Case Manager Absence Support

Title: Case Manager Absence Support

Executive Area: Human Resources

College/School/MBU: Human Resources

Department: Human Resources

Work Location: Amherst

Schedule: Full Time

Work Arrangement: Remote

Job Summary

The Case Manager, Absence Support is responsible for administering employee leave programs and providing guidance regarding leave eligibility, benefits, and return-to-work processes. The position manages leave cases from intake through resolution and serves as a subject matter resource on federal and state leave laws, workers' compensation, and University leave programs.

The Case Manager partners with employees, supervisors, HR Business Partners, benefits staff, and third-party administrators to ensure consistent, compliant, and employee-centered leave administration.

Essential Functions

Serves as the primary resource for employees, supervisors, and HR partners regarding leave of absence programs and related processes.

Administers leave programs including FMLA, Massachusetts PFML, Workers' Compensation, parental leave, military leave, and other University leave programs.

Manages leave cases from intake through return-to-work, ensuring timely and compliant administration.

Reviews medical certifications and supporting documentation to determine eligibility and appropriate leave designation.

Communicates leave rights, responsibilities, timelines, and documentation requirements to employees and departments.

Coordinates with employees, departments, healthcare providers, and third-party administrators regarding leave administration and case management.

Supports return-to-work and fitness-for-duty processes.

Interprets and applies FMLA, PFML, Workers' Compensation laws, collective bargaining agreements, and University policies.

Maintains accurate and complete case documentation within HR systems.

Provides consultation and training to HR partners and department leaders regarding leave administration and compliance requirements.

Identifies trends, risks, and opportunities for operational improvement within absence management programs.

Maintains the highest standards of confidentiality, professionalism, and customer service.

Other Functions

Monitors regulatory developments affecting leave administration.

Assists with leave reporting, metrics, and compliance audits.

Participates in HR initiatives related to employee well-being, attendance, and workforce support.

Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree and (3) three years of progressively responsible experience in leave administration, benefits administration, human resources, workers' compensation, disability management, or a related field; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Working knowledge of FMLA, PFML, Workers' Compensation, and related leave laws.

Demonstrated ability to independently manage complex leave cases.

Strong analytical, organizational, and customer service skills.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Proficiency with Microsoft Office and HR information systems.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience administering FMLA, PFML, and Workers' Compensation programs.

Experience in higher education or a unionized environment.

Professional certification such as SHRM-CP, PHR, CLMS, or related credential.

Working Conditions

Work is performed in a standard office or indoor university environment and involves minimal physical exertion.

Work Schedule and Work Arrangement

Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM–5:00 PM, Eastern Time (ET)

This position has the opportunity for a remote work schedule, which is defined by the University as an arrangement where the employee’s work location is to work from a site other than the UMass Amherst campus. As this position is non-unit, it is subject to the terms and conditions of the University of Massachusetts Board of Trustees Non-Unit (Professional/or Classified) Employee Personnel Policy.

Salary Information

Pay Grade: PSSAP Grade 26

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Special Instructions for Applicants

Along with the application, please submit a resume. References will be checked at the finalist stage. Please be prepared to provide contact information for three (3) professional references.

This position will remain open for the time period required by any applicable collective bargaining agreement and will continue until a suitable candidate pool is identified. Interested applicants are strongly encouraged to apply early.