Benefit Specialist- FMLA Management

Benefit Specialist- FMLA Management

Cayuga Health and its affiliates are the region's leading healthcare system and most trusted providers of integrated health services, empowering our people in our mission to equitably improve the well-being of the communities we serve. Our commitment to providing extraordinary healthcare begins with our team of extraordinary professionals who are continuously discovering clinical innovations and enhancing access to the most up-to-date facilities, equipment, technologies, and research protocols. Cayuga Health's commitment to our employees includes competitive compensation, comprehensive employee benefits programs, and the opportunity to explore and build a career in healthcare through our many professional development programs.

The Benefit Specialist - FMLA Management is responsible for administering and managing leave programs, including the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), state leave programs, and company leave policies. This role ensures compliance with federal, state, and local regulations while providing guidance and support to employees and managers on leave-related matters. The Specialist will coordinate with HR, payroll, and external vendors to streamline processes and enhance the employee experience.

Roles and Responsibilities:

• Administer FMLA and other leave programs in compliance with federal, state, and company policies, ensuring accurate record-keeping and timely tracking of leave balances and return dates.
• Serve as the primary contact for employees and managers on leave eligibility, processes, and documentation requirements.
• Process and communicate leave approvals, denials, or documentation needs while coordinating with payroll for proper pay adjustments and benefits continuation.
• Provide education and training on leave policies and procedures, collaborating with HR and Employee Relations on complex cases such as intermittent leave and accommodations.
• Liaise with third-party administrators, insurance providers, and medical professionals as necessary for leave management.
• Ensure compliance with federal and state leave regulations, including FMLA, ADA, Workers' Compensation, and paid family leave laws.
• Support audits, reporting, and continuous improvement initiatives by monitoring trends and staying updated on legislative changes and industry best practices.

Required Skills and Experience:

• Education & Experience- High School Diploma with 4 years benefit related experience or a Bachelors in a HR related field.
• Experience working in a multi-state environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook).

Preferred Skills and Experience:

• Certification in HR (e.g., PHR, SHRM-CP) or Benefits (e.g., CEBS, CBP) is a plus.

Physical Requirements:

• 90% sitting 10% standing

Location and Travel Requirements:

• Hybrid at CHS Warren Rd

Pay Range Disclosure:

• $65,000 to $75,000 per year

Cayuga Health System and its affiliates are committed to treating all patients, providers, staff and volunteers equitably and with dignity, ensuring the highest levels of safety, care and respect, and striving to recognize and overcome biases and policies that contribute to disparities in healthcare access, equitable care and positive health outcomes for all.

We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer, supporting the growth and health of our employees and community by embracing the rich diversity, needs and circumstances of all peoples and prioritizing opportunities to build a diverse and inclusive workplace. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable protected characteristics.

If you require reasonable accommodation to complete a job application, pre-employment testing, a job interview or to otherwise participate in the hiring process, please contact the Cayuga Health Talent Acquisition team at talentacquisition@cayugahealth.org.