1. Provides technical guidance and procedural assistance to managers, supervisors, and employees in executing a variety of employee benefits' programs, which may include workers' compensation, health and life benefits, Thrift Savings Program (TSP), awards, performance management, retirement, etc. Develops and carries out specific projects to accomplish the technical support mission of the Human Resources Office. Advises supervisors and employees on regulatory requirements of the programs and develops instructions. Reviews and interprets policies, directives, and other issuances by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), National Guard (NGB), Department of Labor (DOL), and outside control agencies for applicability to activities serviced. Takes appropriate action to comply with such directives and guidance or refers the matters to the proper functional staff for action. Coordinates publication of local policies and regulations.
2. Injury Compensation: Serves as a technical expert in matters regarding employees' claims for Workers Compensation. Serves as the Injury Compensation Program Administrator and primary point of contact for the Federal Employee's Compensation Act (FECA) program for facilities at numerous statewide locations. Investigates facts and develops cases relative to on-the-job injuries, illnesses, processes non-routine and routine claims which require identifying and substantiating information; and compiles pertinent information for use in filing, as well as controverting claims. Coordinates case details between employees, supervisors, medical personnel, and claims offices. Reviews claims and medical documents. Reviews CA-1, CA-2, and other program forms submitted by/for employees concerning occupational injury, illness or disease for accuracy and completeness. Solicits required information from employee and supervisor, as necessary, to complete documents. Obtains facts to reconcile any noted conflicts or discrepancies in description of injury or accident site. Assesses and analyzes situations to ensure minimum compensation costs are expended and light duty policies are implemented. When appropriate, coordinates with management and other HRO Specialists to ensure light duty is afforded the employee. Works through appropriate channels with the DOL, Civilian Personnel Management Service (CPMS) Injury and Unemployment Compensation Division (IUCD), and supervisors to determine that payment of legitimate claims is made, fraud is reported, and questionable claims are reviewed. Researches and presents any questionable cases to DOL for further action. Provides information and assistance to claimants and supervisors concerning processing procedures. Tracks claim status and follow-up requirements, monitors and coordinates eligibility for continuation of pay for eligible claimants. Provides counseling to employees and supervisors on matters relating to workers' compensation, such as potential job reassignment are light duty, options regarding leave for time off the job, and potential compensation. Obtains facts to reconcile apparent conflicts regarding payment of benefits, medical bills, etc. Researches, writes, and composes draft local instructions, directives, and reporting requirements for the FECA Program. Manages and monitors Office of Workers Compensation Program (OWCP) cost for the state, and develops programs and processes to help reduce OWCP costs by coordinating with employees, Department of Labor, medical professionals, and supervisors to return employees to work as soon as medically possible. Provides background information or answers congressional inquiries related to injured employees claims. Makes initial contact with all compensation recipients and subsequent contacts as necessary. Works with rehabilitation counselors and field nurses on return to duty under the Nurse Intervention Program. Utilizes the Injury Compensation/ Unemployment Compensation (IC/UC) computer system to make inquiries and monitor claim status. Analyzes claims to determine appropriateness of payment. Responsible for processing and maintaining the various IC claims forms and providing additional information as required in the completion/ submission of such forms. May initiate appeals of unwarranted claims and attends the IC appeals hearings. Maintains automated data system and produces required reports. Prepares program publicity and local instructions implementing specific portions of the Worker's Compensation program. Develops, modifies, and conducts FECA and Worker's Compensation training to supervisors, managers, and conducts briefing for technicians.
DUTIES CONTINUED UNDER EDUCATION
Starting at $59,966 Per Year (GS 9)