Leave Administrator 1 Jobs

Metra is one of the largest and most complex commuter rail systems in North America, serving Cook, DuPage, Will, Lake, Kane, and McHenry Counties. The agency is linking communities in Northeastern Illinois by providing safe, reliable, and efficient commuter service.

Metra’s Human Resources Department’s mission is to recruit and retain qualified employees in a diverse workforce; treat all employees fairly; facilitate training and professional development for career growth; effectively manage and administer compensation; negotiate and administer flexible benefit programs that provide quality and value; administer medical leaves and related services; promote wellness; provide confidential and efficient records administration; ensure that Metra’s policies and procedures comply with all laws governing employment, benefits and other ancillary services; and foster an environment of trust and mutual respect with employees as well as internal and external partners. Human Resources is staffed with 30 employees.

Reporting to the Manager, Medical Services, the Leave Administrator 1 serves as intake coordinator for leaves of absence and is responsible for the successful day-to-day support and execution of the leave of absence (FMLA and Non-FMLA) process from initial request by employees through the determination of eligibility. The position is also responsible for the organization, coordination, and processing of paperwork and data to ensure compliance with time lines and internal policies.

The Primary Duties include: Serves as intake or return to work coordinator; determines eligibility for Family and Medical Leave Act and other leaves at intake; and communicates with employees when requests are initially received, including educating and guiding employees of their responsibilities for next steps and how to return to work from leave. Tracks and codes documentation in accordance with internal work-flow processes. Documents all aspects of interaction with employees and managers in the system of record to ensure proper processing of leave requests, and maintains electronic and paper files. Participates in weekly team meetings regarding work flow, leave case statuses, assessment, and process modifications. Creates and disseminates periodic reports. Assists in the development of leave administration processes and other duties as assigned. Promote safe work practices and maintain and foster a safe work environment. Perform other related duties as assigned to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.

Final salary will be determined in part by the qualifications of the selected candidate.

Metra is a railroad employer subject to the provisions of the Railroad Retirement Tax Act, not the Social Security Administration.

Job Requirements

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Working knowledge of HR systems and processes.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office 365.
• In addition to #1, must have one year of human resources experience
• Ability to handle all information, calls, and requests with professionalism and confidentiality.
• Bachelor's degree or, in lieu of specified degree, a combination of education and experience may be substituted that equals four years in human resources or related field.
• Ability to set priorities, manage time effectively, and adhere to strict guidelines for processing FMLA leaves.
• Ability to handle stressful situations and demonstrate patience, flexibility, and a cooperative attitude.
• Ability to work both independently and with a team.
• Working knowledge of FMLA rules and administration.
• Good customer service skills.
• Ability to lift and move up to 10 pounds.
• Ability to identify and escalate sensitive matters and cases to management.
• Good record keeping, organizational, and problem solving skills.

Preferences:

• Experience leave case management.

Please note: Regardless of any state laws that legalize marijuana, Metra prohibits applicants and employees’ use or possession of marijuana (or marijuana paraphernalia), or having detectable amounts of marijuana in their bodies, including synthetic and/or non-synthetic substances such as THC for any reason for preemployment screening purposes, while on duty, subject to duty, on Metra property, or in Metra work equipment and vehicles.

Metra is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. It is our policy to fill vacant positions with qualified candidates without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, gender identity, disability, or any protected categories, assuming an individual can perform the essential functions of the job with or without accommodation.