Manager of Disability Services and Workplace Accommodations

Manager of Disability Services and Workplace Accommodations

Job Description:
The Manager of Disability Services and Workplace Accommodations serves as the university's expert and primary owner of all employee leave and accommodation programs. This role is responsible for stewarding a compliant, compassionate, and well-coordinated leave experience that balances the needs of employees with the operational priorities of the university. With a strong foundation in employment law and best practices, the Manager administers leave programs including FMLA, disability, and parental leave. Also, oversees the university's interactive process for workplace accommodations, ensuring timely, individualized, and well-coordinated support for employees and supervisors.

Washington and Lee University actively promotes a dynamic and welcoming environment that allows students and employees of multiple backgrounds and perspectives to learn, work, and thrive together. Successful candidates will contribute to that environment and exhibit potential for excellence in their areas of expertise.

Learn more about what makes Washington and Lee University a great place to work and live at jobs.wlu.edu.

Essential Functions:

• Administers all university leave programs including FMLA, disability, and parental leave, while ensuring accuracy and consistency.
• Maintains full compliance with federal and state laws (including FMLA, PWFA, PUMP Act, and Virginia Human Rights Act), keeping documentation audit-ready and processes aligned with regulatory requirements.
• Monitors legislative changes and recommends policy or process updates to sustain compliance and improve employee experience.
• Serves as the primary point of contact for employees needing leave or accommodations, providing clear, empathetic, and confidential guidance.
• Manages end-to-end leave cases, including intake, documentation, tracking, coordination with managers, and interaction with third-party administrators.
• Leads the interactive accommodation process, assessing needs, identifying reasonable accommodations, and ensuring effective implementation and follow-up.
• Coordinates with employees, managers, and healthcare providers to develop appropriate plans for the employee's return from leave. Oversees related accommodation requests upon return from leave, as appropriate.
• Oversees parental leave and pregnancy-related support, including lactation accommodations. Maintains nursing parent rooms on campus and ensures access to supplies such as refrigerators, blinds, and signage.
• Develops and delivers training and resources for managers and employees on leave, accommodations, and related policies.
• Contributes to team projects and support departmental priorities in a collaborative environment.
• Other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in a related field, with advanced degree or J.D. preferred. 3-5 years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience providing a similar skillset.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex, sensitive situations with sound judgment, empathy, and discretion.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to own multiple priorities and follow through with accuracy and accountability.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills (written and verbal).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel; experience with HRIS systems (Workday preferred).
• Working knowledge of HR practices; experience with leave management and employment law strongly preferred.

Application Instructions

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Required materials include:

• Cover letter
• Resume
• Names and contact information for three professional references

Application instructions for internal and external candidates can be found at https://www.wlu.edu/employment-opportunities/jobs-at-w-l.

Campus Safety and Welfare Responsibilities:

• This position is designated as a Campus Security Authority (CSA) in accordance with the Clery Act. This position is required to report Clery qualifying crimes to the Department of Public Safety and complete annual training about your reporting responsibilities under the law.

Position Type:
Exempt, Full Time, Benefit Eligible

Minimum Pay:
$76,848.00 - Pay Commensurate with Experience

Washington and Lee is an Equal Opportunity Employer seeking candidates committed to high standards of scholarship, performance, professionalism, and to a welcoming campus community. Job description requirements are representative, but not all-inclusive of the knowledge, skill, and abilities needed to successfully perform this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.