Description

Bend-La Pine Schools

Bend, Oregon 97703

Bend-La Pine Schools is committed to the principle of equity. Equity supersedes the notion of equality, where all are treated the same. Pursuing equity requires the removal of barriers and the promotion of inclusive practices so that all students fully benefit. The principle of equity will inform all BLS policies, regulations, programs, operations, practices, and resource allocations.

Studies have shown that some individuals (women and people of color, for example) are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they meet every single qualification in a job description. Our goal is to find the best candidate for the position, and we acknowledge that that candidate may be an individual from a less traditional background. We encourage you to apply, even if you don't believe you meet every one of our qualifications described. If you are unsure whether you meet the qualifications of a position, or how this would be determined, please feel free to contact Human Resources to discuss your application.

Position Title: HR Leaves & Benefits Process Coordinator

Department: Human Resources

Reports To: Director of Human Resources – Workforce Relations

JOB DEFINITION:

The HR Leaves & Benefits Process Coordinator serves as the district’s lead technical expert for leave and benefits operations, ensuring compliance, accuracy, and operational efficiency in both processing and the underlying data in the leave and benefits system. Under minimal supervision, this role leads, instructs and reviews the work of HR staff to ensure that leave and benefit processes are efficient, and administered in accordance with district procedures, collective bargaining agreements, and applicable federal and state laws and regulations. This position does not directly manage people but serves as the primary resource for HR staff by providing subject matter expertise, training, guidance, interpreting complex leave and benefits requirements, and making day-to-day operational decisions to move department work forward. These tasks are performed with considerable reliance upon the use of independent judgment. Decisions are generally based on readily available materials, experience, and foundational knowledge of leave and benefit rules, laws, regulations and best practices.

The HR Leaves & Benefits Process Coordinator will also perform highly complex work in support of HR operations in the areas of employee leaves and benefits. Tasks may include activities such as reconciling staff benefit enrollments, reconciling eligibility, calculating data, verifying accuracy, performing audits and reviewing source documents. The position maintains a comprehensive understanding of employee leave categories and processes, district-sponsored insurance programs, eligibility, requirements, plan

provisions, and applicable benefit regulations to support district staff members.

The HR Leaves & Benefits Process Coordinator serves as a liaison for the leaves and benefits team members, proactively collaborating with staff throughout the district as a department representative. Strong interpersonal skills will be required to improve the flow of information between the HR team, district operational partners and plan administrators outside of the HR department.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

Oversees leave and benefit processing accuracy and compliance with federal and state laws and regulations, district policies and procedures, as well as employee contracts, to ensure all leave and benefit operations align with legal and organizational standards.
Serves as the primary technical resource for leave and benefit operations, providing guidance and process oversight to HR staff supporting leaves and benefits to enhance accuracy, efficiency, and compliance.
Interprets and applies leave and benefit laws, and contract agreements to ensure compliance.
Coordinates and supports employee benefits administration, including Oregon Educators Benefit Board (OEBB) enrollment, eligibility determinations, qualifying life events, open enrollment, benefits communications, vendor coordination, and insurance committee support.
Reviews, updates, and maintains all leave and benefit procedures, and documentation to ensure compliance, clarity and accuracy.
Conducts audits and troubleshooting to maintain data integrity.
Assists in the development and implementation of leave and benefit system best practices and user training.
Conducts training sessions for processes and system usage.
Reviews data for accuracy, identifying errors and ensuring proper resolution.
Prepares and reviews benefit and leave reports for staffing, audits, budgeting, and financial planning.
Evaluates leave and benefit processes to identify inefficiencies, analyzes root causes, and recommends strategic improvements to enhance accuracy, efficiency, and compliance.
Collaborates with HR teams, finance, risk, and other departments to align processes with district operations and initiatives.
Provides return to work consultation for HR staff supporting leaves.
Performs related duties as assigned.

The HR Leaves & Benefits Process Coordinator primarily works in an office setting, requiring extended periods of sitting, computer use, and detailed focus on tasks. Frequent interaction with employees, vendors, third party plan administrators, and other stakeholders necessitates strong human relations and communication skills to handle confidential and complex inquiries effectively and professionally.

This role involves managing heavy workloads, inflexible deadlines, and occasional conflicting priorities, requiring the ability to exercise sound judgment and maintain a pleasant, professional demeanor, even in high-pressure situations. This role may also need to lift or move materials, equipment, or boxes weighing up to 30 pounds.

The position requires adaptability to changing priorities, attention to detail, and a commitment to accuracy in maintaining sensitive medical and employee records. Collaborative teamwork and problem-solving are key to ensuring success in a dynamic and deadline-driven environment. Work follows assigned business hours and may include occasional deadlines requiring flexibility.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

Knowledge:

Extensive understanding of leave and benefit processes, laws, and principles.
Strong grasp of labor contracts, employee classifications, and benefits administration.
Compliance with federal and state regulations, including, FMLA, OFLA, and PLO.
Proficiency in Excel and HRIS/payroll systems.

Skills & Abilities:

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to manage complex leave and benefit scenarios.
Ability to train and support HR staff in understanding leave/benefit processes.
Exceptional communication skills to explain benefit/leave concepts to employees and stakeholders.
Ability to manage multiple priorities, work under pressure, and meet deadlines.
High attention to detail and accuracy in handling confidential information.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Minimum:

Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in benefits/leaves.

Preferences:

Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, or a related field.
Experience in a public sector, school district, or government human resources environment.

Expectations of Professional Conduct

Employees of Bend-La Pine Schools are expected to adhere to all Bend-La Pine Schools policies and regulations, ensuring compliance with established procedures and expectations. They are to prioritize the well-being of students, aligning their conduct with the core values of public education and the mission, vision, and goals of Bend-La Pine Schools. This entails maintaining consistent and punctual attendance while adhering to site and/or district protocols for reporting absences.

Professionalism extends to personal presentation, with employees expected to maintain attire and grooming appropriate to their roles. While carrying out everyday tasks independently, it's essential to maintain professionalism in how you communicate, both verbally and nonverbally, with students, parents/guardians, the public, and colleagues. This includes valuing and respecting cultural and background differences. Employees of Bend-La Pine Schools are entrusted with fostering a respectful working and learning environment, upholding confidentiality regarding student, staff, and district information at all times.

The statements herein reflect the general nature and level of work expected in this position and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, or qualifications.

Employees may be assigned additional duties as needed to support district operations, provide coverage, and ensure the effective functioning of the organization. This may include location changes of assignment to meet developing district needs.

Requirements

Please Provide:

Resume

Cover Letter

1 Letter of Recommendation

Note to Current Employees: The system will not allow you to directly upload supporting materials, so please email supporting documents to [email protected]