Human Resource Specialist, Leave of Absence (LOA) & Compliance

Human Resource Specialist, Leave Of Absence (LOA) & ComplianceNow Hiring: HR Specialist, Leave of Absence (LOA) & Compliance Goodwill Central Coast, Serving Santa Cruz, Monterey & San Luis Obispo Counties Goodwill Central Coast (GCC) is looking for a self-starter, a creative problem-solver, and an out-of-the-box thinker to join our Human Resources team as an HR Specialist, LOA & Compliance. If you are passionate about helping people, thrive in a fast-paced HR environment, and want a career where your work makes a meaningful impact in the community, we'd love to meet you. Spanish speaking candidates are strongly preferred to support our diverse workforce and ensure equitable access to HR services. Why Work for Goodwill Central Coast? At GCC, every position, back office and frontline supports our mission: "To provide employment, training, and support services for people with barriers to employment, helping them become self-sufficient and empowered." As part of HR, you directly contribute to this mission by supporting employees during some of the most important moments in their lives: welcoming a new child, recovering from injury, navigating medical needs, and safely returning to work. Position Summary The HR Specialist, LOA & Compliance manages employee leave programs and ensures compliance with federal and California state regulations, including FMLA, CFRA, PDL, ADA, workers' compensation, and company policies. This role also supports compliance functions such as UI claims, EDD processing, benefit changes, direct deposit updates, employee loans, and personnel action review. Key Responsibilities Leave of Absence Administration Manage the full cycle of FMLA, CFRA, PDL, Workers Compensation, medical leave, and ADA accommodation requests Communicate clearly with employees and managers regarding leave expectations Track leave usage and ensure timely return-to-work processes Maintain confidentiality of all medical and protected information Compliance & HR Operations Process UI claims and attend hearings Process EDD claims and conduct monthly benefit audits Review and approve direct deposit changes Process employee referral bonuses and loan eligibility Approve PAFs for promotions and demotions Maintain accurate personnel records and employee directories What We're Looking For A self-motivated, highly organized HR professional capable of working independently A creative thinker who can identify solutions, improve workflows, and support continuous HR improvement Strong interpersonal and communication skills Spanish speaker strongly preferred Paycom experience preferred Experience in LOA administration, California labor law, and HR compliance Experience with Microsoft Office Suite Bachelor's degree in business, HR, or related field preferred Ability to maintain confidentiality and build trust at all levels of the organization Commitment to GCC's mission, values, and a supportive, inclusive culture. What You'll Love About GCC Mission-driven work that supports individuals, families, and local communities Collaborative and supportive HR team Opportunities for growth, training, and development Excellent benefits employer sponsored medical, dental, vision, retirement with 4% employer contribution, employee wellness programs, 7 paid Holidays, sick pay and vacation. Making a real difference, every day Qualifications Bachelor's degree in a relevant field or equivalent experience preferred 3 years progressively responsible experience in a human resources department or similar function, including experience LOA, FMLA, CFRA, PDL, CA Law, and in records administration, or equivalent preferred Bilingual, Spanish-speaking preferred Working knowledge of multiple human resources disciplines, including compensation, benefits, leaves of absence, workers' compensation, and HRIS (Paycom) Knowledgeable of state and federal employment laws, including applicable wage and hour, leave entitlement, and employment legal requirements. Experience within a large, complex organization is preferred Proficient in MS Applications, HRIS Systems, Paycom Willingness to work on-site and to commute to different locations if needed