FMLA/ADA & Worker's Compensation Specialist I or II

Position Summary

Under general direction, the incumbent ensures timely processing of the District’s Self-Insured Workers’ Compensation claims.  The incumbent processes leave requests and accommodations, particularly those arising under the Family and Medical Leave Act Program, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and state and local leave laws.  Incumbent will provide direction to line management regarding return-to-work status and guidance on essential functions. Assists Safety with OSHA determinations and advises medical surveillance program personnel when employee restrictions exist.  Incumbent will assist FMLA/ADA & Worker’s Compensation Specialist II with ongoing program development needs, the Employee Assistance Program and other related projects. 

Education, Training and Experience

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Human Resources, Legal Studies, or related field. With four years of professional level Human Resources related experience administering FMLA, Worker’s Compensation and American with Disabilities Act (ADA) is preferred.  Knowledge of OSHA regulations and legal experience preferred, but not required. 

OR

Associate degree in Business Administration, Human Resources, Legal Studies or related field with six years of professional level Human Resources related experience administering FMLA, Worker’s Compensation and American with Disabilities Act (ADA) is preferred.  Knowledge of OSHA regulations and legal experience preferred, but not required. 

OR

High School diploma with a paralegal diploma or certificate and eight years of professional level Human Resources related experience administering FMLA, Worker’s Compensation and American with Disabilities Act (ADA) is preferred.  Knowledge of OSHA regulations and legal experience preferred, but not required. 

Knowledge of OSHA regulations and legal experience preferred, but not required. 

Proficient in Microsoft Office products

Comfortable with performing and learning various computer-based programs.  
 

Licenses and/or Certifications

Certified Workers’ Compensation Professional – CWCP preferred, but not required. 

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Performs duties associated with the workers compensation program.  Such as, determine claim compensability and provide initial fact gathering on claims, ensure that claims are paid accurately and in a timely manner.

Track time off work due to work related injuries ensuring that injured employees are compensated in accordance with the NE WC Statutes as well as the District’s WC supplement program.  Coordinate and reviews claims with the third party administrator, health services, and medical providers.  Assist Safety with OSHA determinations. Work with outside legal counsel on litigated and/or difficult claims including trial preparation, testifying at trial, attending depositions, and ensuring that discovery is accurately answered by legal counsel.  Request, analyze and prepare reports as required by the Nebraska Workers Compensation Court to maintain Self-Insured status.  

Communicates with employees regarding their needs for leave and/or modified work schedules. Ensures that employees are aware of their responsibilities and of any documentation and notice required to qualify for and to take leave.  

Advises on FMLA and ADA processes in conjunction with HR Business Partners and management. Assist with medical surveillance restrictions. Serve as a consultant with professionals as needed to ensure compliance with all State and Federal Laws and regulations for FMLA, ADA, WC, and other programs as applicable. Ensure the District is compliant with record keeping as mandated by regulations/and District policy. 

Maintains return to work program that encompasses all time off work cases, including workers compensation, personal injuries or illnesses, parental and birth leave.  Work closely with HR Business Partners and management in returning employees to work.  Work with District medical director on fitness for duty and essential function evaluations for employees returning to work.  Assist with District LTD process relative to return to work issues, work comp and ADA. 

Coordinate the Employee Assistance Program, working with management, employees, and counselors to encourage and make effective use of the program. 

Ensure equal employment opportunities are provided for all employees through investigation of complaints, and education of management, relative to disability and medical issues. Provide guidance to HR Business Partners in the resolution of employee relation situations including disciplinary action and terminations when health issues may be involved.

Assist and provide resources/guidance regarding the coordination/monitoring of essential functions for all positions.

Accountable for other duties as assigned.

Core Competencies