Unemployment Analyst 2

JOB SUMMARY

The Unemployment Program Specialist provides essential support for the district’s unemployment program by managing day-to-day administrative processes, case documentation, and communication related to employee separations. Reporting to the Cross-Functional Team Member – Unemployment Program Lead, this role ensures that unemployment claims are processed accurately, efficiently, and in compliance with state and federal requirements. The specialist serves as a key contributor within the Employee Relations team and collaborates with HR partners, supervisors, and division leadership to maintain complete documentation and support the district’s efforts to minimize unemployment costs.

MAJOR DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

1. The Unemployment Program Specialist is responsible for handling the daily workflow of unemployment claims from the moment they are received through final submission.

2. This includes gathering and organizing separation information, verifying accuracy, maintaining case files, and ensuring all documentation aligns with legal and policy standards.

3. The specialist prepares case packets for hearings, ensures strict adherence to deadlines, and identifies cases that require escalation to the CTM–Unemployment Program Lead due to complexity, legal implications, or inconsistent documentation.

MAJOR DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES CONTINUED

4. While this role does not carry supervisory responsibilities, the specialist provides guidance to campus and departmental contacts by explaining required documentation, answering questions, and supporting consistent processes districtwide.

5. The position interacts frequently with HR partners, Employee Relations staff, division leaders, and state agencies to ensure clear communication and effective service.

EDUCATION

The ideal candidate holds an associate’s or bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business/Public Administration, or a related field, or has equivalent professional experience

WORK EXPERIENCE

One to three years of experience in HR, compliance, unemployment processing, documentation management, or employee relations is preferred.

SKILL AND/OR REQUIRED LICENSING/CERTIFICATION

Candidates must demonstrate strong organizational skills, attention to detail, the ability to manage confidential information, and excellent written and verbal communication skills. Experience in a large or complex organization is beneficial.

LEADERSHIP RESPONSIBILITIES

This is a professional-level support role responsible for case management, documentation accuracy, and day-to-day unemployment claim operations. It does not supervise staff but carries significant responsibility for ensuring compliance, accuracy, and consistent processes across the district.

WORK COMPLEXITY/INDEPENDENT JUDGMENT

The specialist’s work requires strong organization, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple cases simultaneously. The role follows established procedures but requires independent judgment to identify missing information, flag inconsistencies, and determine when further clarification or escalation is needed. The specialist must apply discretion when handling highly sensitive employee information and maintain strict confidentiality. Day-to-day work is performed independently, with guidance and oversight provided by the CTM–Unemployment Program Lead.

BUDGET AUTHORITY

The Unemployment Program Specialist does not manage a budget but contributes directly to district cost-containment efforts by ensuring accurate documentation and reducing avoidable unemployment expenses through high-quality case preparation.

PROBLEM SOLVING

The specialist is responsible for proactively identifying gaps in documentation, clarifying discrepancies, and recommending corrective actions for routine issues. More complex or high-risk cases are elevated to the CTM. The specialist may also review materials submitted by campuses and departments to ensure accuracy and adherence to policies before they become part of the district’s official unemployment record.

IMPACT OF DECISIONS

Accurate decision-making directly influences the district’s financial exposure and compliance with unemployment laws. Errors may result in unnecessary unemployment payments, penalties, or adverse legal outcomes. The specialist plays a crucial role in maintaining operational efficiency and upholding the district’s reputation through timely, accurate work.

COMMUNICATION/INTERACTIONS

This role interacts frequently with campus leaders, HR partners, division administrators, and state unemployment agencies.

CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIPS

The specialist gathers information, clarifies procedures, answers questions, and provides guidance on documentation requirements. Because the work involves confidential employee information, professionalism, discretion, and precise communication are critical. The specialist supports the CTM in maintaining high customer service standards and ensuring that district stakeholders receive clear, consistent information.

WORKING/ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

Work is performed in a standard office environment with minimal exposure to hazards. The position may require carrying or lifting up to 25–35 pounds, typically related to files, packets, or materials.