Leave of Absence Specialist

Affinity Gaming•Las Vegas, NV

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Leave of Absence (LOA) Specialist is responsible for administering employee leave programs in accordance with federal, state, and local laws, as well as company policies and procedures. This role ensures compliance, effective communication, and a smooth process for employees requesting and taking leave, including but not limited to FMLA, CFRA, PDL, PFL, ADA, personal leave, military leave, and short-term/long-term disability. This position will act as the central point of contact for all leave needs and act as a resources to those in need of leave and to the restaurant managers. This position will work in-office in a corporate setting supporting a leaves for a restaurant environment.

Requirements

Excellent attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
Strong professional communication (verbal and written) with employees at all levels.
Ability to handle sensitive employee information with discretion.
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook); Experience with HRIS and leave management systems (e.g., UGK, BASIC, Sedgwick, Kronos).
Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Knowledge of federal and state leave laws, including FMLA, CFRA, PDLL, ADA, etc. (including eligibility and entitlements)
California knowledge required.
Bilingual in English/Spanish is required
5+ years of experience in Human Resources.
3+ years of experience in leave administration.
Must have strong knowledge of federal and state leave laws, including FMLA, ADA, HIPAA, and California-specific laws such as CFRA, PDL, PFL, SDI, FEHA, and California Workers’ Compensation requirements.

Nice To Haves

High volume restaurant experience preferred.
Certification such as SHRM-CP, PHR, or CEBS is a plus
Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field preferred.

Responsibilities

Process, track, and manage leave requests in adherence with FMLA, ADA, California leave laws (CFRA, PDL, PFL, SDI, FEHA, WC), and company policies.
Serve as the primary point of contact for employees requesting or currently on leave.
Review and process leave requests in a timely and accurate manner.
Maintain communication and act as a resource to employees, restaurant management, HR, and third-party administrators throughout the leave process.
Track leave balances, leave durations, and return-to-work dates.
Respond to State Disability and STD/LTD claim inquiries and requests for information
Coordinate return-to-work processes, including accommodation requests when applicable.
Maintain accurate and up-to-date leave records in HRIS (UKG) and leave management systems.
Educate employees and managers on leave policies and procedures.
Assist in policy development and recommend process improvements related to LOA administration.
Support HR initiatives related to wellness, absence management.
Support the HR Manager with special projects and process improvements.
Other duties as assigned.