Benefits Specialist I/ADA Coordinator

Utah State University•Logan, UT

About The Position

Utah State University is committed to fostering a supportive and engaging workplace where employees can thrive. The Benefits Specialist I/ADA Coordinator (HR Specialist I) plays a key role in administering the university’s employee benefits programs while leading coordination of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) process. This position provides guidance to employees and departments on ADA accommodations, facilitating the interactive process with professionalism, empathy, and consistency. The role also ensures data integrity, timely and accurate processing of benefit transactions, and high-quality service to employees, retirees, and HR partners. As part of the USU Human Resources team, this position offers the opportunity to collaborate with dedicated colleagues, contribute to continuous improvement of HR services and processes, and support a positive and inclusive employee experience across the university community. The ideal candidate is service-oriented and enjoys helping others navigate complex situations with clarity and care. They are highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple responsibilities while maintaining accuracy, discretion, and confidentiality.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field plus up to 1 year of relevant work experience; OR equivalent combination of education and experience.
Human Resources professionals must demonstrate professionalism, empathy, and composure when working with individuals who may be frustrated or upset, particularly in sensitive or complex situations.
Ability to respond to requests and questions regarding human resources, benefits, payroll, and ADA accommodation matters within established guidelines and applicable laws.
Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, including the ability to explain complex policies and legal requirements in a clear and approachable manner.
Ability to maintain confidentiality of sensitive records and information, including medical and accommodation documentation.
Ability to prepare and maintain accurate, thorough, and compliant documentation related to ADA accommodations and HR processes.
Proficiency in the use of personal computers and standard business software applications, including HRIS systems.
Ability to analyze problems and develop effective, compliant solutions to complex human resources and ADA-related issues, balancing employee needs with business operations.
Ability to work with a high level of attention to detail, particularly in documentation and compliance-related tasks.
Ability to work on projects independently and as part of a team.
Ability to handle frequent interruptions while managing multiple projects and ADA cases simultaneously.
Ability to routinely handle highly confidential and sensitive personnel records with professionalism, discretion, and sound judgment.
Ability to facilitate the ADA interactive process, including gathering information, engaging stakeholders, and documenting outcomes in a timely and compliant manner.
Working knowledge of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), including reasonable accommodation requirements and best practices (or the ability to quickly develop this knowledge).
Ability to exercise sound judgment in evaluating accommodation requests and escalating complex or high-risk situations as appropriate.

Nice To Haves

Experience with managing employer benefits
Experience with ADA
Experience with Banner or HRIS systems
Experience with HIPAA
Strong organizational and case management skills

Responsibilities

Leads and facilitates the ADA interactive process, coordinating with employees, supervisors, and medical providers as necessary.
Evaluates requests and makes accommodation determinations based on input from stakeholders, ensuring compliance with federal and state requirements.
Educates employees on their rights and responsibilities under the ADA, including application procedures, documentation requirements, and timelines.
Advises leadership on ADA-related matters and develops/delivers training for supervisors and managers.
Prepares accommodation resolutions for review and approval, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
Stays current on developing case law in the disability arena and attends conferences/trainings to ensure up to date compliance and knowledge. Ensures leadership training and HR team members are versed in any key changes.
Partners with supervisors to ensure approved accommodations are implemented effectively and consistently.
Maintains complete and confidential employee accommodation case files in accordance with recordkeeping standards.
Oversees the ADA website and manages the accommodation application process.
Develops and distributes regular reports related to accommodations for leadership and compliance purposes.
Maintains in-depth knowledge of all USU benefit programs, including medical, dental, vision, FSA, HSA, COBRA, life insurance, disability, retirement, and voluntary benefits.
Interprets plan documents and applies judgment in implementing processes and procedures related to enrollment, compliance, and employee communications.
Provides guidance and consultative support to employees in navigating benefit programs, ensuring alignment with policies and regulations.
Manages assigned projects independently, exercising discretion and judgment in planning, execution, and completion.