Employee Accommodation Case Manager - ADA

Job Summary The Employee Accommodations Case Manager is responsible for administering complex and sensitive workplace accommodation cases, with a strong emphasis on compliance, consultation, and employee-centered service. This position leads the administration of workplace accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA), Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA), and related laws and policies. The Employee Accommodations Case Manager partners closely with employees, departments, absence program staff, and HR colleagues to ensure a seamless and supportive experience. This role facilitates the interactive process, supports accommodation implementation and return-to-work efforts, and ensures alignment with federal and state laws, university policies, and collective bargaining agreements. The position contributes to continuous improvement of integrated case management practices and collaborates regularly with absence management professionals when accommodation and leave issues overlap. Essential Functions Serves as the primary resource for faculty, staff, and department representatives seeking guidance on workplace accommodations, disability-related employment matters, and complex accommodation cases. Manages a portfolio of accommodation cases from intake through resolution, ensuring a compliant, timely, and employee-centered approach. Facilitates the interactive process by engaging employees, supervisors, medical providers, and other stakeholders to assess functional limitations and determine reasonable accommodations. Evaluates medical documentation and other supporting information to make accommodation determinations consistent with applicable laws and University policies. Coordinates accommodation implementation and monitors effectiveness, making adjustments as appropriate. Partners with leave program staff to coordinate cases involving both accommodations and leaves of absence, including return-to-work planning and transitional work arrangements. Interprets and applies relevant federal and state laws, including ADA, ADAAA, PWFA, and related regulations, and advises departments on appropriate action. Collaborates with employees, supervisors, and HR partners to identify solutions that support employee success while maintaining operational effectiveness. Maintains accurate, audit-ready case records using HRIS and case management systems; ensures data integrity and timely updates. Reviews and refines documentation, correspondence, and internal workflows to support compliance and consistency. Provides consultation and training to HR partners and department leaders on accommodation best practices and disability inclusion. Identifies trends, barriers, or service gaps and recommends process or policy improvements. Maintains the highest standards of confidentiality, professionalism, and cultural sensitivity. Other Functions Stays current on regulatory developments and industry best practices related to workplace accommodations and disability management. Supports reporting and analytics related to accommodation programs. Participates in cross-functional HR initiatives and projects related to integrated case management. Collaborates with absence management staff to ensure coordinated service delivery and consistent application of policies. Performs other related duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s degree and (3) three years of progressively responsible experience in human resources, disability management, workplace accommodations, employee relations, or a related field; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Working knowledge of ADA, ADAAA, PWFA, and related employment laws and regulations. Demonstrated ability to manage complex and sensitive accommodation cases independently. Strong consultation and problem-solving skills, with the ability to guide and support a range of stakeholders. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Proficiency with Microsoft Office and HRIS or case management systems (e.g., PeopleSoft, ServiceNow). Strong organizational skills with high attention to detail and accuracy. Preferred Qualifications Experience working in a unionized or higher education environment. Experience administering workplace accommodations in a large or complex organization. Experience collaborating with leave administration professionals to support integrated case management. Certification or training related to disability management, accommodations, or human resources. Working Conditions Work is performed in a standard office or indoor university environment and involves minimal physical exertion. Work Schedule and Work Arrangement Monday through Friday 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM Eastern Time Zone. This position has the opportunity for a remote work schedule, which is defined by the University as an arrangement where the employee’s work location is to work from a site other than the UMass Amherst campus. As this position is non-unit, it is subject to the terms and conditions of the University of Massachusetts Board of Trustees Non-Unit (Professional/or Classified) Employee Personnel Policy. Salary Information Pay Grade: PSSAP Grade 26 #J-18808-Ljbffr