HR Specialist

Status: Non-exempt, Full-Time, Hourly | Payrate: $25.00/hour | Schedule: Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Reports to: Human Resources Supervisor, Workers’ Compensation 

Department: Human Resources  

Region: Orange County 

Job Summary: The HR Workers’ Compensation and Risk Specialist will be responsible for overseeing and managing the workers’ compensation program and implementing risk management strategies to minimize workplace accidents, injuries, and financial losses. You will work closely with the HR Supervisor, Workers’ Compensation and HR Director to ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations, facilitate effective claims management, and promote a safe and healthy work environment. The ideal candidate will possess a strong knowledge of workers’ compensation laws, risk assessment, and occupational safety. This position requires some travel to the various regions in which Mercy House operates. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: 

Workers’ Compensation Administration 

• Administer and manage the worker's compensation program, including coordinating with insurance carriers, monitoring claims, and ensuring timely and accurate documentation 

• Serve as the primary point of contact for employees, managers, and external stakeholders regarding workers' compensation claims and related inquiries 

• Collaborate with insurance brokers and carriers to evaluate coverage, negotiate premiums, and optimize workers’ compensation program effectiveness 

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records and documentation related to workers’ compensation claims, including tracking costs and preparing reports for management and regulatory agencies 

Risk Management and Safety Compliance 

• Investigate workplace accidents, injuries, and near-misses to determine root causes and develop recommendations for corrective actions and risk mitigation 

• Collaborate with HR and safety teams to develop and implement safety policies, procedures, and training programs that align with legal requirements and best practices 

• Conduct regular risk assessments to identify potential hazards and develop strategies to eliminate or mitigate risks 

• Stay up-to-date with local, state, and federal regulations related to workers’ compensation, occupational safety, and risk management to ensure compliance 

• Analyze workers’ compensation data, trends, and metrics to identify areas for improvement and provide actionable recommendations to reduce claim costs and prevent future incidents 

• Develop and deliver training programs to educate employees and managers on workers’ compensation policies, procedures, and accident prevention 

Miscellaneous 

• Attend staff meetings and quarterly trainings 

• Enhance job performance by applying up-to-date professional and technical knowledge gained by attending seminars and conferences and reviewing professional publications 

• Take initiative; demonstrate strong decision-making and organizational skills 

• Initiate best practices; develop efficiency improvements 

• Participate in special projects and other duties as assigned by your supervisor 

Education and Experience 

• Bachelor's degree in business administration, risk management, occupational health and safety, or a related field 

• 3-5 years of experience in workers’ compensation, risk management, or a related field preferred

• In-depth knowledge of workers’ compensation laws, regulations, and best practices 

• Familiarity with occupational safety and health regulations (OSHA) and their application in the workplace 

General 

• Reliable transportation required 

• Strong analytical skills to assess risks, identify trends, and develop data-driven solutions 

• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to effectively communicate complex information to diverse audiences 

• Ability to build and maintain collaborative relationships with internal stakeholders, insurance carriers, legal counsel, and regulatory authorities 

• Proficiency in using computer software and databases for claims management and reporting 

• Certified Workers’ Compensation Professional (CWCP) or related certifications are preferred but not required 

• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously 

• Ability to work independently, take initiative, and make informed decisions 

Physical Requirements 

• Answer and respond to phone queries

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer

• Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds