Employee Benefits
At Montclair, we believe that when our employees thrive, our entire community rises.
We are committed to providing a supportive, inclusive and empowering work environment. That starts with a comprehensive benefits package designed to care for you and your family at every stage of your life and career.
Montclair offers robust programs tailored to support your personal and professional well-being. Explore our benefits offerings below to find the resources and information you need.
Health and Wellness
What medical and health coverage options are available to Montclair employees?
Montclair provides comprehensive health coverage options for eligible employees and their dependents through the State Health Benefits Program (SHBP). You can review detailed plan options, coverage details and enrollment guides on our Medical Plans page.
How do I enroll in or manage my health benefits online?
You can easily view, select or modify your medical and dental plans using the State’s online portal. Access the portal directly via the Benefits Educator (MyNJ / Benefits) Login.
Does Montclair offer wellness programs and mental health support?
Yes! We prioritize holistic well-being by offering access to wellness initiatives, health screening programs and confidential mental health support through the NJ State Employee Wellness Program. Additionally, employees and their household members can access confidential counseling and work-life services through our Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
Finance, Retirement and Savings
What retirement plans are available for Montclair faculty and staff?
Depending on your employment classification and role, eligible employees participate in state-administered retirement systems or state-approved defined contribution plans. Learn about plan types, contribution rates and eligibility on our Retirement Plans page.
Can I save additional money for retirement on a tax-deferred basis?
Yes! Montclair offers supplemental tax-deferred investment programs—including 403(b) and 457(b) plans—that allow you to save extra money for retirement through convenient payroll deductions. Explore your options on our Tax Savings Plans page.
Where can I find forms and information about managing my state pension?
If you are enrolled in a state pension system (such as PERS or PBRS), you can manage your account, view benefit statements and apply for retirement online through the NJ Division of Pensions and Benefits (MBOS).
Life Insurance and Disability
What life insurance coverage is provided to employees?
Most eligible employees receive group life insurance coverage through their participating retirement system. To review coverage details, policy provisions and conversion options, visit our Life Insurance section.
What disability benefits are available if I am unable to work due to illness or injury?
Montclair offers access to income protection plans in the event of an off-the-job illness, injury or pregnancy-related medical condition. Learn how short-term and long-term protections work by visiting our Disability Benefits page.
Voluntary Benefits
What voluntary and supplemental benefit options can I choose?
Eligible employees can opt into specialized coverage policies designed to safeguard against unexpected expenses. These supplemental offerings include voluntary vision plans, critical illness insurance, accident insurance, and legal services plans. Explore full details, providers and payroll deduction options on our Voluntary Benefits page.
How do I enroll in voluntary benefit programs?
Voluntary benefits can be selected during designated open enrollment periods or within specified timelines following a qualifying life event. Detailed enrollment guides and portal links are available through our Voluntary Benefits resource center.
Coverage Changes and COBRA
How do I update my benefits when I experience a life event?
Qualifying life events—such as marriage, the birth or adoption of a child, divorce or a spouse’s change in employment—allow you to make mid-year changes to your health coverage. Learn about required documentation and submission deadlines on our Qualifying Life Events page.
What happens to my benefits if I leave Montclair or lose eligibility?
Under federal law, the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA) allows eligible employees and covered dependents to temporarily extend their health coverage at group rates following certain qualifying events. Review eligibility rules, election timelines and premium rates on our COBRA Continuation Coverage section.
Work-Life Perks and Leave
What types of leave time am I entitled to as a Montclair employee?
Montclair offers generous paid time off, including vacation, sick time, administrative leave and official university holidays. We also support statutory leaves such as the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and New Jersey Family Leave Insurance (NJFLI). Review rules and guidelines on our Time Off and Leave Policies page.
Can employees or their dependents take courses at Montclair?
Yes! As part of our commitment to accessible growth and lifelong learning, eligible employees and their dependents can take advantage of tuition assistance opportunities. Details regarding eligibility and application steps are available on our Tuition Waiver Program page.
What additional perks and discounts do Montclair employees receive?
Working at Montclair comes with many extra perks! Employees enjoy access to on-campus cultural events, recreation center memberships, library facilities and exclusive corporate discounts. Check out all the extras available to you on our Employee Perks and Discounts page.