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Employee Relations & Leave Administration Specialist, Human Resources
Pocatello - Main Part-time hybrid remote work (up to 8 days per month)
Institution Information
Idaho State University, established in 1901, is a Carnegie-classified doctoral research and teaching institution, with a culture built on trust, compassion, stability, and hope. ISU serves over 12,000 students in Pocatello, Meridian, Twin Falls, and Idaho Falls. Students and faculty at ISU are leading the way in cutting-edge research and innovative solutions. We are proud to offer exceptional academics nestled in the grand, natural beauty of the West. We invite you to apply to be a part of our University community!
Job Description
The Employee Relations & Leave Administration Specialist provides operational support for the Employee Relations function, with primary responsibility for the independent administration of FMLA and assigned leave programs. This role manages leave cases from inquiry to closure, ensuring accurate tracking and timely communication with employees, supervisors, and key university partners (Payroll, Benefits, ADA, Workers' Compensation). Additionally, this role supports Employee Relations by handling concern intake, case management, and administrative coordination, escalating high-risk matters to leadership as needed.
This position is not eligible for new visa sponsorship at this time. Candidates who already hold valid U.S. work authorization may be considered.
Key Responsibilities
FMLA and Leave Administration - 65%
- Case Ownership: Serve as the primary point of contact for FMLA, managing all stages of the leave process, from initial intake and eligibility determination to return-to-work and case closure.
- Documentation & Compliance: Manage all notices, medical certifications, and leave tracking. Proactively identify documentation deficiencies, monitor intermittent/reduced-schedule usage, and ensure accurate record-keeping.
- Communication & Guidance: Educate employees and supervisors on FMLA policies, roles, and responsibilities. Maintain consistent communication regarding leave status, return-to-work requirements, and employee protections.
- Process Coordination: Integrate FMLA with other University programs, including ADA accommodations, workers' compensation, paid leave, and the Shared Leave Donation Program. Ensure accurate payroll processing and facilitate timely return-to-work coordination.
- Training & Improvement: Serve as a subject matter expert. Develop job aids, deliver training, and recommend process improvements to ensure consistent policy application.
Employee Relations Support - 25%
- Concern Intake: Act as an initial point of contact for employee/supervisor workplace concerns. Conduct objective preliminary intake and route to appropriate staff or leadership. Escalate high-risk matters (e.g., discrimination, harassment, safety concerns) immediately.
- Administrative Support: Coordinate meetings, trainings, and interviews. Prepare and format letters, memoranda, and investigative materials. Maintain secure, confidential records and track case-related deadlines.
General HR Support - 10%
- Maintain accurate HR records, assist with departmental reporting, and contribute to HR projects, training programs, and policy implementation.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a related field (in lieu of a Bachelor's Degree, a minimum of six years combined education, training, and experience may be considered).
- At least two (2) years of professional experience in human resources, employee relations, compliance, leave or benefits administration, or a related field, including handling confidential, sensitive, medical, personnel, or employment-related information.
- Strong organizational and problem-solving skills; ability to manage multiple deadlines with high accuracy and maintain confidentiality.
- Proven ability to interpret/apply policies and exercise sound judgment in escalating sensitive or complex matters.
- Excellent communication and customer service skills.
Preferred Qualifications
- Direct experience administering FMLA, coordinating with ADA/workers' compensation, and utilizing HR information/case-management systems.
- Experience in workplace investigations or supporting Employee Relations functions.
- Experience in higher education or public-sector HR environments.
Additional Information
You must submit your CV/resume, cover letter, and list of three (3) professional references, including current contact information. This position will remain open until it is filled; however, priority consideration will be given to applications received on or before October 30, 2026. Salary will be between $50,000 and $55,000 per year, commensurate with education and experience. Benefits include comprehensive health, dental, and vision; life insurance; disability plan; employee assistance program (EAP); excellent retirement options and company contribution; and generous paid time off/sick leave accrual. All offers of employment are conditional pending the successful completion of a background investigation, provided by HireRight.
Note: Thank you for your interest in positions at Idaho State University. Once you have applied, the most updated information on the status of your application can be found by logging into your profile and reviewing your status. For answers to additional questions, please review our frequently asked questions.
Posting Number: req2829
Type: Working 12 months per year
Position: Non-classified Staff
Division: OPERATIONS
Idaho State University is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer, including Veterans and individuals with disabilities.
The State of Idaho is committed to access and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities, auxiliary aids and services are available upon request. If you require an accommodation at any step in our recruitment process, you are encouraged to contact [contact details available in the full listing] (TTY/TTD: 711), or email [contact details available in the full listing].
Preference may be given to veterans who qualify under state and federal laws and regulations.
To apply, visit https://isu.csod.com/ux/ats/careersite/5/home/requisition/2829?c=isu
