HR Business Partner
Position Summary
The HR Business Partner - Leave Administration & Employee Relations serves as the organization's primary subject matter expert for employee leave and accommodation programs while providing guidance on performance management and employee relations matters. This role is responsible for administering all requests related to the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), state leave laws, and workplace accommodations. The position also partners closely with managers to address performance concerns, conduct investigations, ensure compliance with employment laws, and mitigate organizational risk.
Essential Duties And Responsibilities
Leave & Accommodation Administration
Serve as the organization's sole administrator for all FMLA, ADA, PWFA, and applicable state leave requests. Manage the full lifecycle of leave requests, including intake, eligibility determination, certification review, approvals, extensions, return-to-work planning, and case closure. Lead the interactive process for ADA and other accommodation requests. Evaluate medical documentation and collaborate with employees, healthcare providers, managers, and legal counsel when appropriate. Coordinate reasonable accommodations while ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. Maintain accurate documentation and confidential employee medical records. Partner with third-party leave administrators and disability insurance carriers, as applicable. Monitor leave usage and identify trends or compliance concerns.Performance Management & Employee Relations
Advises leaders on employee performance issues and corrective action. Coaches managers on performance improvement plans (PIPs), documentation, coaching conversations, and progressive discipline. Conducts workplace investigations involving employee complaints, misconduct, policy violations, and workplace concerns. Recommends appropriate corrective actions consistent with company policy and legal requirements. Supports employee terminations and separation processes. Assists with conflict resolution and facilitates difficult workplace conversations.Compliance & Policy Administration
Ensures compliance with FMLA, ADA, PWFA, USERRA, workers' compensation coordination, and applicable employment laws. Maintains and updates HR policies related to leave, accommodations, attendance, and employee conduct. Stays informed of changes in employment legislation and recommends policy updates. Prepares reports and metrics related to leave administration, accommodations, and employee relations.Manager & Employee Support
As directed, educates managers and employees regarding leave rights, accommodation processes, and performance management expectations. Develops training materials and conducts manager education sessions in coordination with operational needs. Serve as a trusted advisor on sensitive employee issues while maintaining confidentiality.
Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field (or equivalent experience).
5+ years of progressive HR experience.
Minimum 3 years administering FMLA, ADA accommodations, and employee relations matters.
Strong knowledge of federal and state employment laws.
Experience conducting workplace investigations.
Experience coaching leaders on performance management and disciplinary processes.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail.
Ability to manage multiple complex cases simultaneously while maintaining strict confidentiality.
Preferred
SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, PHR, or SPHR certification.
Experience with HRIS and leave management systems.
Experience partnering with legal counsel and third-party leave administrators.
Multi-state employment law experience.
Physical Requirements
Ability to work in a standard office environment.
Ability to sit, stand, and use a computer for extended periods.
Occasionally lift up to 20 pounds.