The Leave Specialist puts into practice knowledge of human resources principles, as well as state and federal employment law in the day-to-day execution of Clinicas’ leave of absence and workers’ compensation program administration.  The Leave Specialist reports to the Employee Relations Manager. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The Leave Specialist is responsible for performing the following duties: 

• Administers leaves of absences practicing knowledge of state and federal laws. 
• Communicates with employees regarding their needs for leave and/or modified work schedules. Ensures that employees are aware of their responsibilities and of any documentation and notice required to qualify for and to take leave.
• Handles the FMLA leave administration process beginning from the employee’s initial notice of the need for leave, through their return to work: Gathers and completes all required paperwork; determines leave eligibility; designates leave as FMLA-qualifying when applicable; requests medical certification as needed. 
• Maintains reasonable communication with employees on leave to facilitate smooth and timely return to work; relays communication between employees and their managers during leave within reason.
• Advises managers and employees on the interaction of leave laws with paid time off, workers compensation, and short-term and long-term disability benefits.
• Oversees the return-to-work process for employees returning from extended FMLA, workers compensation, or other leave(s).
• Facilitates other leave requests, which may include accommodation requests under the ADA.
• Maintains complete and accurate records of leave and accommodation requests in accordance with specified legal requirements and documentation of best practices.
• Preserves confidentiality of employee medical documentation and files.
• Maintains knowledge of all applicable leave and accommodation laws including FMLA, ADA, and state and local laws.
• Responds to Disability and Paid Family Leave claims. 
• Administers employee COVID protocol: Conducts contact tracing; generates reports; collaborates with payroll; other related functions. 
• Administers Workers’ Compensation program: Reviews employee claim forms for completion and submits claims to WC carrier in a timely manner; Conducts follow up with injured employees, managers and claims examiners; Injury reporting – monthly and at Safety Committee meeting; Annual OSHA logs;  other related functions. 
• Provides support to the Benefit Specialist, as needed and in their absence. 
• Completes annual ACA reporting in collaboration with Benefit Specialist. 
• Answers questions related to personnel policies and procedures.
• Prepares reports as needed.
• May assist with the coordination of employee relations functions. 
• Performs other duties as assigned including participation in all safety programs which may include assignment to an emergency response team.