Senior Benefits Specialist- LOA

PURPOSE AND SCOPE:

The Leave of Absence Administrator is responsible for the end-to-end administration of employee leave programs, disability claims, and time-off policies. This role serves as a subject matter expert for federal, state, and company leave requirements while delivering an exceptional employee experience through proactive case management, compliance oversight, and partnership with internal and external stakeholders.

The ideal candidate is highly knowledgeable in leave administration, disability management, state leave programs, and regulatory compliance, with a strong commitment to customer service and operational excellence.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Under limited Manager’s supervision, applies considerable Leave of Absence Administration knowledge to perform a broad range of tasks which include but are not limited to:
  • Manage Leave of Absence (LOA) cases from initiation through return to work, including company leave programs, FMLA, state-mandated leave programs, and Short-Term and Long-Term Disability claims.
  • Serve as a trusted resource for employees and managers by providing guidance on leave eligibility, benefits continuation, documentation requirements, and return-to-work processes.
  • Maintain expertise in applicable federal and state leave regulations and ensure compliance with all legal and company requirements.
  • Partner closely with Payroll, Accommodations, Workers' Compensation/Risk Management, HR Business Partners, and other stakeholders to ensure seamless case administration.
  • Develop and maintain strong working relationships with third-party leave administrators, disability carriers, and state leave agencies.
  • Deliver a high-touch, employee-centered experience that reflects the organization's core values and commitment to employee wellbeing.
• Educate and train managers on leave processes, FMLA requirements, state leave programs, time-off policies, accommodations coordination, and timekeeping practices.
• Conduct audits and reconciliations related to leave administration, return-to-work activity, denied and canceled leaves, extended sick leave, and paid time-off balances.
• Ensure compliance with applicable regulations and internal controls, including ERISA, HIPAA, Department of Labor requirements, IRS regulations, plan documents, Summary Plan Descriptions (SPDs), and SOX controls.
• Identify opportunities for process improvement and support implementation of new programs, systems, and operational enhancements.
• Participate in cross-functional projects and special initiatives as assigned.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING CONDITIONS:

The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Little to no travel is expected for this position.

SUPERVISION:

• None

EDUCATION AND REQUIRED CREDENTIALS:

• Associates degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS:

• 5+ years of experience administering leave of absence programs, disability claims, and employee benefits.
• Strong knowledge of FMLA, ADA, state leave programs, and disability administration.
• Experience working with third-party leave administrators and insurance carriers.
• Excellent communication, consultation, and customer service skills.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple cases and competing priorities.
• Experience interpreting and applying policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.
• Proficiency with HRIS, timekeeping, and case management systems.
• Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS), SHRM, or related certification.
• Experience with UKG Workforce Management/Timekeeping.
• Experience supporting multi-state leave administration in a large organization.