Global Benefits & Leave Specialist – AI-Driven

Cisco; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Cisco's Global Benefits team seeks an experienced Benefits Program Specialist focused on leave, disability, and accommodations. You will ensure compliance, partner with vendors, and deliver exceptional employee experiences within our global, matrixed organization.

In this role you will analyze data, drive process improvements, and leverage AI tools to boost productivity and service quality while managing budgets and audits for leave programs across multiple states.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• 5+ years of experience in benefits administration with a specialization in leave, disability, and accommodations.
• In-depth knowledge of FMLA, ADA, ERISA, HIPAA, and regional/state-specific leave laws.
• Proven ability to manage relationships with third-party vendors and external partners.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel (e.g., VLOOKUP, pivot tables) and the Microsoft Office Suite.
• HRIS systems such as Workday and case management tools.

Responsibilities

• Manage end-to-end administration of leave programs (FMLA, ADA, disability, workers’ compensation) while ensuring compliance.
• Support employee needs through concierge and external vendor coordination.
• Provide guidance on benefit plan interpretation with deep subject matter expertise.
• Collaborate with senior management, IT, payroll, and Change Management to improve service delivery.
• Lead change management initiatives for benefits offerings and draft/update internal resources.

Skills

Leave & disability knowledge

Vendor management

Excel & Office

HRIS (Workday)

Data analysis

Education

Bachelor’s degree in HR/Business

Tools

Workday

Case management systems

Online vendor portals

Job description

Cisco's Global Benefits team seeks an experienced Benefits Program Specialist focused on leave, disability, and accommodations. You will ensure compliance, partner with vendors, and deliver exceptional employee experiences within our global, matrixed organization.

In this role you will analyze data, drive process improvements, and leverage AI tools to boost productivity and service quality while managing budgets and audits for leave programs across multiple states.