Co-worker Leave of Absence Specialist

Co-worker Leave of Absence Specialist

A.Y. McDonald Industries is a family of companies that includes A.Y. McDonald Mfg. Co., Cambridge Brass, Chicago Fittings Corporation, JCM Industries, McDonald Plastic Molding, and Val-Matic Valve & Mfg. Corp. Each subsidiary works to take care of the customer - our boss. The first step in achieving this goal is taking care of our co-workers. To be a member of A.Y. McDonald means you thrive in a fast paced, innovative, and ever-changing atmosphere. Experience top notch benefits, advancement opportunities, and a team that wants you to succeed!

Job Summary

The Co-worker Leave of Absence Specialist administers and coordinates co-worker leaves of absence in compliance with federal, state, and company policies. This role serves as the primary point of contact for co-workers, managers, and external vendors regarding leave eligibility, documentation, and return-to-work processes, ensuring a consistent, compliant, and supportive co-worker experience. This is a new role to our organization, helping to streamline and provide the best experience while co-workers deal with whatever situation is causing a disruption in work.

Key Responsibilities Include

• Administer all leave programs, including FMLA, ADA/Reasonable Accommodation, short-term and long-term disability, workers' compensation, military leave, and applicable state/local leave laws
• Determine eligibility, track leave usage, and ensure accurate designation and documentation
• Maintain compliance with federal, state, and local regulations and internal policies
• Monitor overlapping leave types and coordinate benefits continuation as required

Co-worker & Manager Support

• Serve as the primary point of contact for co-workers and managers regarding leave questions and processes
• Clearly explain leave options, rights, responsibilities, and timelines
• Provide guidance to managers on attendance impacts, return-to-work expectations, and accommodations

Vendor & Internal Coordination

• Coordinate with third-party leave and disability vendors, payroll, benefits, and HR partners
• Ensure timely exchange of information and accurate recordkeeping
• Follow up on medical certifications, recertifications, and return-to-work documentation

Documentation & Recordkeeping

• Maintain confidential and accurate leave records in HRIS and co-worker files
• Generate reports related to leave usage, trends, and compliance
• Support audits and internal reviews as needed

Process Improvement

• Identify opportunities to improve leave processes, communication, and co-worker experience
• Assist with updating policies, procedures, and manager/co-worker resources
• Stay current on regulatory changes impacting leave administration

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field or equivalent experience
• 24 years of experience administering leaves of absence or benefits
• Working knowledge of FMLA, ADA, STD/LTD, and related employment laws
• Experience working with HRIS systems and leave tracking tools

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in a manufacturing or multi-location environment
• Familiarity with state-specific leave laws
• Experience coordinating with third-party leave administrators
• Bilingual in Spanish is a plus!

Key Competencies

• Strong attention to detail and confidentiality
• Clear, empathetic, and professional communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple cases and deadlines simultaneously
• Sound judgment and consistency in applying policies
• Collaborative approach with HR partners and leadership

Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.