Leave of Absence & Human Resources Generalist

Location: Belle Plaine
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* Job Description:

** The Leave of Absence & Human Resources Generalist is responsible for owning, leading, and administering employee leave programs in compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, as well as company policies. This role serves as the primary point of contact for ensuring a smooth and supportive process that balances employee needs with organizational requirements and external providers services. In addition, this position will serve as HR Generalist for an assigned business unit, providing day-to-day support and guidance to employees and managers.

This position will be located in our Belle Plaine office with ability to work from home up to 2 days/week.
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* Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

** Leave of Absence Generalist Duties: 80%
* Lead the administration and coordination of all leave of absence programs, including FMLA, ADA, state-specific leaves, personal leaves, parental leave, military leave, and company-sponsored leave programs .
* Drive the leave process being the main contact for all employees, managers, HR, and 3rd party vendors regarding leave eligibility, documentation, and return-to-work procedures. Educate employees regarding leave of absence requests,  benefits and resources, and support employees through the duration of the leave up through return-to-work.
* Own the tracking, review of documentation, adjudication decisions, and management of leave requests, ensuring compliance with applicable laws and internal policies.
* Maintain thorough documentation and accurate records of leave activity and related documentation in HRIS and case management systems.
* Partner with managers and HR Business Partners to address employee leave concerns and minimize workplace disruptions.
* Lead collaboration with benefits, payroll, and worker’s compensation teams to ensure accurate benefit continuation, premium payments, wage replacement, and pay processing during leaves.
* Lead internal consultations on policy interpretation and complex leave case escalations. Own the guidance and training of employees and managers on leave processes, policies, and legal obligations, driving compliance and understanding.
* Proactively track and monitor changes in leave-related legislation and drive policy and/or process updates, as needed. Own the recommendation of these updates.
* Audit and analyze reports related to leave trends, usage, and compliance to inform HR leadership decisions and proposals.
* Lead all ADA accommodation requests by facilitating the interactive process with employees and managers.
* Drive continuous process improvements to enhance employee experience, efficiency, and regulatory adherence. For policy recommendations, prepare reports for HR leadership and lead implementation of changes.

HR Generalist Duties: 20%
* Partner with assigned business units to provide guidance around progressive development, including coaching and feedback, performance issues, employee conflicts, disciplinary actions, terminations, etc.
* Partner with assigned business units to communicate and deploy the company’s Talent Management Cycle
* Facilitate and deliver HR-related training to managers and employees on key HR topics (performance management, open enrollment, policy compliance, etc.)
* Provide other HR related support as required.
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* Qualifications & Skills:

*** Thorough knowledge of FMLA, ADA, and other federal/state leave regulations.
* Demonstrated competency of HR compliance and practices.
* Ability to tactfully advise and influence management in accordance with laws and best practices, ensuring that the decisions are in the best interests of the company and mitigate risk.
* Excellent organizational skills with strong attention to detail and accuracy.
* Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
* Outstanding customer service and interpersonal skills with the ability to create effective relationships throughout the organization.
* Strong interpersonal and communication skills - written and verbal - with the ability to professionally interact with Executives and Senior leaders.
* High level of integrity and ability to keep confidential information…