Leave of Absence Specialist- hybrid

We are looking for a Leave of Absence Analyst II to support leave administration for a health insurance organization in Minnetonka, Minnesota. This Long-term Contract opportunity is ideal for someone who is detail oriented and can interpret leave policies, apply federal and state regulations, and guide employees and leaders through complex absence-related matters. The person in this role will work closely with HR, management, legal partners, and an external leave administrator while delivering responsive, accurate service in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities:
• Oversee employee leave cases from initial request through resolution, confirming eligibility, certifications, and required actions in accordance with company guidelines and applicable laws.
• Maintain accurate case records by organizing and uploading documentation to the appropriate employee files and ensuring information is current and complete.
• Act as the primary contact between employees, HR teams, managers, and the external leave vendor to resolve issues efficiently and support a smooth leave experience.
• Monitor leave activity related to disability, family and medical leave, statutory leave, and workers’ compensation, escalating complex situations to leadership when needed.
• Explain leave policies and return-to-work expectations to employees and supervisors, including participation in interactive discussions when accommodations or case-specific guidance are required.
• Partner with payroll, benefits, employee relations, management, and legal stakeholders to address case impacts and maintain compliant administration practices.
• Identify opportunities to strengthen leave processes and collaborate with the third-party administrator on improvements and implementation efforts.
• Use reporting tools, Excel, and ticketing systems to track cases, review trends, and support daily operational needs, project work, and other assigned responsibilities.• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related discipline.
• 3 to 7 years of experience handling leave of absence cases within a mid-sized or large organization.
• 3 to 7 years of broader Human Resources experience supporting employee programs, policy administration, or related functions.
• Working knowledge of leave regulations and employment laws, including FMLA, disability programs, statutory leave, and workers’ compensation.
• Ability to manage sensitive employee matters with strong customer service, sound judgment, and clear communication.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and comfort learning multiple systems, generating reports, and analyzing case data.
• Experience partnering with a third-party leave administrator and coordinating with payroll, benefits, employee relations, and leadership.
• Availability to work onsite in Minnetonka, Minnesota at least three days per week, specifically Tuesday through Thursday.