Workplace Health and Ability Specialist

County of Essex•Town of Essex, ON

9d•CA$89,777 - CA$110,222•Onsite

About The Position

The County of Essex is seeking a Workplace Health and Ability Specialist to lead occupational and non-occupational disability management programs across the organization. In this specialized role, you will provide expert guidance on workplace accommodations, attendance support, WSIB administration, and return-to-work planning from a compliance perspective. Working closely with leaders, employees, unions, healthcare providers, and Human Resources, you will help ensure the Corporation meets its obligations under applicable legislation while supporting positive employee outcomes. This position is ideal for a professional who enjoys navigating complex cases, interpreting medical information, mitigating organizational risk, and helping create practical workplace solutions.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Health Sciences, Occupational Health, Social Sciences, or a related discipline; or an equivalent combination of education and experience
Minimum of five (5) years of progressive experience in disability management, workplace accommodation, attendance support, and claims management
Experience managing WSIB and non-occupational disability cases
Strong knowledge of disability management principles and accommodation practices
Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills
Ability to manage highly sensitive and confidential information
Strong communication, conflict resolution, and relationship-building skills
Advanced proficiency in Microsoft 365 and HR information systems
Valid Class G Ontario Driver's Licence and reliable vehicle
Ability to provide a Driver Abstract and Police Information Check

Nice To Haves

Certification such as Certified Disability Management Professional (CDMP), Certified Return to Work Coordinator (CRWC), or related disability management designation is considered an asset.
Experience within a unionized environment is preferred

Responsibilities

Lead the administration and coordination of occupational and non-occupational disability cases, including WSIB, short-term disability, long-term disability, and medically supported absences
Review medical information and assess functional abilities, restrictions, and accommodation requirements
Develop and coordinate individualized accommodation and return-to-work plans
Act as the primary contact for disability management matters involving employees, leaders, unions, healthcare providers, insurers, and external agencies
Ensure compliance with the Human Rights Code, WSIA, ESA, OHSA, PHIPA, collective agreements, and County policies
Support the organization in fulfilling its duty to accommodate obligations
Coordinate independent medical examinations and requests for additional medical information where appropriate
Prepare documentation and support organizational representation in grievances, arbitrations, WSIB matters, mediations, and legal proceedings
Provide coaching and guidance to leaders on attendance support, accommodations, disability management, and employee communication
Participate in interdisciplinary case discussions and complex case reviews
Partner with Human Resources and departmental leaders to support effective case management
Monitor trends related to absenteeism, claims duration, accommodation activity, and WSIB costs
Prepare reports, metrics, and recommendations for leadership
Identify opportunities to improve disability management practices and organizational outcomes