Human Resources Specialist (Employee Benefits / Workers Compensation)

The HR Specialist (Employee Benefits / Workers Compensation) plays a pivotal role in managing and reducing workers' compensation for the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), an agency responsible for ensuring the safety of meat, poultry, and processed eggs. You will provide technical expertise, case management, and advisory services to support the effectiveness of the FSIS Workers' Compensation Program in the Worklife Services Branch of the Human Resources Business Systems Division.

Develop and maintain an effective Workers' Compensation Program integrated with agency-wide initiatives, ensuring compliance with federal and agency policies.

Research, interpret, and apply regulatory guidance and policies related to workers’ compensation, and disseminate new or revised procedures and information to staff and management.

Provide technical advice and assistance to HR staff, supervisors, and managers on complex or controversial workers’ compensation claims and inquiries.

Coordinate and conduct investigations of employee injuries, establish factual records, and prepare documentation for claims processing and challenges.

Present relevant information and evidence to the Department of Labor (DOL) for the challenge of claims, including potential fraud or invalid claims.

Analyze compensation cases and periodic rolls to identify employees with a reasonable probability of returning to work, and coordinate rehabilitation or return-to-work efforts.

Work closely with HR specialists and management to identify or modify positions and provide reasonable accommodations for employees with medical restrictions.

Audit and analyze quarterly and annual workers’ compensation costs and charge-back billings, identify errors, and recommend corrective actions to ensure cost accuracy.

Promote and adhere to Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and civil rights policies in all communications and program activities.

Deliver training, workshops, and informational sessions to employees and managers on workers’ compensation policies, procedures, and emerging developments.