Benefits Specialist (Leaves, Workers Comp, Accommodations) - Doyle - 1.0 FTE

Madison Metropolitan School District•Madison, WI

17h•Hybrid

About The Position

The Benefits Specialist - Leaves, Workers' Compensation, and Accommodations works under the general direction of the Benefits Manager and professionally administers and manages cases involving leaves of absence, workers' compensation benefits, and workplace accommodations. The role is the subject matter expert and primary point of contact for employees and managers on these programs. It ensures compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws—including FMLA, ADA, WFEA, and USERRA—and the District’s Employee Handbook, and supports accurate payroll processing for employees on leave or receiving workers' compensation benefits. The specialist provides high-quality program administration and customer service while maintaining integrity, continuous improvement, and an inclusive work environment. The position is in the Human Resources department at the Doyle Administration Building. The listed starting compensation is $32.82 per hour. Work may require travel to locations within the district and off-site meetings. The position may require evening, night, and some weekend work. Hybrid flexibility may be available for a portion of the schedule depending on the needs of the position and work unit; this is discussed during interviews.

Requirements

Two years of post-secondary education or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
At least two years of experience administering leave-of-absence programs, ADA accommodations, and/or workers' compensation claims, with demonstrated knowledge of current relevant federal and state laws.
Proficiency with Google and/or Microsoft Office suite products.
Ability to establish relationships at all levels of the organization.
Ability to follow principles and practices that promote and advance anti-racism, diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Deep understanding of FMLA, ADA, WFEA, HIPAA, and workers' compensation laws.
Strong analytical skills to interpret complex laws and the District Employee Handbook, evaluate options, and apply program requirements fairly and consistently.
Critical-thinking and problem-solving skills.
Exceptional interpersonal and written communication skills, including active listening, proactive outreach, and clear verbal and written communication.
Sensitivity, compassion, and professionalism when guiding employees and supervisors through complex requirements and processes.
Ability to identify and implement process improvements.
Ability to securely handle highly confidential medical information with discretion and tact.
Attention to detail to ensure accurate program and payroll processing.
Ability to maintain composure under stress, set priorities, manage a high-volume caseload, and work independently and collaboratively.
Ability to lift up to 25 pounds occasionally; walking, sitting, stooping, reaching, and manual dexterity may be required.
Ability to work in indoor and outdoor environments throughout the year, including inclement weather, spaces without air conditioning, and areas with uncomfortable or rapidly fluctuating temperatures.
Ability to remain stationary for extended periods may be required.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree.
Prior experience working with a Human Resources Information System (HRIS) or leave-of-absence management software.
Prior experience in a public K–12 school district, municipal government, or unionized environment.

Responsibilities

Process employee leave-of-absence programs in accordance with state and federal laws and District policies.
Facilitate requests for workplace accommodations under the ADA and WFEA.
Coordinate workers' compensation claims with injured employees, their supervisors, and the District's workers' compensation vendor.
Coordinate transitional and light-duty programs and facilitate employees' return-to-work process.
Enter and audit biweekly and monthly payroll for employees on leave or receiving workers' compensation benefits.
Ensure accurate benefit continuation and premium payments for employees on leave.
Advise employees and managers on the interaction of leave laws, paid time off, disability benefits, workers' compensation, and workplace accommodations.
Keep supervisors, payroll processors, and other HR divisions informed of employees' leave status.
Deliver training programs for supervisors and employees.
Maintain complete and accurate confidential records of leave and accommodation requests and workers' compensation claims.
Handle confidential medical documentation with integrity and ensure compliance with privacy regulations and District privacy policies.
Monitor regulatory changes affecting leave, workers' compensation, and accommodations and propose administrative changes to maintain compliance.
Audit workflows and documentation for accuracy and consistency.
Analyze leave and workers' compensation metrics to identify trends and develop resolution strategies.
Perform other duties assigned by executive leadership or their representatives or designees.
Attend district and school functions supporting MMSD's strategic framework, initiatives, and core values.
Complete required District training and build collaborative relationships with business partners.