Absence Management Specialist

Our client is seeking an Absence Management Specialist to provide responsive, high-quality support to employees on HR-related questions including policies, benefits, leave, and payroll. US citizens and those authorized to work in the US are encouraged to apply. Work sponsorship is not available at this time. Length of Assignment – 6+ months likely to extend. Compensation – $28-35 Hourly Additional Compensation: This position is not eligible for bonus or incentive compensation. Benefits: Benefits available to eligible employees or consultants may include medical, dental, and vision insurance, paid sick leave, retirement savings plans, and other employer-sponsored programs. Role Overview We are seeking an experienced Absence Management Specialist to support the full lifecycle of employee leave administration and workplace injury programs. This role is responsible for ensuring compliance with federal, state, and company leave policies while providing exceptional support to employees, managers, and HR partners throughout the leave process. The ideal candidate will have a strong Human Resources background with direct experience in leave administration, workers' compensation, and multi-state compliance. This position requires excellent communication skills, attention to detail, discretion, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. Key Responsibilities Manage the end-to-end administration of employee leave programs, including: FMLA ADA accommodations State-specific leave programs Company-sponsored leave benefits Guide employees through the leave process from initiation through return-to-work. Review and process leave requests while ensuring compliance with applicable laws and internal policies. Coordinate with Payroll and HR teams to ensure accurate pay, PTO usage, and leave coding. Track leave timelines, approvals, extensions, and return-to-work documentation. Partner with managers and HR stakeholders to address leave-related concerns and employee accommodations. Maintain accurate and confidential employee records. Stay current on federal, state, and local leave regulations. Generate reports and analyze leave trends, utilization, and compliance metrics. Recommend process improvements and support HR operations initiatives as needed. Assist with workers' compensation administration and case management. Support additional HR projects and programs as assigned. Required Qualifications 1-3 years of Human Resources experience with direct responsibility for: Leave of Absence Administration Absence Management Workers' Compensation Knowledge of multi-state leave laws, particularly: Washington California Arizona Strong understanding of FMLA, ADA, and related employment regulations. Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple cases simultaneously. Ability to maintain strict confidentiality and handle sensitive employee information. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Experience partnering with operational leaders and employees in fast-paced environments. High school diploma or equivalent. Valid driver's license and reliable transportation. Ability to successfully pass background screening and drug testing. Preferred Qualifications Experience supporting employees in unionized environments. HR certification such as: PHR SHRM-CP SHRM-SCP Additional experience in HR Operations or Employee Relations. Strong customer service mindset with a high-touch employee support approach. Ability to work independently while collaborating across departments. #J-18808-Ljbffr