Stanford University is one of the world’s premier academic and research institutions, devoting tremendous intellectual and physical resources toward the betterment of humanity. As a major Silicon Valley employer, Stanford seeks people committed to excellence and to improving our world. In turn, the university is committed to supporting its employees as they develop their careers and enrich their lives.
Stanford University Human Resources (UHR) is seeking a certified absence management specialist within the University Human Resources Benefits Center of Expertise who performs a variety of professional and technical work in the administration, quality, financial calculation review and audit of the disability and leave programs, as well as other leaves including military, public service/government leaves, working closely with the third-party administrator to ensure proper administration, compliance and resolve issues. This position reports to the Disability & Leave Program Manager.
We are open to a hybrid work arrangement (a combination of onsite and work from home). The number of days may occasionally fluctuate subject to business need, but the expectation is that this position will be onsite a minimum of 2 days/week.
JOB PURPOSE:
This position provides support in the research, planning and administration of the absence, leave and disability programs at the university-wide level. This role will serve as a subject matter expert for Stanford’s absence and leave plans, perform professional and technical work as part of the Center of Expertise (COE) for disability and leave programs, working to ensure administration, compliance, processes and solutions, as well as deliver reports, education, and presentations to leaders, human resources community at all levels of the organization.
CORE DUTIES*:
- Analyzes metrics, prepares reporting and monitors activities to ensure compliance with established policies, practices and procedures, labor agreements, faculty arrangements, and government regulations.
- Provide recommendations, analysis and consultation based on in-depth knowledge of FMLA, VDI, STD, LTD, PFL, ADA, Military Leave, public service/government leave, and other federal and state laws, worker’s compensation coordination, reasonable accommodations and return to work programs.
- Provide excellent customer service, analytical and technical support while ensuring legal and policy compliance.
- Oversee the disability leave program and perform or consult on plan administration including system updates, issue resolution, data validation, benefit calculation quality and audit, and vendor management.
- Lead leave and disability related projects, administration, policy and procedure including updates and changes, including reviewing and updated leave related materials, policies and communications.
- Monitor and oversee system records to ensure accurate and timely updates.
- Maintain plan documents, complete filings, respond to inquiries and research implications of changing legislation.
- Provide regular reporting to leaders and HR community leaders, interpret data to identify trends, opportunities for improvement, and support and/or validate recommendations.
- Develop and deliver training and/or presentations for all levels of the organization.
- Partner with external consultants on claim benefits quality and calculation and audit requirements.
- Research and respond to complex claim issues related to leave and disability plans, partner with appropriate resources and colleagues to resolve.
- Provide customer service responses by applying information, tools, processes and subject matter expertise to client inquiries/service requests and provide information or work solutions.
- Monitor incoming work queues; review highest priority work; analyze and report on output to department standards.
- Monitor and complete all phases of escalated and complex case management support at an expert level. Diagnose problems of high complexity, provide answers, or solutions on issues that may impact the employee, manager, the plan administrator, or the HR business partners.
- Lead the design and revision of department communications and work processes. Manage functional projects and actively participate in compliance audits.
- Train and coach disability leave specialists on processes, cases, reporting, analysis, calculations, projects and initiatives.
- Represent UHR to Stanford on disability programs, policies, or initiatives at workshops, presentations, or in one-on-one meetings with employees, faculty, and HR clients. Interact with HR professionals at all levels.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
Education & Experience:
Bachelor’s degree and 5 years’ leave, absence, and disability absence management experience or a combination of education and relevant experience.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
- Proven subject matter advanced knowledge of disability and leave absence management programs and processes.
- Thorough understanding of state and federal regulations related to benefit plans and all applicable laws related to leave and disability administration (FMLA, VDI, STD, LTD, PFL, ADA, Military Leave, public service/government leave, and other federal and state laws, worker’s compensation coordination, reasonable accommodations and return to work programs).
- Experience working with outsourced and interface systems to administer leave administration, preferably Oracle.
- Proficiency in using Microsoft Office tools including Excel, Word and PowerPoint.
- Strong customer service focus and excellent oral/written communication and presentation skills.
- Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines effectively.
- Ability to work independently as well as in a team environment and establish relationships.
- Demonstrated advanced analytical and creative problem-solving skills, strong attention to detail and initiative.
- Project management experience preferred.
- Demonstrated ability to maintain confidentiality and effectively handle highly sensitive and personal information with sound judgement, tact and discretion.
- Able to respond to escalated and complicated requests with authority, knowledge and sound judgment.
Certifications and Licenses:
Certified Absence Management Specialist (Disability Management Employer Coalition, Certified Leave Management Specialist (CLMS), Certified Disability Management Specialist (CDMS), IFEBP Certified Absence Management, Certified Professional in Disability Management (CPDM).
