Leave Specialist

Canvas•Lone Tree, CO

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Leave Specialist is responsible for administering and supporting employee leave programs in compliance with federal, state, and company policies. This role serves as the primary point of contact for employees and managers regarding leave of absence requests, ensuring a smooth, compliant, and empathetic experience throughout the leave lifecycle.

Requirements

Requires knowledge of HR policies and compliance, in addition to HR laws supporting leaves and benefits administration
Fluent working knowledge of applicable leave and accommodation laws, at federal, state, and local levels.
Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
Demonstrated external and internal relationship-building and consultative interactions.
Strong math and analytical abilities.
Ability to problem solve, innovate and make sound decisions.
Exceptional attention to detail with outstanding organizational and time management skills.
Must be able to manage multiple priorities with tight deadlines.
Strong knowledge of HR best practices, regulations, and laws.
Proficiency in HRIS platforms, MS Office, and MS Teams.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion.
Associate or bachelor’s degree in human resources or business administration, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
2–4 years of Human Resources experience with a preference for administering leaves of absence in a corporate or high-volume environment
Working knowledge of FMLA, ADA, and benefit continuation requirements
Hands-on knowledge of Colorado leave laws, specifically FAMLI and HFWA
Experience working with third-party leave administrators
HRIS experience, preferably UKG, not required

Nice To Haves

SHRM, PHR or Leave certificate preferred.

Responsibilities

Administer and track employee leaves of absence in compliance with: Colorado FAMLI (paid family and medical leave), Federal FMLA, Colorado Family Cares Act, Workers’ compensation, Military leave
Support employees with leave claim initiation and help them understand their rights and responsibilities
Generate and deliver required notices and communications in accordance with regulatory timelines
Review supporting documentation to determine eligibility, send required notices, and ensure all documentation is complete and compliant with regulatory timelines.
Track and manage continuous and intermittent leave usage
Coordinate return-to-work processes, including fitness-for-duty documentation, return to work accommodations, and job reinstatement
Communicate with employees when leave entitlement is approaching exhaustion and support them with potential next steps
Coordinate CO FAMLI benefits, Short-term disability claims, and paid time off usage to ensure employees do not exceed 100% of their compensation.
Coordinate payment of benefit premiums during approved leave periods
Manage benefits transition processes when leave entitlement is exhausted, including coordination and administration of COBRA notifications, eligibility, and employee communications in partnership with benefits and/or third-party vendors
Serve as the subject matter expert for employees regarding leave rights, policies, laws, pay benefits, and timelines
Educate employees and leaders on Leave benefits, application process, pay coordination, and return-to-work expectations
Partner with managers to ensure business continuity and compliance during employee absences
Provide compassionate, clear guidance during sensitive and complex leave situations
Ensure compliance with all Colorado, federal, and local leave laws, including posting, notice, and recordkeeping requirements
Monitor legislative changes affecting leave administration and recommend updates to policies and practices
Generate reports and metrics related to leave usage, trends, and compliance
Identify opportunities to improve employee experience and streamline leave processes