Workers’ Compensation Specialist - Honolulu, Oahu

Workers’ Compensation Specialist

United Public Workers, AFSCME Local 646, AFL-CIO

Location:  Honolulu, HI 96817

Under the general supervision of the Assistant Division Director, this position independently performs assignments of a routine and complex nature in providing general workers compensation services to members of UPW/AFSCME that participates in our UPW Workers’ Compensation Program.  The position involves in-dept interpersonal contact relative to workers compensation enforcement.

Duties & Responsibilities:

·         Oversees the United Public Workers’ Workers’ Compensation (WC) Program. 

·         Serves as a resource person to members that participate in the UPW WC Program.

·         Reviews, evaluates, and determines if a member is eligible to participate in the UPW WC Program.

·         Process members request to participate in the UPW WC Program.

·         Notifies Department of Labor and Industrial Relations, Disability Compensation Division (DCD), and Employer’s Representative of UPW representation.

·         Responds to workers compensation inquiries regarding Hawaii State law to respond members inquiries that participate in the UPW WC Program.

·         Assess the complexity of inquiries to determine potential violations or need for technical follow-up.

·         Research, analyze, and present information clearly, concisely, orally, and in writing.

·         Responds appropriately to member inquiries that are participating in the UPW WC program that may be received via direct contact, phone calls, or e-mail messages.

·         Prepares and process request for hearings at DCD.

·         Prepares and submits Position Statements and Appeals at DCD.

·         Prepares presentation and representation of members at DCD that are participating in the UPW WC program in accordance with Hawaii State Law. 

·         Prepares and submit recommendations for cases pending at DCD, and Labor and Industrial Relations Appeal Board, and Hawaii Supreme Court.

·         Maintains general and current knowledge of workers compensation law.

·         Oversees and maintains WC files and WC spreadsheets. 

·         Resolve contested WC claims and benefit disputes with Employer Representatives and Insurance Carriers. 

·         Attends meetings and hearings to articulate UPW’s position to individuals. 

·         Interpret laws, rules, and regulations related to workers compensation. 

·         Attends staff meetings, participate in discussions, and contributes meaningful input.

·         Able to deal tactfully and effectively with public and private representatives and UPW membership. 

·         Follow oral and written instructions.

·         Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

·         Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university.  Work experience may be substituted for a bachelor’s degree on a year-for-year basis.  Such experience must have provided the knowledge, skills, and analytical ability normally gained from the attainment of a bachelor’s degree.

·         At least one (1) year of experience resolving complex issues, legal matters, and/or servicing Hawai’i government employees.

·         Knowledge of State laws regarding Workers’ Compensation.

·         Ability to interact effectively with members, employer representatives, and staff, either via direct contact or telephone; speak before a hearings officer; produce written reports and recommendations on behalf of members; analyze and follow-up on members concerns related to WC; participate in all UPW/AFSCME activities including after-hours events; travel off-island as required for union business; compose letters, memos, reports, and briefings; and operate computers to generate documents.

·         Ability to write clearly, comprehensive reports and other documents.  Read and interpret complex written material.  Solve complex problems logically and systematically.

·         Knowledge of Microsoft Office programs required.

·         Valid Hawaii Drivers’ License and person vehicle required.

UPW is an equal opportunity employer, and, as such, does not discriminate against an employee or applicant on the basis of race, creed, color, age, sex, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender orientation, gender identity, religious affiliation, disability, or any other classification protected from discrimination under applicable law.