Benefits Specialist

The Planet Group; New York (NY); On-site; USD 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

The Planet Group is seeking a Leave Management Specialist to administer and oversee employee leave and accommodations, ensuring compliance with federal, state, local, and university regulations. You will serve as the primary contact for leave-related matters and support employees, managers, and HR stakeholders through the leave process within the HR Shared Services model.

The role emphasizes compliance, data integrity, and a positive employee experience while coordinating with University

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in benefits and leave administration.
• Experience with FMLA, ADA accommodations, NY PFL, STD, and other leave programs preferred.
• Higher Ed industry experience preferred.
• Knowledge of confidentiality in handling medical information and HIPAA requirements.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary point of contact for all leave requests and administer employee leave programs.
• Coordinate and manage leave processes including FMLA, ADA accommodations, NY PFL, STD, military leave, and other university leave programs.
• Conduct intake consultations and counsel employees on leave options and benefits.
• Prepare documentation packets and maintain case communications throughout the leave lifecycle.
• Coordinate accommodations and return-to-work processes in collaboration with managers and University partners.

Skills

Benefits administration

Leave administration

Job description

• 2+ years of relevant experience in benefits administration with hands on experience in leave administration

Preferred Qualifications

• Higher Ed Industry experience

Leave Management Specialist – Performance Expectations & Standards

Position Purpose

The Leave Management Specialist is responsible for administering and overseeing employee leave and accommodation programs while ensuring compliance with federal, state, local, and University leave regulations. This role serves as the primary point of contact for leave-related matters and supports employees, managers, and HR stakeholders through the leave management process. The Leave Management Specialist promotes compliance, operational excellence, data integrity, and a positive employee experience within the HR Shared Services model.

Core Functional Responsibilities

Leave Administration & Case Management

• Serve as the primary point of contact for all leave requests
• Administer and manage employee leave programs, including but not limited to:
  • Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
  • Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accommodations
  • New York State Paid Family Leave (PFL)
  • Short-Term Disability (STD)
  • Military Leave
  • Other state, local, and University leave programs
• Determine employee eligibility for leave and accommodations in accordance with applicable laws, collective bargaining agreements, and University policies
• Conduct leave intake consultations and counsel employees regarding available leave options and benefits
• Prepare and distribute leave packets and required documentation
• Maintain ongoing communication and case management throughout the leave lifecycle

Accommodation & Return-to-Work Administration

• Facilitate interactive accommodation processes in coordination with employees, management, and University partners
• Coordinate workplace accommodations consistent with ADA requirements and University procedures
• Manage return-to-work processes following disability, workers' compensation, FMLA, and other leave programs
• Review fitness-for-duty and return-to-work documentation as required
• Collaborate with managers and stakeholders to ensure smooth reintegration into the workplace
• Coordinate with the University Leave Management Office and Benefits Office as necessary

Employee Support & Communication

• Communicate regularly with employees regarding leave status, documentation requirements, deadlines, and return-to-work expectations
• Provide compassionate, professional, and customer-focused support while handling sensitive situations
• Educate employees and managers regarding leave policies, procedures, and available resources
• Connect employees with available support services such as:
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Health Advocate
  • Wellness Programs
  • Other University resources

Leave Documentation & Records Management

• Maintain complete, accurate, and legally compliant leave and accommodation records
• Track leave balances, usage, certifications, extensions, and return-to-work documentation
• Ensure proper documentation is retained in accordance with record retention requirements
• Preserve confidentiality of medical information and records under HIPAA and University policies