LEAVE ASSOCIATE I

Basic Function:

Administers the leave program for the district by engaging with employees who need leave requests; securing/reviewing documentation supporting leave requests; determining whether leave requests should be approved based on documentation; entering leave data, processing payroll information and coordinating the entry of leave data with third-party FMLA leave administrator (which includes running various reports and following complex processes to replace non-FMLA absences with FMLA absences); facilitating payroll adjustments as needed.

The Office of Human Resources is accepting applications for the following position through Monday, August 04, 2025. A current resume must be attached to the completed application. Additionally, all applicants, including employees, must submit transcripts confirming Degrees (unofficial transcripts can be submitted, however, official transcripts will be required upon hire). If you are unable to electronically attach these documents, you must notify human resources that you are sending hard copies. Caution: When attaching documents to the application, be sure the documents are legible. If the documents cannot be read, your application may be disqualified from consideration. If you are selected for the next stage of the interview process, you will be contacted via email to submit three electronic professional references. Identified references will receive an online reference check to complete. No applications or application materials will be accepted after the deadline date. Appointment is subject to a criminal background check, a drug/alcohol test, and credential verification. For further information or questions, please call Lynise Thompson - Office of Human Resources at (414) 475-8224 or email at thompsl@milwaukee.k12.wi.us.

Job Requirements:

Education Requirements:

• Position requires a bachelor's degree in Human Resources Administration or a related field, or a paralegal certification.
• Knowledge of the laws and regulations surrounding FMLA and other leaves of absence categories is desired.

Experience Requirements:

• Three years of previous experience in a high-volume, deadline-driven environment is required.
• Previous experience with PeopleSoft or other Human Resources Management System software is desired.
• A combination of education and experience may be used

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Excellent organizational, oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills are essential

The ability to work with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community and to provide appropriate information on procedures to affected people is necessary.

Must be able to meet multiple deadlines with tight time constraints.

Knowledge of local, state, and federal leave laws is desired.

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Runs various reports and follows complex processes to upload employee data to the third-party FMLA administrator (Sedgwick) on a bi-weekly basis.
• Run various reports to replace all non-FMLA absences entered by MPS timekeepers with FMLA absences approved by Sedgwick, while simultaneously entering the employee's chosen pay type (unpaid, sick leave, vacation, etc.).
• Make absence corrections related to leave requests as needed and coordinate paycheck adjustments with the payroll office.
• Places employees on and off the payroll system based on available sick leave, requests for unpaid leave, and return-to-work events. Requires coordination with the payroll office.
• Place employees out of assignment based on the duration of absences.
• Maintains leave documentation in an accessible and confidential location, responds to employees and managers inquiries regarding leave benefits.
• Works closely with administration to manage the leave process.
• Understands and assists employees out on leave to ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local laws and helps to ensure a successful return to work. Works proactively with the supervisor/manager of employees on leave and verifies their return to work.
• Responds to employee questions or concerns regarding leave issues. Research questions or refer to other resources for a response.
• Investigates and researches leave policy issues and problems and responds with appropriate action in accordance with past practice, state, and federal laws.
• Identifies and advises department management of trends, problems, and issues as well as recommended course of action; informs management of new procedures and ideas for continuous process improvement.
• Ensure that the leave policy is being applied consistently and properly by managers and supervisors and provide proactive training and guidance.
• Actively supports the MPS Strategic Plan.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

The salary range is $60,019.33 - $86,156.01 (12 months/260 days)

The Milwaukee Public Schools does not discriminate in its programs, activities, facilities, employment, or educational opportunities on the basis of a person's sex, race, age, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, creed, pregnancy, marital or parental status, sexual orientation, or disability. Reasonable accommodations requested by qualified individuals with disabilities will be made in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, as amended by the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA) of 2008.

In accordance with Wisconsin Statutes, every applicant for a position with Milwaukee Public Schools will be subject to the open records law. Any applicant not wishing to have his/her identity released, must submit a written statement to that effect to the Office of Human Resources. The identities of all "final candidates" may be released. Milwaukee Public Schools reserves the right to interview the best qualified candidates.