Position Classification & Compensation

Benefits Study

June 2019 - Results

The University also completed a benefits package value comparison to those of peer higher education institutions and the State of Alaska. Recognizing that, on average, the cost of healthcare is higher in Alaska an external consultant normalized the value cost of the University’s healthcare and retirement plans to those in the rest of the country. The analysis concluded that the University Optional Retirement Plan (ORP), and UA Choice Healthcare Plan have above average value compared to other higher education institutions. The UA Pension Plan was below average compared to other higher education institutions. The amounts for supplemental life and accidental death & dismemberment insurance were inadequate. In response, the maximum amount for both was increased this year.

 

benefits comparison


Where we are:

  • The peer analysis has been completed

What we know:

  • Overall UA benefits are competitive except in:
    • Voluntary employee life insurance (low maximum, no dependent life)
    • Long term disability (low maximum benefit)
    • UA Pension (supplemental retirement)
    • PERS retirement

Next steps:

  • Consider additional voluntary benefits
  • Analyze cost impact to improve market competitiveness

Methodology and Survey Sources

UA worked with Lockton to benchmark the Benefit Plan against the following peers: 

  • University of Alaska Peers
    • Montana University 
    • Southern Illinois
    • University of Maine 
    • Idaho State
    • University of Colorado 
    • University of Hawaii System
    • University of Houston 
    • University of Iowa
    • University of Massachusetts 
    • University of Missouri
    • University of Nebraska 
    • University of Idaho
    • Eastern Washington University  
    • University of Nevada - Las Vegas
    • Montana State University 
    • University of Nevada - Reno
    • University of Oregon 
    • Colorado State
  • State of Alaska
  • 2018 CUPA Survey PPO & HDHP
  • Lockton University and College Benchmarking (17 Universities)

Staff Salary FAQ

 Yes, we compared to the State of Alaska, as well as 18 University Peer Groups, the Lockton University and College benchmarking for CDHP and PPO Plans (utilizing 17 universities), and the 2018 College and Universities Professional Association (CUPA) survey.

While not all employers that opted out of Social Security offer a supplemental plan, those that do offer a more generous plan. The UA Pension Plan salary cap has not kept up with salary increases and increases in the Social Security wage base over time.