Wellness and Abilities Specialist - Human Resources (6 Month Contract)

Please Note: If you are a current Algonquin College employee, apply to this job via the Workday application.

Department: Employee Abilities and Wellness

Position Type: Fixed Term Administrative

Salary Range: $45.37-$56.72-Hourly

Scheduled Weekly Hours: 36.25

Anticipated Start Date: October 14, 2024

Length of Contract: 6 Months

Posting Closing Date: October 1, 2024

Please note: jobs are posted until 11:59 pm on the job closing date.

Job Description:

Reporting to the Manager, Wellness and Abilities, the Wellness and Abilities Specialist manages the entire case management processes and procedures. This involves advising and coaching management, in partnership with the HR team members regarding all issues related to occupational and non-occupational disability claims, absence management strategies, active return to work programs, and accommodations within Ontario Human Rights protected grounds. The Wellness and Abilities Specialist closely monitors and tracks key trends related to Short Term Disability (STD), Long Term Disability (LTD), and WSIB absences and accommodation practices, identifying opportunities to support management in the development of absence prevention/early intervention strategies and successful return to work action plans.

The specialist is responsible for planning, coordinating, and managing all activities related to the employee’s application for Short Term Disability (STD), Long Term Disability Benefits (LTD), and WSIB protocols, including relevant activities/interventions related to accommodation and return to work functions leading to the safe and early return to work for all employees.

The specialist collaborates with employees, supervisors, union representatives, managers, Labour Relations, the medical community, and third-party providers concerning medical leave, return to work, and accommodation, providing case summaries to assist in the implementation and delivery of programs related to medical leaves, return to work, and accommodations. This is achieved through fostering constructive and cooperative relationships with all stakeholders of the College community.

The specialist supports the development and delivery of employee wellness programs, initiatives, and events for all levels at Algonquin College to continuously promote and support overall employee wellbeing.

The specialist prioritizes learning to stay abreast of the College policies, directives, and Provincial legislation regarding Accommodation, Human Rights, and Workplace Safety and Insurance.

Imperative to the position is sensitivity, confidentiality, and adept problem-solving skills as the incumbent is called upon to support and provide coaching and information to employees experiencing stressful and unforeseen circumstances.

Required Qualifications:

• Three (3) year Degree or diploma in areas such as Human Resource Management, Disability Management, or Occupational Health and Safety;
• Formal training in workplace wellness and health promotion would be considered an asset;
• Certified Human Resources Professional or Disability Return to Work Coordinator asset;
• Minimum of five (5) years of experience in Disability Management and Wellness initiatives, including experience working in a highly unionized work environment;
• Previous experience interpreting policies, directives, collective agreements, and Provincial legislation;
• Strong presentation skills;
• Ability to make independent decisions within the scope of the position;
• Extensive knowledge of and ability to interpret Collective Agreements, Terms and Conditions of Employment, Procedures and Policies, the Ontario Human Rights Act, Workplace Safety and Insurance Act, AODA legislation, and the Employment Standards Act;
• Minimum 5 years related experience in case management processes including intermittent absence;
• Strong analytical and coordination skills;
• Data management and analysis skills;
• Excellent organizational and time management skills with the ability to set priorities and work within deadlines;
• Ability to manage multiple conflicting demands and deadlines;
• Ability to work well under stress and pressure;
• Demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, PowerPoint, etc.), and familiarity with HRIS – Workday would be considered an asset;
• Excellent communication skills, both spoken and written, to communicate effectively with the public, in person or by telephone;
• Excellent teamwork skills with the ability to also work independently;
• Excellent listening and interpersonal skills;
• Demonstrated Records management skills;
• Respect for a strict code of confidentiality.

This position is eligible for hybrid work in conjunction with the College's Flexible Work Arrangement Policy. View Policy (subject to change).

Algonquin College values diversity and is an equal opportunity employer. We offer an inclusive work environment and encourage applications from all qualified individuals. If you require accommodation during the recruitment process please contact the Human Resources department at humanresources@algonquincollege.com. While we thank all those who apply, only those to be interviewed will be contacted.