Senior Leave & Accommodation Strategist

Columbia Banking System; Tacoma (WA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 125,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

401(k) match

Life insurance

Tuition assistance

Mental health resources

Disability insurance

Paid time off

Volunteer days

Holidays

Job summary

Columbia Bank in Tacoma, WA is seeking a Sr Absence Management Specialist to lead complex casework on leave and accommodations, serving as a senior expert across absence programs. The role partners with People Business Partners, Employee Relations, and senior leaders to ensure regulatory alignment.

You will independently manage high‑risk cases, collaborate with a third‑party administrator, and drive reporting, policy updates, and process improvements. Occasional travel may be required.

Qualifications

• Experience evaluating absence and accommodation programs and applying ADA/leave laws.
• Ability to consult, advise, and influence business leaders on complex cases.
• Strong written and verbal communication across all levels of the organization.

Responsibilities

• Lead complex leave and accommodation casework and manage high‑risk scenarios.
• Coordinate with third‑party administrators for case handling and data accuracy.
• Advance policy updates, regulatory research, and risk mitigation strategies.
• Own program reporting, analytics, and stakeholder communications.
• Deliver enterprise‑wide training on compliance and manager responsibilities.

Skills

ADAAA knowledge

FMLA/leave laws

Regulatory compliance

Consulting/ influencing leaders

Communication skills

Independent work

Analytical skills

Workday experience

Education

Bachelor's degree in business or relevant field

Tools

PowerPoint

Word

Outlook

Excel

SharePoint

Job description

Columbia Bank in Tacoma, WA is seeking a Sr Absence Management Specialist to lead complex casework on leave and accommodations, serving as a senior expert across absence programs. The role partners with People Business Partners, Employee Relations, and senior leaders to ensure regulatory alignment.

You will independently manage high‑risk cases, collaborate with a third‑party administrator, and drive reporting, policy updates, and process improvements. Occasional travel may be required.