Sr. Leave of Absence Specialist

University of California - Riverside; Oakland (CA); On-site; USD 68,500 - 121,900; Full time

Job summary

University of California - Riverside is seeking a Senior Leave of Absence Specialist to serve as the expert on FMLA, PDL, ADA and related leave programs. The role provides guidance to staff, faculty, supervisors and leadership on eligibility, rights and options, and coordinates with Central HR and campus partners to ensure compliant administration.

The position supports diverse employee populations across ASSET and campus divisions, emphasizing consistent interpretation and processing of leave

Qualifications

• Subject matter expert on FMLA, PDL, ADA and related leave programs.
• Advises employees, supervisors and leadership on eligibility and options.
• Interprets federal/state laws and UC policies for compliant leave admin.
• Collaborates with HR partners and campus committees on leave matters.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate and designate qualifying leave requests and track usage.
• Provide ongoing guidance throughout the leave process.
• Consult with Central HR, Disability Management, and campus partners.
• Promote consistent leave interpretation across ASSET-supported units.

Skills

Leave administration

FMLA knowledge

ADA compliance

Workers' compensation knowledge

Policy interpretation

Job description

Reporting to the Director of Human Resources and Executive Searches, the Senior Leave of Absence Specialist serves as the subject matter expert on leave administration, including the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), Pregnancy Disability Leave (PDL), the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Workers' Compensation, and other federally and state protected or University policy-covered leave programs. The position supports the organizations served by the Administrative Services & Strategic Executive Team (ASSET), including, but not limited to, Auxiliary Services; the Office of the Chancellor; the Office of the Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor; Division of Undergraduate Education; International Affairs; Enrollment Services; Planning, Budget & Administration; Facilities Services; Planning, Design & Construction; and Health, Well-being & Safety. As one of two Senior Leave of Absence Specialists supporting a diverse employee population, this position provides expert consultation and ongoing support to employees (staff and faculty), supervisors, and departmental leadership regarding leave eligibility, rights, responsibilities, and available leave options. The incumbent evaluates and designates qualifying leave requests, monitors leave usage and tracking, ensures timely receipt and review of required documentation, and provides ongoing guidance throughout the leave process. Interprets and applies applicable federal and state laws, University of California policies, and collective bargaining agreements while consulting, as appropriate, with Central Human Resources, Disability Management, Workers' Compensation, Academic Personnel, and campus human resources partners. The position plays a key role in promoting consistent interpretation and administration of leave policies and practices across all ASSET-supported organizations. In addition, the Senior Leave of Absence Specialist serves as the ASSET representative on campus-wide leave-related committees and workgroups, providing subject matter expertise and advocating for the interests of ASSET-supported departments while contributing to the development of consistent, compliant, and effective leave administration practices.

The full salary range for the Senior Leave of Absence Specialist is $68,500 - $121,900 annually. However, the expected pay scale for this position is up to $90,000 annually. We base salary offers on a variety of considerations, such as education, licensure and certifications, experience and other business and organizational needs.

Applicants must have current work authorization when accepting a UCR staff position. Currently, we are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa for staff.

As a University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements.