Strategic Leave & Compliance Specialist

NORC at the University of Chicago

Chicago (IL)

Hybrid

USD 72,000 - 85,000

Full time

13 days ago

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Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement programs (401(k)/403(b))

Paid time off

Job summary

NORC at the University of Chicago is seeking a Leave Specialist to support employees through life events by administering leave and accommodation programs while ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. You will guide individuals through leave requests, disability accommodations, return-to-work planning, and related programs with professionalism and empathy.

This hybrid Chicago Loop role requires coordinating with Payroll, Benefits, Legal, and third-party leave

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
At least 3 years of experience in leave administration, benefits administration, or absence management.
Experience administering FMLA, ADA accommodations, disability programs, and multi-state leave requirements.

Responsibilities

Administer and coordinate employee leave programs, including: FMLA, ADA accommodations, Short-Term/Long-Term Disability, Paid Parental Leave, Workers' Compensation, military leave, and state/local leaves.
Serve as the primary liaison among employees, managers, HR, Payroll, Benefits, Legal, healthcare providers, and third-party leave administrators.
Manage leave cases from initial request through return to work, ensuring compliance with applicable laws, policies, and documentation requirements.
Lead and coordinate the ADA interactive process, including accommodation requests, documentation review, and ongoing case management.
Facilitate return-to-work planning, including fitness-for-duty certifications, transitional work arrangements, and employee reintegration.