Sr Leave & Accommodation Specialist

About the role

The Sr Leave & Accommodation Specialist serves as a highly hands-on subject matter expert responsible for the end-to-end execution of complex leave and workplace accommodation cases, combining deep technical expertise in ADA/ADAAA, disability, and leave regulations with direct case management ownership.

Responsibilities

• Manages a full caseload of complex leave and accommodation cases from intake through resolution, including documentation, determinations, and implementation.
• Leads the interactive process by evaluating medical information, identifying reasonable accommodations, and partnering with enterprise leaders to implement effective solutions.
• Ensures timely, compliant execution by maintaining ongoing communication, overseeing case timelines and documentation, and driving adherence to all regulatory and internal requirements.
• Serves as a subject matter expert in leave and accommodation laws, ensuring all cases are managed in full compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
• Interprets and applies evolving legal requirements in real time to active cases, making sound, compliant decisions.
• Collaborates with Legal on complex matters while retaining hands-on responsibility for execution and implementation.
• Ensures accurate, real-time case documentation and tracking in Workday and related systems while maintaining data integrity and confidentiality.
• Actively manages open cases to drive timely resolution, removing barriers and escalating issues as appropriate.
• Identifies process improvement opportunities and coordinates seamless return-to-work logistics, including system access, workplace readiness, and stakeholder alignment.
• Serves as the primary point of contact for team members and cross-functional partners, ensuring clear and consistent communication throughout each case.
• Translates complex regulatory requirements into practical, actionable guidance for leaders and employees.
• Collaborates with HR, Legal, Benefits, and operational teams to balance compliance, business needs, and team member support.
• Provides hands-on coaching and case consultation to junior team members, reinforcing strong execution of the interactive process and documentation standards.
• Delivers practical, scenario-based training to managers and HR on accommodation and leave policies.
• Conducts case reviews and analyzes trends to identify risks, patterns, and opportunities for improvement.
• Delivers data-driven insights and recommendations to strengthen programs and support informed decision-making.
• Supports internal audits to ensure documentation and practices meet regulatory and compliance standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Healthcare, or related field required.
• Master’s Degree preferred.
• Minimum seven (7) years of directly managing complex leave and accommodation cases, with demonstrated hands-on expertise in the interactive process and regulatory application required.

Skills

• Proven experience independently resolving high-risk and escalated cases.
• Strong experience collaborating with Legal, Risk, and Compliance in real-time case handling.
• Experience in high-volume, regulated environments (e.g., healthcare, gaming) strongly preferred.
• Deep expertise in ADA/ADAAA, FMLA, CFRA, FEHA, workers’ compensation, and applicable state/local laws.
• Strong knowledge of the interactive process, reasonable accommodations, disability management, and return-to-work strategies.
• Understanding of compliance requirements, audit readiness, risk mitigation, and case law application.
• Proficiency in HRIS systems (e.g., Workday, Leave Case Mgmt.) and maintaining accurate, audit-ready documentation.
• Advanced case management skills, with ability to independently manage complex, high-volume caseloads.
• Strong critical thinking and decision-making skills to assess risk and determine compliant, practical solutions.
• Effective communication skills to translate complex regulations into clear, actionable guidance.
• Analytical and process improvement skills, including data analysis, trend identification, and operational enhancements.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment in high-risk, sensitive, or ambiguous situations while maintaining confidentiality.
• Ability to influence stakeholders, balance compliance with business needs, and drive cases to timely resolution in a fast-paced environment.

Benefits and Other Information

At the discretion of the San Manuel Tribal Gaming Commission, you may be required to obtain and maintain a gaming license. Professional Human Resources (PHR), Senior Professional Human Resources SPHR or Certified Leave Management Specialist (CLMS) certification preferred. Role requires regular commuting between locations. A valid driver's license and vehicle insurance with minimum liability limits is required.