Senior Associate, Absence Subject Matter Expert (SME), Complex Implementations

Location Designation: Fully Remote
Role Overview:
The Absence Subject Matter Expert (SME), Complex Implementations, provides advanced subject matter expertise to support complex new business and in-force absence implementations. This role partners closely with the Implementation Manager to ensure thorough discovery, accurate translation of client requirements, and effective implementation of absence and leave solutions aligned with New York Life's administrative capabilities.
The SME serves as a senior technical resource for complex absence implementations, including FMLA, PFML, ADA, state-mandated programs, company leave policies, and integrated disability/leave solutions. The role focuses on operational design, compliance alignment, and high-quality execution to support successful go-live and client satisfaction.
What You'll Do:
Strategic Client Advisory & Discovery

• Lead detailed absence discovery sessions for complex implementations in partnership with the Implementation Manager.
• Document current-state absence practices, workflows, vendor relationships, and operational challenges.
• Conduct comprehensive requirements gathering across FMLA, state PFML, ADA, company leave policies, and integrated disability programs.
• Translate client needs into clear, structured business and system requirements.
• Educate clients on NYL's administrative model, case management approach, compliance framework, and service model.
• Provide guidance on best practices aligned to NYL's established absence administration framework.
• Participate in finalist presentations as a subject matter contributor.

Implementation Design & Execution

• Serve as the absence subject matter resource during complex implementations (typically 1,000+ lives).
• Collaborate with Configuration, Leave Operations, Claims, Data Exchange, Premium Administration, Contracts, and Enrollment teams to support accurate system setup.
• Develop and validate business requirement documents, process flows, case setup specifications, and leave policy rules.
• Support customization of communications, eligibility rules, file feeds, pay rules, and administrative services agreements.
• Identify implementation risks and escalate appropriately to the Implementation Manager and leadership.
• Provide technical guidance regarding file feed requirements, HRIS integrations, case configurations, and downstream system considerations.
• Support merger & acquisition implementations and complex in-force modifications involving absence programs.

Governance, Risk & Quality Support

• Proactively identify potential gaps or inconsistencies during implementation and recommend solutions.
• Validate compliance alignment with federal and state leave regulations within established NYL standards.
• Support go-live readiness validation and operational sign-off processes.
• Ensure completeness and accuracy of absence-related data elements for internal setup teams.

Client & Stakeholder Engagement

• Serve as primary absence subject matter contact for clients, brokers, TPAs, and internal partners during implementation.
• Facilitate cross-functional discussions to ensure clarity of roles, deliverables, and timelines.
• Support development of client-facing absence education materials and documentation.
• Communicate complex absence concepts clearly to both internal and external stakeholders.

Leadership & Continuous Improvement

• Provide informal guidance and mentorship to implementation team members.
• Support resolution of complex absence questions during implementation.
• Participate in cross-functional process improvement initiatives.
• Contribute to development of documentation templates, workflows, and implementation best practices.
• Educate internal teams on absence administration guidelines and compliance requirements.

What You'll Bring:

• 7+ years of experience in absence management, disability, or leave administration (FMLA, state-mandated leaves, ADA, company policies).
• Strong expertise in vendor-based and carrier-based absence administration models.
• Experience supporting complex client implementations or consulting engagements.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze complex requirements and translate them into structured documentation.
• Strong knowledge of HRIS platforms, case management systems, integrations, file feeds, and compliance frameworks.
• Experience managing large, multi-location or national clients (1,000+ lives preferred).
• Excellent facilitation, documentation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Bachelor's degree preferred.

Role Impact:
This role enhances the quality and consistency of complex absence implementations by providing advanced subject matter expertise, strengthening requirement clarity, supporting compliance integrity, and reducing downstream rework. The Absence SME plays a key role in delivering accurate, efficient, and client-aligned absence solutions within NYL's established implementation framework.
Pay Transparency
Salary Range: $90,000-$115,000
Overtime eligible: Exempt
Discretionary bonus eligible: Yes
Sales bonus eligible: No
Actual base salary will be determined based on several factors but not limited to individual's experience, skills, qualifications, and job location. Additionally, employees are eligible for an annual discretionary bonus. In addition to base salary, employees may also be eligible to participate in an incentive program.
Company Overview
At New York Life, our 180-year legacy of purpose and integrity fuels our future. As we evolve into a more technology-, data-, and AI-enabled organization, we remain grounded in the values that drive lasting impact.
Our diverse business portfolio creates opportunities to make a difference across industries and communities-inviting bold thinking, collaborative problem-solving, and purpose-driven innovation. Here, you'll find the rare balance of long-standing stability and forward momentum, supported by an inclusive team that honors tradition while embracing progress.
As a Fortune 100 mutual company, we offer a place to grow your skills, contribute to meaningful work, and deliver solutions that matter. Your ideas drive what's next, and your growth powers it.
Our Benefits
We provide a full package of benefits for employees - and have unique offerings for a modern workforce, including leave programs, adoption assistance, and student loan repayment programs. Based on feedback from our employees, we continue to refine and add benefits to our offering, so that you can flourish both inside and outside of work.Click hereto discover more about our comprehensive benefit options or visit our NYL Benefits Site.
Our Commitment to Inclusion
At New York Life, fostering an inclusive workplace is fundamental to who we are and how we serve our communities. We have a longstanding commitment to creating an environment where individuals can contribute their best and succeed together. This foundation is rooted in our core values of humanity and integrity, ensuring that every employee feels valued and supported. By embracing a broad range of perspectives and experiences, we achieve greater success and fulfill our promise of providing financial security and peace of mind to families across all communities. Click here to learn more about New York Life's leadership in this space.
Recognized as one of Fortune's World's Most Admired Companies, New York Life is committed to improving local communities through a culture of employee giving and volunteerism, supported by the Foundation. We're proud that due to our mutuality, we operate in the best interests of our policy owners. To learn more about career opportunities at New York Life, please visit the Careers page of www.NewYorkLife.com.
Visit our LinkedIn to see how our employees and agents are leading the industry and impacting communities.
Visit our Newsroom to learn more about how our company is constantly evolving to meet our clients' and employees' needs.
Job Requisition ID: 93588