Absence Management Specialist

Absence Management Specialist

Penn State Human Resources is looking for a detail-oriented, customer-focused individual to join their Absence Management team. Absence Management Specialists are responsible for case management and administration of leave requests and accommodations related to the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Workers' Compensation, federal, state, and local leave laws, short-term or long-term disability plans, benefit billing, and disability retirements. This individual serves as a subject matter expert on these subjects and will need to provide excellent customer service to University employees who request leaves, disability benefits, and time off, as well as questions / concerns relating to Workers' Compensation.

The responsibilities for this position include, but are not limited to :

• Advise employees, managers, and human resources professionals on leave policies, processes, and laws; serve as point of contact for FMLA and leave types (paid and unpaid) and applicable time off, disability benefits, Workers' Compensation, and benefit billing
• Coordinate leave processes and procedures; verify eligibility based on policies, guidelines, and federal / state laws
• Oversee the FMLA leave administration process from the initial leave notice to return-to-work; gather and complete required documentation, determining leave eligibility, designating leave as FMLA-qualifying, requesting medical certification, and accounting for intermittent and reduced schedule leave use
• Maintain communication with employees on leave to facilitate smooth and timely return-to-work; relay communications between employees and managers during leave
• Navigate difficult conversations, mental health situations, and in-crisis employee situations and provide resources
• Administer the return-to-work process for employees returning from extended leaves of absence, including coordinating ADA accommodations as needed
• Coordinate with management, timekeepers, Human Resources, and Payroll regarding issues relating to pay during leaves of absence and process necessary corrections
• Advise on time off entries for all leave types; monitor time off entries during leaves to ensure accurate payroll
• Oversee vacation donation program for assigned units
• Serve as a liaison with vendors relating to Workers' Compensation and disability benefits

This position offers a flexible work arrangement that combines remote and on-campus work. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.

The ideal candidate will possess strong customer service and communication skills, both oral and written, demonstrate professionalism, accuracy and attention to detail, and be capable of working independently, as well as collaboratively in a team environment. A high level of organization and problem-solving ability is essential, along with the capacity to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines. The successful candidate must exercise a high degree of sensitivity when handling confidential information. Proficiency in Office 365 Suite (Teams, Outlook, Word, Excel, Power Point) is preferred along with the ability to learn and utilize new technologies efficiently. Knowledge and understanding of human resources and payroll policies, Workday, and HR case management ticket system is preferred.

Minimum Education, Work Experience & Required Certifications : Associate Degree 2+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted. Required Certifications : None.

Background Checks / Clearances : Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

Salary & Benefits : The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $46,400.00 - $67,300.00. Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.

EEO is the Law : Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.