Senior Benefits Specialist - LOA (Hybrid)

Company Description

At Lakeshore, we create innovative learning materials and world-class guest experiences for teachers, parents and children. Since 1954, we’ve grown into a global community—with a thriving e-commerce business, multiple catalogs, 60+ retail stores, a peerless national sales force, plus international offices that support our preeminent supply chain division. But today we’re working better, smarter and faster than ever—and setting our sights even higher. We’re building an infrastructure designed for scalability, embracing data-driven decision-making and using technology to improve efficiency and ensure the best tools for the best work. Most importantly, we continue to invest in a diverse team of inquisitive top talent who fuel each other’s passions and curiosity, take risks, try new things, and believe that every new day brings opportunities for growth.

Job Description

We are currently seeking a Senior Benefits Specialist - LOA to join our team. In this key role within the Employee Experience department, you will focus on managing leaves of absence (LOA) and ensuring compliance with ADA regulations. This national role, based out of HQ, requires a highly organized and detail-oriented professional with extensive experience in LOA administration and strategic benefits management. The Senior Benefits Specialist (LOA) will collaborate closely with the Senior Benefits Manager to innovate and improve our LOA processes and ensure a positive employee experience. Applicants should have in-depth knowledge of FMLA, ADA and state-specific leave laws. The ideal candidate also possesses a strategic mindset with the ability to drive improvements and manage change effectively. 

A day on the job looks like this: 

• ADA Process Management: Manage the full ADA process, including evaluating accommodation requests, engaging in the interactive process and implementing reasonable accommodations; serve as the primary point of contact for employees, managers and external partners on ADA matters; ensure compliance with all ADA regulations and company policies; collaborate with the team to address complex ADA cases and escalations 
• Leave of Absence Administration: Provide strategic oversight of the LOA process, including FMLA, state-specific leaves and company-sponsored leaves; ensure accurate and timely administration of leave requests, approvals and return-to-work processes; collaborate with the team to address complex leave cases and escalations 
• Policy Development and Compliance: Develop and update policies and procedures related to leaves of absence and ADA accommodations; monitor changes in federal, state and local laws to ensure company compliance and implement necessary policy updates; conduct regular audits of LOA and ADA processes to ensure adherence to regulations and best practices 
• Data Analysis and Reporting: Maintain accurate records of leave and accommodation cases in all tracking systems; generate and analyze reports related to LOA and ADA activities to identify trends, measure program effectiveness and support strategic decision-making; provide insights and recommendations to leadership based on data analysis 
• Provide Administrative and Operational Support: Provide expert guidance and support to employees and managers regarding leave and accommodation policies and procedures; conduct training sessions for managers and employees on LOA and ADA processes and responsibilities; serve as a backup and provide support to the team as needed 

Qualifications

Got the skills and experience? Here’s what we’re looking for: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration or related field. Experience may substitute for education, if applicable 
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in benefits/LOA administration or a related field, with at least 1 year in a senior or supervisory role 
• Certification in PHR, SPHR, CLMS, SHRM-CP preferred 
• Bilingual—English & Spanish preferred 
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills 
• Proven leadership and team management abilities 
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office suite and HRIS/benefits administration software 
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills 
• High attention to detail and ability to handle sensitive information with discretion 

Additional Information

And here’s our end of the bargain! 

• Hourly: $30-$40 with an annual bonus of up to 10%
• Paid leave for new parents to support work/life balance and family bonding
• Excellent medical/dental and vision coverage—EPO, PPO and HSA
• 401(k) retirement plan with company contribution (because you will retire someday)