Leave Specialist

Diamondback Energy•Midland, TX

About The Position

The HR Leave Specialist is responsible for administering all leave of absence programs across the organization, ensuring employees receive timely, accurate, and compliant support throughout the leave process. This role manages FMLA, ADA, personal leave, parental leave, military leave, workers’ compensation coordination, and state specific leave requirements from intake through return to work. The Leave Specialist serves as the primary point of contact for employees and managers, providing clear guidance, maintaining accurate documentation, and ensuring compliance with federal, state, and company policies.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in human resources, business, or related field preferred; equivalent experience considered.
3–5 years of experience administering FMLA, ADA, or leave programs preferred.
Strong knowledge of federal and state leave laws (FMLA, ADA, USERRA, workers’ compensation, state leave statutes).
Exceptional attention to detail and ability to manage sensitive information with discretion.
Strong communication and customer service skills, with the ability to explain complex processes clearly.
Ability to manage multiple cases, deadlines, and priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
Demonstrated ability to remain calm, empathetic, and professional when supporting employees during challenging situations.

Responsibilities

Administer all leave programs, including FMLA, ADA, personal leave, medical leave, parental leave, military leave, and state‑specific leaves.
Manage the ADA interactive process, including gathering medical documentation, identifying potential accommodations, and coordinating with managers.
Facilitate return‑to‑work processes, including fitness‑for‑duty certifications, transitional duty, and accommodation plans.
Monitor restrictions and follow‑up dates, ensuring employees do not return to full duty without appropriate clearance.
Escalate complex ADA cases or unusual medical situations to the Director of Compliance & Employee Engagement.
Serve as the HR liaison for workers’ compensation claims, in partnership with the Legal Department, which maintains overall ownership of the workers’ compensation program.
Track work status reports, restrictions, and return‑to‑work updates.
Ensure alignment between workers’ compensation, ADA, and FMLA requirements.
Maintain complete and compliant leave files, ensuring all documentation meets federal, state, and internal standards.
Ensure timely delivery of required notices, including eligibility, designation, and rights & responsibilities.
Monitor state and federal leave law changes and apply updates to processes and communications.
Provide clear, empathetic guidance to employees, navigating leave options and requirements.
Educate managers on leave processes, timelines, and their responsibilities.
Communicate proactively to prevent delays, missed deadlines, or compliance risks.