HUMAN RESOURCES SPECIALIST

As a UW employee, you have a unique opportunity to change lives on our campuses, in our state and around the world. UW employees offer their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to build stronger minds and a healthier world.
UW faculty and staff also enjoy outstanding benefits, professional growth opportunities and unique resources in an environment noted for diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty.
UW Human Resources is seeking a Human Resources Specialist to administer and advise on leave (FMLA, shared leave, parental leave, and other leave processes) for staff and academic personnel on all UW campuses. This is a full time, permanent position.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Lead administration of FMLA, FCA, UW Parental Leave, and Faculty Sick Leave processes for Seattle, Tacoma and Bothell campuses, including:
• Assess, determine eligibility, and approve/decline applications for FMLA, FCA, and parental leave for assigned client groups, adhering to University, State and federal requirements;
• Communicate disposition of leave requests using email and Workday;
• Maintain and follow up on missing or incomplete paperwork required to determine leave disposition, including contacting health care providers for clarification of their orders as necessary;
• Advise and counsel staff, managers, directors and administrators regarding types of leave, and leave-related regulatory compliance, UW policies, and contractual requirements;
• Consult with HR Consultants (HRCs) of assigned departments regarding complex leave situations
• Act as an expert resource on leave administration; participate in presentations and training to assigned departments
Shared Leave
• Determine eligibility and communicate approval/denial as above
• Advise and counsel staff, managers, directors and administrators regarding shared leave as above
• Calculate and process shared leave donations and returns
Other duties and projects related to leave policy/procedures
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
Bachelor's Degree in Human Resources or related field, with two to three years of relevant work experience.
Equivalent education/experience will substitute for all minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license/certification/registration.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
• Knowledge of federal and state regulations governing leave administration.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, including ability to communicate effectively with diverse populations.
• Ability and interest in analyzing, interpreting and applying complex policies and practices in order to successfully consult and problem solve with clients regarding leave administration.
• Ability to use independent judgment in providing information and assistance to clients.
• Ability and desire to work effectively as part of a team, establishing effective working relationships with colleagues and clients
• Ability to use tact and discretion with sensitive issues and maintain confidentiality of medical information.
• Ability to maintain helpful, professional demeanor while advising individuals who are in distress.
DESIRED:
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office, Outlook, Workday.
• Experience working in a union environment.
• Experience in a higher education institution strongly desired.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
• Hybrid, at least two days per week in office
Application Process:
The application process for UW positions may include completion of a variety of online assessments to obtain additional information that will be used in the evaluation process. These assessments may include Work Authorization, Cover Letter and/or others. Any assessments that you need to complete will appear on your screen as soon as you select "Apply to this position". Once you begin an assessment, it must be completed at that time; if you do not complete the assessment you will be prompted to do so the next time you access your "My Jobs" page. If you select to take it later, it will appear on your "My Jobs" page to take when you are ready. Please note that your application will not be reviewed, and you will not be considered for this position until all required assessments have been completed.
Committed to attracting and retaining a diverse staff, the University of Washington will honor your experiences, perspectives and unique identity. Together, our community strives to create and maintain working and learning environments that are inclusive, equitable and welcoming.
The University of Washington is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.
To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or dso@uw.edu.
Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.