BENEFITS SPECIALIST (Leave of Absence/Workers Comp)

Scripps Research; San Diego (CA); Hybrid; USD 80,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employer Contributed Retirement Plan

Full Suite of Health and Welfare plans

Flexible Spending Accounts

Competitive vacation and sick leave policies

Free, on-site parking

Job summary

Scripps Research in La Jolla, California is seeking a Benefits Specialist (Leave of Absence/Workers Comp) to manage leave programs and Claims. You will coordinate federal and state compliance while providing excellent employee support throughout the process.

The ideal candidate has a background in LOA and Workers Compensation administration, strong organizational skills, and is detail-oriented. Competitive salary range is $80,000 to $90,000 annually, and the position includes comprehensive benefits such as health plans and a retirement plan.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience with LOA and Workers Compensation administration preferred.
• Knowledge of federal, state, and local human resources laws/regulations.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills to explain complex information.

Responsibilities

• Process leave programs and claims in compliance with employment laws.
• Manage documentation and communication for employees on leave.
• Oversee Workers Compensation claims and coordinate with departments.

Skills

Organizational skills

Project management

Communication skills

Attention to detail

HCM systems proficiency

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Scripps Research is a nonprofit biomedical institute ranked as one of the most influential in the world for its impact on innovation. We celebrated our 100-year legacy in 2024. This significant milestone marks a century of seminal discoveries in immunology, infectious diseases (such as COVID-19, flu, HIV), neuroscience, heart disease, cancer, and more. Located in La Jolla, California, the institute houses six research departments, multiple Nobel laureates, a top-ranked graduate school and a leading postdoctoral training program. Scripps Research encompasses two elite and highly innovative institutes, the Calibr‑Skaggs Institute for Innovative Medicines and Scripps Research Translational Institute, which merge foundational studies in biology, chemistry and computer science with translational science to produce pioneering drugs and advances in digital and precision medicine. Together, we cultivate new scientific leaders and expand the frontiers of knowledge to deliver medical breakthroughs impacting human health around the globe. If you have a passion for making a difference, this could be your opportunity to join our transformative team.

Position Title: Benefits Specialist (Leave of Absence/Workers Comp)

Position Summary

The Leave of Absence/Workers Comp Specialist is responsible for leave of absence, Workers Comp claim, and ADA Accommodation processing. Effectively coordinates all LOA cases/claims to include general administration, comprehensive case management and program compliance with FMLA, CFRA, PDL, SDI, PFL, and various state leave laws. Additionally responsible for ADA Accommodation requests, interactive process, and case management.

Responsibilities And Duties

• Interpret, determine eligibility, and administer leave programs and policies in alignment with federal and state employment laws including FMLA, ADA, USERRA, Pregnancy Discrimination Act, and more.
• Ensure HIPAA and Employee Privacy guidelines are rigorously upheld.
• Case management, oversee end-to-end processes for various leaves and accommodations. Work closely with employees, guiding them through the documentation process and maintaining communication with those on leave. Facilitate smooth returns to work for our employees.
• Process Worker Compensation claims, including coordination with TPA and department for work restrictions and accommodation requirements.
• Generate and manage reporting metrics and analytics for leave, Workers Comp, and ADA Accommodations cases.
• Collaborate closely with HRBP on leave and ADA cases, ensuring a synchronized approach to employee support.
• ADA Accommodation processing including interactive process, determination of reasonable accommodation approvals, case management, and communication between employee and department.
• Manage STD/LTD programs and vendor relationships. Ensure that STD/SDI claims are coordinated with FMLA, CFRA, PDL, and other leave types helping employees maximize their benefits.
• Work closely with Payroll to ensure proper PTO pay is coordinated with disability payments.

Requirements

• 3+ years’ experience with LOA and Workers Compensation administration preferred.
• Knowledge of pertinent federal, state, and local human resources laws/regulations.
• Ability to facilitate group discussions on LOA and benefits related topics.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Proficient with HCM systems and all Microsoft Office applications.
• High attention to detail for handling confidential and sensitive data, data entry, and record management.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills to clearly explain complex information to employees with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Adaptable to changing priorities while maintaining a high level of productivity.
• Discretion and professionalism in managing sensitive and confidential information.
• Ability to take initiative, and work independently and collaboratively, demonstrating a proactive and flexible approach to work.
• While subject to change based on business needs, this is an on-campus position requiring a minimum of 4 days per week working onsite from our La Jolla campus, with flexibility to work 1 day per week remotely from home.

Compensation

The expected hiring range for this position is $80,000 to $90,000/annually, commensurate with experience. Consideration will be given to experience that exceeds the listed requirements.

Comprehensive Benefits Include

• Employer Contributed Retirement Plan – Depending on eligibility, employees receive an employer contributed retirement plan (no employee contribution required) and the option to contribute to a 403(b) (which is similar to a 401(k) using your own pre or post‑tax dollars)
• Full Suite of Health and Welfare plans including three medical plan options (including an HSA available option), dental, vision, life insurance, disability, EAP and more
• Access to Flexible Spending Accounts (Medical/Dependent Care)
• Competitive vacation and sick leave policies
• Free, on-site parking

EEO Statement

The Scripps Research Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We promote diversity of thought, culture, and background in the fields of science. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic or status.