The County Employees Retirement Law of 1937 (The 1937 Act).
Skill/Ability to:- Read, understand and interpret laws, regulations, personnel policies, memoranda of understanding and changes to the County Employees Retirement Law of 1937 that affect the pension payroll system.
- Identify a need for developing and implementing new forms or procedures.
- Organize work and set priorities on an ongoing basis.
- Meet deadlines under demanding conditions with changing priorities.
DESIRABLE EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS
Knowledge of: The California Public Employees' Pension reform Act (PEPRA).
Additional Information
Conditions of Employment:- Candidates selected may be required to pass a pre-employment drug and alcohol screening. Additionally, a background investigation may also be conducted, which may include a re-investigation every 10 years for some positions.
- An Employment Eligibility Verification using E-Verify may be required on the first day of employment for some positions.
- Some job classes may also require a physical exam.
College Cost Reduction Access Act : This may be a qualifying position for student loan forgiveness through the College Cost Reduction and Access Act (CCRAA). Only student loan payments made after October 1, 2007 and in a qualified repayment plan are eligible. For more information you are encouraged to speak with your student loan service or visit: https://studentaid.gov/manage-loans/forgiveness-cancellation/public-service
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Bargaining Unit 01
The information listed is a general summary of benefits. These provisions do not constitute an expressed or implied contract and are subject to change.
Benefit Amount: An annual benefit amount is provided and may be applied towards health insurance premiums (medical, dental, vision, and life). This benefit is pro-rated and paid on a pay period basis (24 pay periods).
Health Insurance: A choice of PPO and HMO medical plans which include PPO and HMO dental plans and include dental and vision coverage. Dependent coverage is available. Providers include Anthem Blue Cross, Kaiser Permanente, Delta Dental, and Vision Services Plan (VSP).
Retirement: The retirement plan is a defined benefit plan administered pursuant to the 1937 Act County Employees Retirement Act and integrated with Social Security. In addition to ordinary retirement benefits, the plan provides disability and death benefits. Retirement contributions are made by both the County and the employee. The County has reciprocity with the State of California, contracting PERS agencies, and all County 1937 Act Retirement Systems.
Paid Holiday Leave: 12 set days and 1 personal holiday.
Vacation Accrual:
2 weeks per year (0-3 years of service)
3 weeks per year (3-7 years of service)
4 weeks per year (7-11 years of service)
5 weeks per year (11+ years of service)
Limit of 300 hours.
Sick Leave Accrual: 12 days per year with unlimited accumulation, 60 hours of which may be used toward family sick leave.
Career Incentive Pay
Employees who have completed five (5) or more Years of Service with Tulare County and meet the eligibility criteria described in Administrative Regulation - 52, earn additional pay according to the schedule below.
Years of Service
% Increase
Total
5
3%
3%
10
2%
5%
15
3%
8%
20
2%
10%
Group Term Life Insurance and AD&D: $10,000; Provided by Standard Insurance Company.
Disability Insurance: Employees are covered by State Disability Insurance. The premium is paid by the employee.
Deferred Compensation: A voluntary deferred compensation plan is available.
To view more detailed descriptions of Tulare County's benefits, please view the Benefits section of our Web site at https://tularecounty.ca.gov/hrd/benefits-wellness/health-plans-active-employees/
The Provisions Of This Bulletin Do Not Constitute An Expressed Or Implied Contract And Are Subject To Change.
Closing Date/Time: 5/3/2026 11:59 PM Pacific -
ABOUT THE COMPANY
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County of Tulare - HR&D
Show moreThe mission of Tulare County Human Resources and Development is to attract, retain, and develop a highly skilled workforce. We provide a wide array of services to our department and agencies including training, payroll processing, employee/labor relations, employee records, wellness programs, and benefits administration. Our dedicated staff supports 20 County Departments and over 5,100 employees in more than 800 job classifications.
Tulare County employees enjoy generous benefits, including a choice of excellent health plans, vacation, paid time off and retirement packages. Working for Tulare County is like working with family. You are encouraged, supported and given flexibility to balance your work life and your private life. You'll have an opportunity to begin or enhance a meaningful career where what you do matters.
To view jobs specific to the Health and Human Services Agency click here.
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