Workers Compensation Manager

Smithfield Foods•Sioux Falls, SD

About The Position

The Workers’ Compensation Manager is responsible for overseeing all workers’ compensation claims and return-to-work activities utilizing the company's Workers’ Compensation Claims Management Program. This role serves as the primary liaison between employees, Third-Party Administrators (TPAs), medical providers, management, and other stakeholders to ensure timely claim resolution, regulatory compliance, cost control, and successful employee rehabilitation and return to work. The Workers’ Compensation Manager acts as both a claims specialist and employee advocate, providing oversight throughout the life cycle of each claim, ensuring thorough investigations, effective case management, and adherence to Workers’ Compensation laws and applicable federal regulations.

Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree from a regionally accredited four-year college or university and 5+ years of experience managing workers compensation claims and related areas; or equivalent combination of education and experience, required.
Minimum of 2+ years’ experience in a position of leadership to include team development and management, required.
Must understand the dynamics of workers' compensation in multiple states.
Understanding of the litigation process related to workers’ compensation claims.
Must have a solid understanding of the third party administration process.
Strong critical thinking and problem solving skills.
High level of written and verbal communication skills, organizational planning, teamwork, analytical reasoning, and adaptability.
Knowledge and experience of MSOffice, including Excel, Word and PowerPoint; Enterprise and Global Risk Advantage systems.
Ability to work well with others in fast paced, dynamic environment.
Ability to be respectful, approachable and team oriented while building strong working relationships and a positive work environment.

Responsibilities

Manage the full lifecycle of workers’ compensation claims from injury reporting through resolution.
Partner with TPAs, medical providers, legal counsel, and internal stakeholders to ensure effective claim management.
Review claims, investigations, and medical documentation to support timely and appropriate outcomes.
Participate in claim reviews, hearings, mediations, and litigation matters as needed.
Administer and oversee transitional duty and return-to-work programs.
Coordinate employee work restrictions, accommodations, and return-to-work plans.
Work with HR and operations to support compliance with ADA, FMLA, and related regulations.
Ensure compliance with South Dakota workers’ compensation laws and company policies.
Maintain accurate claim records and support audits and reporting requirements.
Identify claim and injury trends and recommend strategies to reduce risk and costs.
Collaborate with HR, EHS, Health Services, and Operations to support injury prevention efforts.
Assist with incident investigations and corrective action initiatives.
Communicate significant claims issues, injury trends, and risk concerns to Regional Managers and site leadership.
Prepare claim status reports and program metrics for leadership.
Maintain confidential records and ensure appropriate documentation.
Perform other duties as assigned.