Employee Leave Specialist
Department: Human Resources
Location: Grand Rapids, MI
The Employee Leave Specialist is a position that has a variety of customer service and data analytics functions. This person will support all employees through the various leave of absence requests available at GRCC, including FMLA, non-FMLA medical leaves, long-term disability, workers compensation and request for accommodation under the American with Disabilities Act (ADA). Supporting employees in the leave processes will also include coordinating with internal stakeholders in the process, including the HR Business Partners, Benefits Manager and Payroll Manager. In addition, this position will support compliance with the ACA and document retention. This position involves the use of judgment, attention to detail and specialized knowledge as well as collaboration. The Employee Leave Specialist will work with people at all levels of the organization, being able to share knowledge and expertise that is approachable is a must.
Position Number: 00001445
Requisition ID: 1008
Department: Human Resources
Employee Group: https://www.grcc.edu/faculty-staff/human-resources/employee-groups-resources/employee-groups/professional-management-administration
Schedule: 40 hours/52 weeks
Compensation: OP3; $51,425 to $61,710 Annually
Benefits: https://www.grcc.edu/faculty-staff/human-resources/benefits-insurance
Reports to: Benefits Manager
Posting Opens: 09/18/2025
Posting Closes: Open until filled
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Compliance Functions
• ACA tracking is completed on a bi-weekly basis but reviews the results with the Payroll Manager twice during the measurement period to review compliance.
• Maintain and update established tracking system for contingency and adjunct employees.
• Lead the administration of workers compensation to ensure compliance with local and state safety (MiOSHA/OSHA) laws and regulations.
• This includes case management and communicating with employees, supervisors and providers.
• Prepare and lead the external workers compensation audit, annually.
• Provide oversight of personnel files for all functions of Benefits, by overseeing the Perceptive Content process and delegating tasks internally.
• Ensure personnel files meet document retention compliance requirements.
• Perform regular audits of document types and employee files.
• Constantly evaluate current practices to ensure compliance.
• Review timesheets for employees on leave to ensure accurate recording of leave time.
• Process long term disability and workers compensation claims.
• Maintain compliance with labor law posters in every campus building.
• Review and understand the applicable collective bargaining agreements and employee handbook.
JOB SPECIFICATIONS
Education Credentials
• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources or closely related field.
Work Experience
• Minimum of 2 years of experience working within human resources or a similarly complex compliance role.
• Experience in higher education, preferred.
• Knowledge of software programs, with strong emphasis on PeopleSoft, Word, Excel and Perceptive Content.
Skills
• Detail Oriented: Attention to detail is crucial to maintain accurate records, review document and ensure compliance with leave policies and collective bargaining agreements
• Communication: Effective written and verbal communication skills are necessary for interacting with employees, management and external agencies, especially when explain leave policies and compliance matters.
• Empathy and Compassion: Helping employees going through leave situations requires empathy and compassion. Being sensitive to their needs and concerns is essential.
• Problem Solving: Leave and compliance specialists often deal with complex cases that require creative problem solving to balance employee needs with company policies and legal requirements.
• Collaboration: Works closely with HR Business Partners and department supervisors to ensure everyone is well informed on expectations, policies and follow up with employees.
• Customer Service: Providing good customer service to employees and addressing their concerns is an important aspect of this position.
NEXT STEPS / APPLICATION PROCESS
• Please complete an application: https://www.grcc.edu/faculty-staff/human-resources/careers. Submit a cover letter and resume.
• The opportunity to apply for this position will close at the end of the day on the close date referenced at the top of this job posting.
• Grand Rapids Community College is an equal opportunity employer. Visa sponsorship is not available.
NONDISCRIMINATION STATEMENT
Grand Rapids Community College creates an inclusive learning and working environment that recognizes the value and dignity of each person. It is the policy and practice of GRCC to provide equal educational and employment opportunities regardless of age, race, color, religion, marital status, sex/gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, height, weight, national origin, disability, political affiliation, familial status, veteran status or genetics in all programs, activities, services, employment and advancement including admissions to, access to, treatment in, or compensation in employment as required by state and federal law. GRCC is committed to reviewing all aspects of GRCC programs, activities, services and employment, including recruitment, selection, retention and promotion to identify and eliminate barriers in order to prevent discrimination on the basis of the listed protected characteristics. The college will not tolerate any form of retaliation against any person for bringing charges of discrimination or participating in an investigation. Further information may be obtained from the EEO Office or the Office of General Counsel, 143 Bostwick Avenue NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503-3295.
To apply, visit https://apptrkr.com/6634137
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