LEAVE DISABILITY SPECIALIST

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We are seeking an experienced Leave Disability Specialist to join our Human Resources team. This position is responsible for administering employee leave programs, reviewing and processing leave requests, ensuring compliance with applicable laws and policies, and providing exceptional customer service to employees and management throughout the leave process.

The ideal candidate will possess strong knowledge of FMLA and leave administration, experience reviewing medical documentation, and the ability to manage a high volume of cases while maintaining accuracy and confidentiality.

Responsibilities

• undefined
• Administers Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), Paid Family Leave (PFL) personal, educational, maternity, military, and other non-medical and medical leaves of absence in accordance with applicable federal regulations, organizational policies and procedures (P&P), and Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) provisions.
• Reviews, evaluates, and approves leave of absence (LOA) requests in accordance with established policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.
• Reviews medical certifications and supporting documentation, makes leave eligibility and determination assessments, ensures timely responses, and conducts appropriate follow-up.
• Provides guidance to new and active associates regarding FMLA eligibility, leave provisions, available options, organizational policies and procedures, and applicable CBA requirements to ensure an understanding of leave entitlements and responsibilities.

Operational and Administrative Responsibilities

• Under the supervision of the Manager of CLAO, administers, reviews, and approves leave requests; prepares written correspondence; and oversees the accurate administration of payroll timecards related to leaves of absence.
• Consults with and responds to inquiries from associates, management, Occupational Health Services (OHS), Employee and Labor Relations, auditors, government agencies, and external consultants regarding leave administration, documentation, policies, and procedures.

Guidance, and Technical Support

• Analyzes and resolves complex leave administration issues, exercises sound judgment in decision-making, and provides guidance on timecard discrepancies, payroll concerns, and report generation.
• Interprets and explains leave eligibility, requirements, and procedures for various employee groups and leave categories, including Workers’ Compensation, 1199, NYSNA, non-union employees, management disability, FMLA, personal, educational, and military leaves.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
• One to three years of experience in Human Resources, employee benefits administration, policy and procedure administration, FMLA regulations, and statutory disability programs.
• Experience administering employee leaves of absence and FMLA.
• Working knowledge of applicable federal and state leave regulations, organizational policies and procedures, and collective bargaining agreement provisions.
• Experience reviewing medical documentation and making leave determinations.
• Excellent customer service, communication, and organizational skills.

Technical Skills

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
• Knowledge of UKG leave module and timekeeping systems
• Experience in using Workday and ServiceNow ticking system preferred

Competencies

• Organizational Skills: Demonstrates strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple assignments, establish priorities, and meet deadlines.
• Customer Service Focus: Provides responsive, professional, and solutions-oriented service to associates, management, and other internal and external stakeholders.
• Communication Skills: Communicates effectively, both verbally and in writing, with individuals at all levels of the organization.
• Problem-Solving and Analytical Skills: Demonstrates sound judgment, critical thinking, and the ability to analyze complex issues and determine appropriate courses of action.
• Adaptability and Composure: Maintains professionalism and composure when managing competing priorities, sensitive situations, and time-sensitive requests.
• Strategic Awareness: Understands departmental objectives and organizational priorities while effectively carrying out administrative and operational responsibilities.
• Flexibility and Discretion: Exercises flexibility, sound judgment, and discretion when handling sensitive employee matters and confidential information.
• Confidentiality: Demonstrates the highest level of integrity and maintains strict confidentiality when handling employee records, medical documentation, leave determinations, and other sensitive Human Resources information.

Work Environment

• Comprehensive onsite training and onboarding during the first 90 days.
• Hybrid work arrangement available after successful completion of the probationary period, with two remote days per week.
• Collaborative and supportive Leave Administration team focused on delivering an exceptional employee experience.
• Fast-paced environment requiring strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple leave cases simultaneously.
• High level of employee interaction, providing guidance and support throughout the leave and disability process.
• Emphasis on accuracy, confidentiality, compliance, and customer service.
• Independent work environment with opportunities to exercise judgment and problem-solving skills.
• Team-oriented culture that values collaboration, professionalism, accountability, and continuous learning.