US Leave of Absence Specialist

Sandvik seeks a Leave of Absence Benefits Professional in US Headquarters (Mebane, NC) (Hybrid work schedule)

About Us:

Sandvik is a global leader in the mining, machining and materials processing industries. Sandvik is a dynamic and inclusive organization committed to providing exceptional support and innovative solutions to our customers. Our Benefits team prides itself on delivering expert, individualized support to our employees and we are committed to fostering a collaborative, supportive and inclusive work environment where every team member can thrive.

Key Responsibilities:

• Administer Leave Programs: Manage and administer all employee leave programs, including FMLA, short-term disability, salary continuation, long-term disability, parental leave, and other leave policies.
• Compliance: Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations related to employee leave, including FMLA, ADA, and other applicable laws.
• Employee Support: Provide education, guidance, and support to employees regarding leave policies, procedures, and eligibility requirements. Assist employees in navigating the leave process and address any questions or concerns.
• Communication: Develop and deliver clear and concise communications to employees regarding leave policies, procedures, and any changes to leave programs. Communicate with employees regarding their needs for leave and/or modified work schedules, ensuring they are aware of their responsibilities and required documentation.
• Documentation and Record-Keeping: Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of all leave requests, approvals, and related documentation. Ensure confidentiality and security of employee information.
• Coordination with Departments: Collaborate with HRBPs, payroll, and other departments to ensure seamless coordination of leave benefits and accurate processing of leave-related payments.
• Training and Education: Conduct training sessions and provide educational materials to employees and managers on leave policies and procedures.
• Reporting and Interaction: Run weekly Leave of Absence reports and distribute them to HR Business Partners. Interact with outside disability vendors and managers regarding the status of claims.
• Return to Work Coordination: Maintain communication with employees on leave to facilitate a smooth and timely return to work, relaying communication between employees and their managers.
• Leave Administration Process: Handle the leave administration process from the employee’s initial notice of the need for leave to the return to work, including gathering required paperwork, determining leave eligibility, requesting medical certification, and accounting for intermittent and reduced schedule leave use.
• Policy Advising and Development: Advise managers and employees on the interaction of leave laws with paid time off, salary coordination, and short-term and long-term disability benefits. Draft and/or recommend revisions to company leave policies to ensure compliance with federal, state, and local laws and regulations.
• Record Maintenance and Confidentiality: Maintain complete and accurate records of leave and accommodation requests in accordance with legal requirements and best practices. Preserve the confidentiality of employee medical documentation and files.
• Stay Informed: Stay updated on changes in leave regulations and industry best practices. Proactively communicate updates to employees and management.
• Backup Support: Provide backup support to the Benefits team as needed.
  
  

Qualifications:

• Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field with benefits exposure. Minimum of 3 years of experience in leave administration or a similar role.
• Knowledge and Skills: In-depth knowledge of federal, state, and local leave regulations, including FMLA, ADA, and other applicable laws. Proficiency in HRIS and leave management software.
• Analytical and Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Experience auditing your own work and that of others to ensure compliance and accuracy.
• Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Excellent collaboration, communication, and interpersonal skills. Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion.
• Customer Service: Knowledge of customer service concepts and techniques; ability to meet and exceed customer needs and expectations while providing service in a direct and indirect manner.
• Organizational Skills: Strong attention to detail and accuracy in record-keeping and documentation. Excellent organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously. Experience documenting processes, procedures, and statements of work.
• Work Style: Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Self-starter who is proactive in seeking out answers and solutions when faced with unfamiliar situations or questions. Highly organized, with the ability to develop and implement systems and processes that enable efficient project management.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications:

• Certification in Human Resources (e.g., PHR, SHRM-CP) or similar certification.
• Experience with HRIS and leave management systems.
• Completion of specialized certification or training on FMLA/leave administration: A plus.
  
  

Profile:

We value passionate, committed people who enjoy collaborating with others to find new solutions to complex business challenges. This role requires the type of person who speaks their mind, who listens to understand and who will step beyond to add value wherever they can. The ideal candidate is driven to get things done and views obstacles as exciting challenges that demand innovative solutions. Above all, this role requires one who takes great pride in their work and is inspired and motivated by their role.

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunities for professional development and growth.
• A supportive and collaborative work environment.
• Hybrid work arrangement.
  
  

How to Apply:

Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume and cover letter via Workday. (Reference Job Opening #R0074920)

Compensation range is $64k - $79k, depending upon qualifications and experience. This role is eligible for an annual bonus opportunity.

Sandvik is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law. Any applicant who, because of a disability, needs accommodation or assistance in completing an application or at any time during the application process should contact the Human Resources Department at HRsupport.US@sandvik.com. Sandvik also provides reasonable accommodations to employees with disabilities consistent with its obligations under the law.