Leave of Absence & Human Resources Generalist

Job Description:

The Leave of Absence & Human Resources Generalist is responsible for owning, leading, and administering employee leave programs in compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, as well as company policies. This role serves as the primary point of contact for ensuring a smooth and supportive process that balances employee needs with organizational requirements and external providers services. In addition, this position will serve as HR Generalist for an assigned business unit, providing day-to-day support and guidance to employees and managers.

This position will be located in our Belle Plaine office with ability to work from home up to 2 days/week.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

Leave of Absence Generalist Duties: 80%

• Lead the administration and coordination of all leave of absence programs, including FMLA, ADA, state-specific leaves, personal leaves, parental leave, military leave, and company-sponsored leave programs .

• Drive the leave process being the main contact for all employees, managers, HR, and 3rd party vendors regarding leave eligibility, documentation, and return-to-work procedures. Educate employees regarding leave of absence requests,  benefits and resources, and support employees through the duration of the leave up through return-to-work.

• Own the tracking, review of documentation, adjudication decisions, and management of leave requests, ensuring compliance with applicable laws and internal policies.

• Maintain thorough documentation and accurate records of leave activity and related documentation in HRIS and case management systems.

• Partner with managers and HR Business Partners to address employee leave concerns and minimize workplace disruptions.

• Lead collaboration with benefits, payroll, and worker’s compensation teams to ensure accurate benefit continuation, premium payments, wage replacement, and pay processing during leaves.

• Lead internal consultations on policy interpretation and complex leave case escalations. Own the guidance and training of employees and managers on leave processes, policies, and legal obligations, driving compliance and understanding.

• Proactively track and monitor changes in leave-related legislation and drive policy and/or process updates, as needed. Own the recommendation of these updates.

• Audit and analyze reports related to leave trends, usage, and compliance to inform HR leadership decisions and proposals.

• Lead all ADA accommodation requests by facilitating the interactive process with employees and managers.

• Drive continuous process improvements to enhance employee experience, efficiency, and regulatory adherence. For policy recommendations, prepare reports for HR leadership and lead implementation of changes.

HR Generalist Duties: 20%

• Partner with assigned business units to provide guidance around progressive development, including coaching and feedback, performance issues, employee conflicts, disciplinary actions, terminations, etc.

• Partner with assigned business units to communicate and deploy the company’s Talent Management Cycle

• Facilitate and deliver HR-related training to managers and employees on key HR topics (performance management, open enrollment, policy compliance, etc.)

• Provide other HR related support as required.

Qualifications & Skills:

• Thorough knowledge of FMLA, ADA, and other federal/state leave regulations.

• Demonstrated competency of HR compliance and practices.

• Ability to tactfully advise and influence management in accordance with laws and best practices, ensuring that the decisions are in the best interests of the company and mitigate risk.

• Excellent organizational skills with strong attention to detail and accuracy.

• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

• Outstanding customer service and interpersonal skills with the ability to create effective relationships throughout the organization.

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills - written and verbal - with the ability to professionally interact with Executives and Senior leaders.

• High level of integrity and ability to keep confidential information private and secure 

• Capability of exercising independent judgment and discretion while utilizing company policies and practices to determine appropriate action.

• Proactive, self-starter with the ability to take initiative and seek solutions independently.

• Strong sense of urgency, organizational and problem-solving skills

• Ability to navigate and pull reports within HRIS (i.e. Workday) and leave case management systems.

• Flexibility to adjust in a growing, changing environment.

• Bilingual preferred.

Minimum Requirements:

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field preferred (or equivalent work experience).

Experience: 

• 4-6 years of experience administering leave of absence programs or related general HR and benefits functions

• Manufacturing experience preferred

• Previous experience supporting employees throughout U.S, specifically California, and experience supporting Canadian employee preferred

Systems: Proficient in Google Suites, Microsoft Office, Workday experience preferred

Additional Requirements: SHRM or HRCI certified, preferred.

Managerial Requirements: N/A

Physical Requirements: Office position requiring telephone and computer use. Able to lift up to 20 pounds occasionally / sparingly (office supplies, packages, samples). May need to bend, reach, walk, or stoop occasionally. Prolonged periods sitting and/or standing at a desk and working on a computer.

Travel Requirements: May travel between local Cambria locations.

Cambria offers a competitive benefits package that encompasses Health and Dental Insurance, Paid Time Off, 7 paid Holidays , 401(k) plus matching, Discretionary Profit Sharing, Flexible Spending Account; Life, Supplemental Life, and Disability Insurance; Referral Program, Tuition Reimbursement, Employee Assistance Program, Employee Discount and Professional Development Assistance.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

At Cambria, dedication to philanthropy and our people is at the heart of who we are. We strive to make a meaningful difference in the world every day by prioritizing employee well-being and fostering inclusivity and empowerment. Under the banner of CambriaCares, our philanthropic endeavors show our commitment to our people and our community to uplift kids, support education, and contribute to a sustainable future.

For additional company information, please visit www.CambriaUSA.com

An offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background verification check, subject to applicable laws and regulations. The results will be reviewed based on the individual's record, and the specific duties and requirements of the job.