Staff Specialist

This recruitment will remain posted on a continuous basis until the needs of the Department are met. Qualified applicants are encouraged to apply immediately.

Salary may be negotiable within the range listed above based on position requirements and successful candidates qualifications subject to appropriate authorization.

This recruitment is being held to establish an Open Eligible List. The list can be used to fill current and future Staff Specialist positions. The eligible list established may also be used to fill positions in similar and/or lower classifications throughout the County of Orange.

THE ORANGE COUNTY SHERIFFS DEPARTMENT

The Orange County Sheriffs Department is among the largest in the nation providing exemplary law enforcement services focused on a collaborative dedicated and innovative approach to public safety. Our nearly 4000 sworn and professional staff are committed to serving the needs of Orange County through six organizational Commands comprised of 23 Divisions. Together these Commands and Divisions provide services including land air and sea-based patrol custody operations investigative services emergency management coroner services forensics and specialty operations among an extensive list of other public safety services.

THE DIVISION

The Strategy Accountability Focus and Evaluation (S.A.F.E.) Division reviews enhances and develops Department policies; ensures compliance with applicable mandates; reduces organizational liability; and supports injured employees in their recovery and return to work.

The Division produces statistical reports analyzes operational trends conducts program reviews and tracks performance to support data-driven decision-making and continuous improvement. The S.A.F.E. Division includes the Risk Management S.A.F.E. S.T.A.R. (Sustainability Transparency Accountability and Review) and Internal Affairs Bureaus which collectively support the Departments commitment to accountability and public service.

This position operates in a high-volume deadline-driven environment requiring accuracy discretion and the ability to manage sensitive and complex matters. The role serves as a key coordination point to ensure compliance accuracy and alignment across multiple interrelated programs including facilitating the interactive process and supporting return-to-work outcomes.

Key Responsibilities:
Perform complex analytical work including problem identification data collection evaluation development of alternatives and recommendation of solutions
Analyze and interpret medical work restrictions and work status updates to determine appropriate next steps and ensure compliance with applicable policies and procedures
Conduct and document interactive process meetings with employees to assess reasonable accommodations and facilitate return-to-work outcomes in compliance with applicable laws
Manage and maintain case records including updating case management systems tracking tools and confidential employee files
Calculate enter and audit workers compensation benefits pay statuses leave statuses and related payroll actions
Monitor and coordinate time-sensitive programs including drug testing program activities and associated contracts
Respond to high-volume inquiries via phone email and in person providing guidance on workers compensation and return-to-work processes
Prepare reports correspondence and analytical documents using standard office software applications
Provide back-up support to management
Lead coordinate or oversee support staff depending on assignment

Return to Work and Disability Management / Knowledge:
Apply applicable laws regulations and best practices related to workers compensation and disability management
Facilitate interactive process meetings in compliance with applicable laws (e.g. ADA/FEHA or equivalent) including evaluating reasonable accommodations and documenting outcomes
Interpret labor agreements policies and applicable legal requirements
Analyze medical documentation and accurately determine employee work status and appropriate follow-up actions
Prioritize workload effectively while meeting strict operational deadlines

Oral and Written Communication Skills:
Respond to inquiries related to assigned programs with clarity and professionalism
Communicate effectively with all levels of an organization including leadership on sensitive matters
Prepare clear concise and accurate written materials for executive-level review
Establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal staff external partners labor representatives vendors (including third-party administrators) and legal representatives as appropriate

Safety / Accountability / Confidentiality:
Deliver accurate high-quality work in a high-volume deadline-driven environment
Apply policies and procedures to minimize risk and liability exposure
Identify and escalate safety compliance or confidentiality concerns appropriately
Maintain strict confidentiality and adhere to organizational policies and standards

EMAIL NOTIFICATION:
Email is the primary form of notification during the recruitment process. Please ensure your correct email address is included in our application and use only one email account.

NOTE:User accounts are established for one person only and should not be shared with another person. Multiple applications with multiple users may jeopardize your status in the recruitment process for any positions for which you apply. Candidates will be notified regarding their status as the recruitment proceeds via email through the site. Please check your email folders including spam/junk folders and/or accept emails ending with and . If your email address should change please update your profile at .

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