Leave and Accommodations Specialist / Manager

The Leave and Accommodations Specialist / Manager serves as the university’s 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 knowledge in employment law and best practices, the Specialist/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. 2–3 years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience providing a similar skillset.

• Demonstrated ability to manage 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.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel; willingness to learn HRIS systems (Workday).

• Working knowledge of HR practices.

Candidates with the below preferred qualifications may be considered for the Manager of Leave and Accommodations title with the corresponding compensation range.

• Advanced degree or J.D. preferred. 3–5 years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience providing a similar skillset.

• Experience with HRIS systems (Workday).

• Employment law expertise.

• Demonstrated ability to independently manage complex leave and accommodation cases.

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