Leave Specialist

Description

• Manage and track all employee leave cases from intake through return-to-work using the AbsenceSoft Case Management system.
• Evaluate and determine eligibility for leave and accommodation requests in accordance with federal, state, and company policies, ensuring consistent and compliant decisions.
• Provide training and guidance to managers and employees on leave policies, documentation requirements, and return-to-work expectations.
• Partner closely with HR Business Partners, Benefits, Payroll, and managers to ensure consistent, compliant, and equitable application of leave policies.
• Draft and maintain all leave-related documentation, templates, and communications to ensure clarity and compliance.
• Coordinate with third-party administrators and carriers (e.g., Workers’ Compensation) to ensure timely claim processing and communication.
• Escalate complex cases to the Employee Relations Director, Benefits Director, or Legal as appropriate.
• Recommend and implement enhancements to increase efficiency, reduce risk, and improve the employee experience.
• Serve as the primary contact for employees and managers regarding leave eligibility, timelines, and responsibilities, maintaining confidentiality and empathy throughout.
• Recommend accommodations and return-to-work solutions, collaborating with HR, managers, and Legal to finalize reasonable adjustments and ensure operational continuity.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local leave laws, proactively monitoring changes and updating processes as needed.
• Generate and analyze leave data and trends, preparing regular reports to identify opportunities for process improvement.
• Serve as the subject matter expert on accommodations and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), facilitating the interactive process, coordinating documentation, and partnering with employees, managers, and HR to ensure timely and compliant resolutions.
• Support accommodation requests and the interactive process for return-to-work cases, ensuring alignment with ADA and internal policies.
• Approve or deny leave requests based on documentation, legal requirements, and organizational guidelines, escalating complex cases as appropriate.

Requirements

• Experience using AbsenceSoft or similar absence management systems.
• Strong understanding of FMLA, ADA, state-specific leave laws, and related employment regulations.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities with accuracy, professionalism, and empathy in a fast-paced environment.
• Valid driver’s license
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and analytical skills, with a focus on continuous improvement.
• 2–4 years of experience in leave administration, benefits administration, or HR compliance.
• FMLA/ADA Compliance Certificate (preferred)
• Experience collaborating with third-party administrators and insurance carriers.
• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field preferred; equivalent experience will be considered.
• Familiarity with accommodation and return-to-work processes.
• SHRM/HRCI Certification (preferred)
• Certified Leave Management Specialist (CLMS) (preferred)

Benefits

• Educational Enhancement Program
• Life/ AD&D Insurance
• Paid Parental Leave
• Brand new amenity space that includes a full gym/fitness center and golf simulator
• Medical, Dental, and Vision benefits
• Discount on an apartment at any one of our properties
• Retirement Plan - 401(k) Plan
• Employee referral payment program
• Long and short term disability

Training + Development

Interview process

Visa Sponsorship

Security clearance