Senior HR Specialist – Employee Relations and Leave & Disability Management
Position Overview:
Provide consultation and assistance to the University of Iowa HR representatives, supervisors, and employees as it relates to human resource policies, practices, job performance, pay practices, collective bargaining labor law and leave/disability management, consistent with university mission and values, philosophy, policies and applicable state and federal law. Services within ELR role include but are not limited to conducting effective employment investigations, consultation regarding progressive discipline, interpretation and application of collective bargaining agreements, and resolution of grievances. Services within FSDS role include but are not limited to full scope processing of medical leave of absence requests and requests for workplace accommodations; specifically, this position will process and track medical documentation and correspondence for leaves of absence under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), and workplace accommodation requests under the Americans with Disabilities (ADA); provides individual case management for leave and disability matters for assigned areas, and assists with development of leave and disability educational training for University of Iowa supervisors and Human Resources professionals.
This position is eligible for hybrid work within Iowa and will require a work arrangement form to be completed upon the start of your employment. Per policy, work arrangements will be reviewed annually, and must comply with the remote work program and related policies and employee travel policy when working at a remote location.
Specific Job Tasks:
- Establish and provide effective consultative services to UI HR representatives, supervisors and employees regarding employee and labor relations issues and processes.
- Cultivate and expand relationships internally with human resource representatives, managers, employee groups and externally with union representatives that enhance employee and labor relations capability.
- Process FMLA/non-FMLA leave requests and lead ADA accommodation process for assigned colleges and departments.
- Interpret health information to determine leave of absence and accommodation needs.
- Respond to routine questions about leave & disability management.
- Advise/consult with HR representatives, supervisors and employees regarding employment related problems and disputes, providing consultation and recommendations to support best practices, minimize risk and advance the mission and goals of the University.
- Identify and assist in responding to requests for leave and/or accommodations. Review correspondence, certifications, and conduct analysis and prepare reports as needed related to leave and/or accommodation requests. May identify and refer situations to other resources within University Human Resources as needed.
- Responsible for guiding day to day administration of policies and support application of best practices.
- Develops and delivers technical training on effective employment practices, including employee investigations, performance management and contract administration.
To obtain the full job description including key areas of responsibility, technical competencies, and desirable qualifications, please contact jade-o-rogers@uiowa.edu.
Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources Management or related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Experience (typically 3 – 5 years) working effectively with complex employment and labor relations issues and/or leave/disability management.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Demonstrates extensive knowledge and ability to:
- apply and assure compliance with principles of progressive discipline, policy compliance, collective bargaining agreements in administering all aspects of HR policies and practices or
- administer leave and accommodation request under the Family & Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
- monitor compliance of HR policies, standards, and procedures.
- effectively communicate, build relationships, and work with a variety of individuals and groups, in a constructive and collaborative manner.
- manage multiple concurrent objectives, projects, or activities, making effective judgments as to prioritizing and time allocation.
A working knowledge and ability to:
- implement confidential investigations and resolution processes.
- Interpret and take action on the aspects of employment laws that impact employee and labor relations or leave/disability management.
Desirable Qualifications:
- Juris Doctor or Master’s degree in Business Administration or related field.
- Working knowledge of University policies and procedures, includes those covered by the merit system, SEIU, AFSCME, and COGS.
- Working knowledge of relevant employment policies, laws and best practices applicable to a public employer in Iowa.
- HR-related certifications (PHR, SHRM-CP, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, CLMS)
Application Details:
In order to be considered for an interview, applicants must upload the following documents and mark them as a “Relevant File” to the submission:
- Resume
- Cover Letter
Job openings are posted for a minimum of 14 calendar days and may be removed from posting and filled any time after the original posting period has ended. Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check and credential/education verification. Up to 5 professional references will be requested at a later step in the recruitment process. For questions, contact Jade Rogers at jade-o-rogers@uiowa.edu.
Benefits Highlights:
Regular salaried position. Pay Level 4A. Located in Iowa City, Iowa.
Fringe benefit package including paid vacation; sick leave; health, dental, life and disability insurance options; and generous employer contributions into retirement plans.
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Equal opportunity/affirmative action employer
The University of Iowa is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment free from discrimination on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, pregnancy (including childbirth and related conditions), disability, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, service in the U.S. military, sexual orientation, gender identity, or associational preferences.
Persons with disabilities who need assistance or accommodations with the application or interview process may contact University Human Resources/Faculty and Staff Disability Services, (319) 335-2660 or fsds@uiowa.edu. For jobs in UI Health care, please contact UI Health care Leave & Disability Administration at 319-356-7543.
