Human Resources Specialist (Benefits and Leaves)

Sno-Isle Libraries•Marysville, WA

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Join an organization dedicated to learning, community engagement, and equitable access to information. Sno-Isle Libraries is seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Human Resources Specialist focusing on Benefits and Leaves, to perform a variety of complex clerical and administrative services along with having responsibility for performing professional and technical human resource work. This position involves the use and preservation of confidential and sensitive information and dealing with matters having significant impact on the organization’s compliance with critical federal and state laws and regulations. Must have the ability to provide accurate guidance on Leaves of Absence claims, benefits coverage questions- including Workers’ Compensation, and Job Accommodation processes to ensure employees understand how to navigate their benefits effectively. The ideal candidate is able to support the department’s administration needs for benefits and leaves, while thriving in a service-oriented environment that supports employees who make a difference in their communities every day. Working at Sno-Isle Libraries means being part of a mission-driven organization committed to equity, inclusion, and lifelong learning across Snohomish and Island County. This position contributes to the Library District’s effective operation, providing library services, spaces, and resources that are representative of diverse cultures and perspectives, intentionally inclusive, and accessible to everyone. We Value Lived Experience Sno-Isle Libraries is committed to embedding equity into our organization. As we engage in equity work, it's important to have a good foundation to frame the work and then provide training opportunities to build skills and knowledge. We value and embrace the unique experiences our staff members bring to the organization and recognize how their experiences improve the service we provide.

Requirements

University-level education in such fields as human resource management, public administration, or a related field, together with at least three years of Human Resources experience.
Strong thorough knowledge of human resource management programs, policies, systems and procedures; federal, state and local employment laws and regulations; and principles of training.
Knowledge of COBRA, HIPAA, ACA requirements, employment laws and compensation administration.
Ability to maintain awareness of changes in the law regarding all Human Resource, benefit, and leave programs, and ensure compliance with legal and regulatory guidelines.
Thorough knowledge of principles of supervision of the work of others.
Demonstrated ability to preserve and protect the strictest confidence of highly confidential and sensitive information.
Ability to interpret and apply the Library's policies, methods, and systems.
Demonstrated ability to exercise initiative, independent judgement, and be a self-starter who works with integrity.
Demonstrated ability to listen, understand, and interpret information and concerns received from employees and managers from diverse backgrounds.
Excellent attention to detail while multitasking.
Ability to uphold the principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace and the community.
Ability to work, plan, organize, and prioritize independently with minimum supervision and direction.
Ability to communicate effectively with diverse audiences.
Ability to work cooperatively and maintain effective interpersonal skills with the public and co-workers.
Ability to solve problems and respond in a calm, reasonable manner in all situations.
Ability to comprehend and interpret instructions and correspondence; ask clarifying questions to ensure understanding.
Ability to work under stress with distractions to meet deadlines and needs with minimal supervision.
Ability to maintain records or files and respond to visitors and telephone calls.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees and provide services to staff while maintaining confidentiality, tact, and diplomacy.
Ability to use personal computers, word processing, database, and spreadsheet software as well as complex automated systems such as human resources information system.
Must be able to drive and hold a valid Washington State driver's license or to make independent arrangements for such transportation.

Nice To Haves

Professional certification such as Professional in Human Resources (SHRM or PHR) or Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS) is desirable.

Responsibilities

Administer the Library's employee benefit programs and policies; assure compliance with federal and state laws governing benefits; work with broker and vendors to identify benefit options; monitor vendor services for compliance with performance guaranties.
Communicate benefit programs and information to employees; analyze and implement training as needed; work with HRIS Administrator to plan and execute open enrollment activities.
Interpret and administer all leave programs and policies in accordance with applicable federal and state laws (LOA, FMLA, ADA, USERRA, Pregnancy Discrimination Act), coordinate Workers' Compensation and return-to-work programs, address applicant and staff requests for ADA accommodation; provide timely and accurate guidance to supervisors and employees regarding leaves, accommodations, and medical information.
Coordinate all medical information to ensure HIPPA and employee privacy guidance are monitored and executed.
Coordinate with supervisors to determine reasonable accommodation.
Manage all administrative aspects of leave and Workers' Compensation claims to ensure accurate pay for employees; maintain communication with employees on leave and their supervisors to ensure proper return to work procedures are implemented; create and facilitate appropriate training as needed for employees and supervisors.
Conduct weekly onboarding for all new employees to ensure a positive first impression of the organization's vision, mission, values, culture, policies, and expectations to build a strong foundation and increase employee engagement.
Track completion of performance appraisals, maintain records, and regularly report to supervisors due dates and status of appraisals.
Coordinate and administer safety program, including serving on district-wide safety committee, to assure compliance with state and federal laws and regulations.
Prepare and maintain a variety of records, files, reports, eligibility lists, and certifications relative to Human Resource functions; organize and oversee comprehensive records related to human resources administration; comply with department records management guidelines and archival system.
Investigate, interpret, and administer legal compliance issues; provide interpretation and guidance regarding Human Resource policies and procedures as needed.
Research, draft, and update human resource policies, procedures, programs, and systems for management review and approval; identify uses for Intranet and internet, and assure accuracy of assigned information.
Provide backup as needed for related positions (recruitment, employee experience, HRIS, benefits, leaves of absence).
Train new staff on using all components of HRIS.
Manage or assist in projects as assigned.
Attend meetings, trainings, and workshops as assigned.
Assist in administration of other human resources functions as directed.
Prepare correspondence and reports, for internal and external use.
Perform other duties as assigned.