Human Resource Leave and Benefits Specialist

GENERAL SUMMARY

Supports and assists with a variety of Human Resources functions including benefits, leaves and HRIS. Responsible for receiving and collecting confidential and sensitive medical information, reporting, and benefit compliance. Responsible for critical functions of the HR Department.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

The above position is illustrative of the tasks and responsibilities. It is not meant to be all –inclusive of every task or responsibility. The description does not constitute an employment agreement between the Springfield Public Schools and the employee and is subject to change by the Springfield Public Schools as the needs and requirements of the job change.

• Assists the Information and Benefits manager in matters involving un-employment, Worker’s Compensation, and all LOAs for all SPS employees.
• Works closely with the third party agency on unemployment claims and provides detailed information and reports as needed.
• Coordinates unemployment hearings and gathers necessary documents for each hearing.
• Provides constant communication with the schools regarding accident reports, absences due to work related injury, and medical approvals for returning to work.
• Processes all accident reports, leave requests, unemployment claims and is responsible for follow-up communication.
• Assists the Information and Benefits Manager with the compliance of medical leaves of absence for all SPS staff and is responsible for short and long term medical leave correspondences.
• Provides HR Administrators with all necessary documentation for leave review and approval.
• Responsible for entering and maintaining data in Munis, Kronos, and all other HRIS systems
• Assists and supports in processing sick bank requests and responses
• Performs work of a confidential nature and ensure that all communications are processed in the appropriate manner.
• Maintains confidential personnel files.
• Greets all visitors courteously, determine their needs, and direct them appropriately.
• Operates fax and copy machines to duplicate various forms, bulletins, notices, and agendas as required
• Performs other duties as directed by the Chief of Human Resources or other Human Resources Administrative Staff.
• Assists with human resource departmental functions.
• Performs related duties of a similar nature and level as assigned.

MINIMUM JOB QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience

• Requires at least 1-2 years of experience in the field
• Relevant associates degree required or educational requirement may be substituted for at least 3 years of experience in relevant field

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, and ABILITIES

• Knowledge of salary schedules and contracts for all groups. High level thinking and organizational skills
• Knowledge of School Committee policies related to Human Resources functions.
• Knowledge of the legal requirements related to Human Resources related functions.
• Knowledge of district benefits and the ability to convey them to the candidates in a clear understanding manner
• Ability to develop and write reports and correspondence
• Ability to handle common inquiries or complaints
• Ability to respond to questions from staff and visitors
• Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions
• Ability to use (or learn to use) computer software and systems applicable to the position
• Ability to follow oral and written instructions and procedures
• Ability to collect, organize, and interpret data and prepare accurate records
• Ability to maintain well-organized materials, files, systems and tools
• Ability to adapt to changes in work situations and priorities
• Ability to reason/analyze; use logic to identify and resolve problems
• Ability to evaluate, organize, and summarize data and information
• Ability to establish and maintain constructive and cooperative interpersonal relationships with staff, peers, supervisors, or managers in the work unit and other departments, as well as with staff of outside entities and other individuals, as applicable to the essential duties and responsibilities

CORE KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Skill in utilizing interpersonal skills to relate and interact with a diverse population
• Skill in detail oriented planning and able to set priorities, objectives, and meet deadlines
• Ability to provide positive and effective customer service
• Ability to adapt to and accommodate new methods and procedures
• Ability to work independently or as a member of a team
• Ability to apply listening skills, work under pressure, address conflict and solve problems
• Ability to read, analyze and interpret standard, policies, procedures and regulations
• Ability to effectively present information using attention to detail and accuracy
• Ability to exercise good judgment
• Ability to operate standard office equipment, such as a computer keyboard, monitor, copies, scanners, and telephone
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly having to move objects.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT

This position requires employee be in an office or similar indoor environment.

The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. The list is not all-inclusive and may be supplemented as necessary. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

"If you BELIEVE, we have a place for YOU on our team! Come work for us!"

About our District

Springfield Public Schools is a cultural gem in Western Massachusetts that is committed to providing a learning environment that opens the doors of infinite possibilities to our amazing students and staff. We strive to equip each of our approximately 24,000 students with learning experiences that enhance their knowledge and critical thinking skills. We are the 3rd largest district in Massachusetts. Our district has over 44 languages spoken and over 60 countries represented by both students and staff. We foster a positive and professional environment in our schools and worksites where people feel valued, respected, supported, seen and heard. Our students and staff share their ideas and perspectives, learning from and appreciating each other. We are a district that is committed to equity and excellence.

Join a team that Empowers Educators

In addition to offering competitive salaries and benefits, we provide numerous cutting-edge professional development opportunities for all staff. We let our data shape the professional development of the district, therefore, it is relevant and actionable. We support our teaching staff with mentors such as instructional leadership specialists and effective educator coaches to work with them throughout the year in lesson planning, data analysis and management. Our district offers career advancement opportunities and is invested in “Grow our Own” and educational pipeline programs. These programs help our staff achieve a college degree or lead to certification pathways.

If there is something that you would like to know specifically about the position that you are applying for or assistance with matching your skills to a position, Carmen Molina-Figueroa will be happy to assist you at

[email protected].

The Springfield Public Schools is committed to maintaining a work environment free from discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, genetic information, pregnancy or pregnancy related conditions, ancestry, age, disability, or military service, as defined and required by state and federal laws. Additionally, we prohibit retaliation against individuals who oppose discrimination and harassment or who participate in an equal opportunity investigation. The Springfield Public Schools is committed to maintaining a learning environment free from discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, gender identity, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, disability or homelessness.

NONDISCRIMINATION EMPLOYMENT STATEMENT

The Springfield Public Schools does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, genetic information, pregnancy or pregnancy related conditions, ancestry, age, disability, veteran status, or marital status.

NOTICE OF SEX NONDISCRIMINATION

Springfield Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of sex and prohibits sex discrimination, including sexual harassment, in any education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX and its regulations, including in admission and employment.

Inquiries about Title IX may be referred to the Springfield Public Schools’ Title IX Coordinator, [email protected], the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights at or both.

The Springfield Public Schools Title IX Coordinator is Katie O’Sullivan, Senior Administrator of Human Resources, 1550 Main Street, Springfield, MA 01103, 413-787-7100 ext. 55428, [email protected].

Springfield Public School’s sex nondiscrimination policy and grievance procedures can be located on the Springfield Public Schools website,

To report information about conduct that may constitute sex discrimination or make a complaint of sex discrimination under Title IX, please refer to [email protected]