Leave of Absence Specialist

Leave of Absence Specialist Full-time Work Format: Hybrid Harvard Job Function: Human Resources Union: 55 - Hvd Union Cler & Tech Workers Salary Grade: 056 Department: Human Resources FLSA Status: Non-exempt Company Description By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive. Why join the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health? The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health is a world-renowned institution dedicated to advancing public health through cutting-edge research, education, and global collaboration. Our school is a special place to work because of its vibrant, mission-driven community, interdisciplinary approach, and commitment to addressing some of the most pressing health challenges worldwide. We foster a collaborative and inclusive work environment where innovation, continuous learning, and work-life balance are valued. Learn more about the School’s mission, objectives, and core values , our Principles of Citizenship , and about the Dean’s AAA vision about our school’s ongoing strategic initiatives. Job Description Job Summary: The Leave of Absence Specialist provides Leave of Absence (LOA) support and case management services to employees and key stakeholders. This role serves as the main contact and subject matter expert for the Harvard Longwood Campus employees on LOA resources available, as well as University policies and guidelines interpretation regarding any type of Leave of Absence, including Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), Short Term Disability (STD), Long Term Disability (LTD), Massachusetts Paid Family Medical Leave (MA PFML), Worker’s Compensation, Military leaves, and paid/unpaid personal leaves. Job-Specific Responsibilities: Responsible for responding to inquiries from employees who have a need for a leave; ensuring that employees have eligibility information and know how to request leave and/or file a claim with the respective vendor for the type of leave they are seeking. Provides end-to end case management and consultative support to employees and managers throughout the leave process. Provides information and guidance to the employee, manager, disability payroll, local payroll, and HR during the claims process, including communicating changes regarding leave status, return to work arrangements and collaborating on reasonable accommodation processes. Works closely with disability payroll, local unit payroll and administrators to ensure accurate payroll processing and information is up to date for all employees on leave and returning from leave. Responsible for developing leave related communications and sending to employees within appropriate timeframes based on policy guidelines. Serves as liaison with STD/LTD and Worker’s Compensation vendors for timely follow up and proactive conflict resolution. Partners closely with key stakeholders (HR, Legal, UDR) on sensitive and/or multilayered cases while adhering to strict privacy and confidentiality requirements. Collaborates with HR on trend identification and risk mitigation. As subject matter expert applies knowledge of FMLA, MA PFML, Workers Compensation, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Harvard Policy to reach appropriate decisions; refers to appropriate resources and coordinates ADA accommodation meetings Interprets University guidelines and policies and determines how they apply to specific situations; Discerns which cases require input/action by HR Consultants, OGC and/or OLER, or other partner and works as team lead to ensure a seamless and positive experience for employees and managers during the Leaves process. Maintain LOA data and creates periodic and year end reports and trends. Responsible for the inputting and maintenance of worker’s compensation claims into the