Workers' Compensation Lead

University of California, Irvine•Irvine, CA

About The Position

The Workers' Compensation (WC) Lead serves as a dedicated resource within Human Resources, responsible for the oversight and strategic management of the university's workers' compensation program. This position plays a critical role in transforming UC Irvine's approach to workers' compensation from a reactive to a proactive model — streamlining claim processes, reducing loss frequency and severity, and implementing data-driven risk mitigation strategies across all campus departments. The WC Lead applies knowledge of California workers' compensation law, claims management practices, and occupational health principles to independently manage the full lifecycle of workers' compensation claims from first report of injury through resolution. The incumbent serves as a knowledgeable and reliable resource for injured employees, supervisors, and departmental administrators — providing consultation, guidance, and direct assistance to ensure timely access to care and consistent application of claim procedures across all campus units. A key function of this role is coordinating closely with UC Irvine's third-party workers' compensation claims administrator to facilitate effective communication, monitor claim activity, and ensure that claim handling aligns with university policies, California regulatory requirements, and program goals. Beyond day-to-day claims management and oversight, this position is instrumental in advancing a broader strategic shift within UC Irvine's workers' compensation program — moving from a reactive, case-by-case approach toward a proactive, data-informed model of risk management and loss prevention. The Workers' Compensation Lead analyzes claims data to identify trends and risk factors, develops and delivers training programs to improve departmental compliance and reporting practices, and builds cross-functional partnerships with other units to address workplace injury risks before they result in lost time and increased costs. Applies knowledge of workers’ compensation and job protected leaves to manage processes for employees. Provides consultation, assistance and manages cases. Coordinates with workers' compensation, disability management, benefits, and labor and employee relations.

Requirements

Thorough knowledge of FMLA, CFRA, PFL, PDL, Workers Comp, Military Leave, ERISA, HIPAA and applicable state and federal laws.
Working knowledge of rules and regulations affecting employee benefit programs.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and safeguard information.
Strong oral and written communication skills. Ability to communicate effectively and with confidence.
Skill and sensitivity in dealing with others. Ability to handle difficult and complicated issues with professionalism and sound judgement.
Strong organizational and time management skills.
Ability to build relationships, collaborate and problem solve across all levels of the organization.
Critical thinking and problem solving skills.
Ability to provide high level of service and adapt to shifting priorities.
Knowledge of computer databases and Windows software.
Ability to effectively utilize a case management software.
Knowledge of CA workers compensation, and disability insurance programs; such as experience in the administration and counseling of income replacement insurance plans.
Ability to motivate and develop team members.
Bachelor's degree in related area and / or equivalent experience / training
Minimum six years of progressive benefits, worker’s compensation, leave, and/or like experiences.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of state laws pertaining to workers’ compensation.
Knowledge of UCI organization, UC policies, procedures, and structure.
Knowledge of UCI payroll personnel system and procedures.
Knowledge of and application of UC’s Insurance regulations and medical plans.
Knowledge of UC or UCI collective bargaining agreements.
PHR/SPHR, SHRM/SHRM-CP, World at Work or like credential.
Professional administrative experience in higher education, healthcare, and/or large complex organization strongly preferred.
Training with an emphasis in worker’s compensation preferred.