$55,000- 60,000

The Leave Specialist, under the general supervision of the Director of Benefits, is a key member of the Benefits Team and is responsible for managing employee leave claims, including FMLA, state Paid Family Leave (PFL), ADA, and other leave programs. This role ensures compliance with applicable laws and internal policies while providing compassionate and efficient support to employees throughout the leave process.

This is a hybrid position requiring 2-3 in-office days per week. Monday through Friday 9am-5pm. 

1. Assist employees with leave of absence claims process.
2. Review and investigate leave claims through phone and written communication with employees, supervisors, healthcare providers, and other stakeholders.
3. Adjudicate claims in accordance with federal, state, and local regulations, as well as company policies and procedures.
4. Utilize medical, vocational, and other resources to assess claims and escalate as needed based on risk level.
5. Maintain accurate and up-to-date electronic claim records.
6. Communicate claim decisions and updates clearly and promptly to all relevant parties.
7. Coordinate return-to-work plans and accommodations in collaboration with healthcare providers, employees, managers, and HR Business Partners.
8. Ensure timely and appropriate notifications based on claimant and employer communication preferences.
9. Adapt to organizational and industry changes, participating in training and development opportunities.
10. Assist in the development and continuous improvement of leave-related policies, procedures, and training materials.
11. Generate reports and metrics related to leave trends, usage, and compliance.
12. Support audits and ensure documentation is complete and compliant.
13. Adhere to all principles related to the Advocates Way.
14. Perform all duties in accordance with agency policies and procedures.

1. High school diploma or equivalent required; Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree preferred.
2. Minimum 1 year of experience handling FMLA and/or PFL claims.
3. Strong understanding of FMLA, PFL, ADA, and related leave regulations.
4. Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
5. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
6. Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and comfortable navigating HRIS or leave platform sites.
7. Ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize effectively, and work independently or collaboratively.
8. High level of professionalism, discretion, and customer service orientation.
9. Strongly prefer that a candidate will have a demonstrated understanding of and competence in serving culturally diverse populations.
10. Must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.

Advocates is committed to cultivating a diverse and welcoming community where everyone feels respected and valued. Advocates fosters a culture of inclusion that celebrates and promotes diversity along multiple dimensions, including race, ethnicity, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, partnered status, age, national origin, socioeconomic status, religion, ability, culture, and experience.