Pensions Administrator in Swindon

Location: Polaris House, Swindon - Regular office attendance is required, hybrid working available once fully trained.

JSS (Joint Superannuation Services) is responsible for the operational in-house administration of the Research Councils’ Pension Scheme (RCPS). The team deals with everything from enrolment and joining of new members to retirements and then managing pensions in payment, as well as managing the finances of the scheme, member communications and our website. JSS are part of the Reward Team in UK Research & Innovation’s (UKRI) HR function.

We’re a friendly close-knit team of 16, where everyone can feel supported and encouraged to share ideas and work to the best of their ability. We value respect and integrity and offer a flexible and compassionate work environment.

The role is predominantly office based, at the UKRI office in Polaris House, North Star Avenue, Swindon (behind Swindon New College-North Star Campus). There is the opportunity for hybrid working once you are fully competent in the role, but this will not exceed two days per week due to the nature of the job.

Purpose of the role

We are looking for an experienced administrator to join our small pensions team where you will play a key part in the provision of excellent service to our large and varied customer base. The role is in the service delivery side of JSS working in an administrative capacity predominantly providing a service to active and pensioner scheme members. Tasks are varied and require exceptional attention to detail with a keen eye for accuracy and ability to manage multiple deadlines simultaneously. Some prior knowledge of pensions would be useful but is not essential as full training will be provided. The role requires all processes and activities to be completed within the service levels and expected standards specified in JSS’ Pension Scheme Administration Standards.

You will be liaising with scheme members, their relatives, employers’ HR departments, payroll agencies and other third‑party support companies on sometimes sensitive matters. You will typically work alongside other Membership Administrators and Pensioner Administrators as well as being expected to work with Managers and Senior Managers in JSS as required.

Your responsibilities

• Enroll new joiners into the pension scheme.
• Process pension forms and requests from members, pensioners and employers.
• Update and maintain information in the pension database, for example address changes, change of name, change of hours, opt‑outs, death benefit and partner nominations.
• Calculate pension estimates and awards for retirees, early leavers, redundancy, etc. and, where required, deal with payroll and employer contacts regarding queries.
• Request files to the off‑site storage facility.
• Deal with enquiries (telephone, email and written) from a wide range of people including members, pensioners, solicitors and relatives.
• Liaise with employers and third‑party companies for payroll and finance payments.
• Communicate standard pension information, as required, to members.
• Ensure service level agreements are achieved in the processing of queries and administrative aspects and that data is processed in line with the relevant regulations, e.g. GDPR.
• Contribute to identifying and improving processes and improving the service provided by JSS.
• Assist colleagues with other work as appropriate and carry out ad‑hoc activities as required by the JSS management team.

Personal Specification

• Excellent numeracy and attention to detail.
• Excellent prioritising and self‑organisation skills with ability to plan ahead.
• Ability to follow detailed instructions.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Good communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Competent in the use of Microsoft Office products, i.e. Outlook, Excel, Word.
• Experience of working in a customer service environment.

We recognise and value our employees as individuals and aim to provide a favourable pay and rewards package. UKRI are committed to supporting employees' development and promote a culture of continuous learning.

Benefits

• Defined Benefit pension scheme.
• 30 days annual leave in addition to 10.5 public and privilege days (full time equivalent).
• Employee discounts and offers on retail and leisure activities.
• Employee assistance programme, providing confidential help and advice.
• Flexible working options.

For further information on our benefits please see our benefits page.