Leave Specialist

About the role

Kelly is seeking a Leave Specialist to work with our client in the higher education industry on a temporary basis for 5 months, starting ASAP. This is an excellent opportunity to work on a team that is responsible for managing the organization’s leave of absence programs.

Responsibilities

• Administer leave programs, including sick leave, Family and Medical Leave (FMLA), parental leave, short- and long-term disability, military leave, and personal leaves of absence
• Ensure leave programs are administered consistently and equitably across the organization
• Process leave-related transactions in PeopleSoft, adhering to established policies, regulations, and legal requirements; analyze utilization trends using reports and dashboards
• Respond to employee inquiries via phone (ACD system) and email (CRM); create and manage cases within the CRM system
• Track all stages of the leave process and ensure appropriate accommodations are provided
• Collect, review, and audit required documentation to determine eligibility and process updates in compliance with policies and procedures
• Collaborate with benefits and payroll teams to ensure accurate coordination of leave-related matters
• Provide guidance and support to employees and staff regarding leave programs and processes
• Communicate with HR Business Partners, employees, managers, and third-party administrators regarding eligibility, approvals, low balances, return-to-work processes, and extensions
• Develop and generate reports to monitor utilization, identify trends, and support decision-making
• Promote an inclusive work environment and contribute to a supportive, employee-centered culture
• Respond to individual requests and inquiries in accordance with policies, procedures, and applicable laws
• Maintain strict confidentiality of employee medical information and records
• Stay current on applicable leave and accommodation laws, including FMLA, ADA, and state and local regulations
• Draft and recommend updates to leave policies to ensure ongoing legal compliance

Qualifications

• Prior experience administering or supporting employee leave programs (e.g., FMLA, disability, or other leaves of absence) strongly preferred
• Familiarity with federal and state leave laws, including FMLA and ADA
• Knowledge of new Minnesota Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) is a plus
• Ability to interpret and apply policies, procedures, and legal requirements accurately and consistently
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple cases and deadlines simultaneously
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with employees, managers, and cross-functional teams
• Experience working with HR systems (like PeopleSoft), case management tools, or CRM platforms (like Salesforce)
• High attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate, confidential records
• Problem-solving skills with the ability to handle sensitive situations with professionalism and discretion
• Commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive employee experience

Benefits

As part of our promise to talent, Kelly supports those who work with us through a variety of benefits, perks, and work-related resources. Kelly offers eligible employees voluntary benefit plans including medical, dental, vision, telemedicine, term life, whole life, accident insurance, critical illness, a legal plan, and short-term disability. As a Kelly employee, you will have access to a retirement savings plan, service bonus and holiday pay plans (earn up to eight paid holidays per benefit year), and a transit spending account.

Schedule

This position can be hybrid or remote (Twin Cities candidates only)

Pay

$30-35/hr DOE