Ability and Wellness Specialist

County of Essex; Windsor; Hybrid; CAD 87,000 - 108,000; Full time

Job summary

A regional municipality in Windsor seeks an experienced Ability and Wellness Specialist to manage disability claims and promote wellness initiatives. You will work closely with paramedic leadership and HR to create an inclusive workplace. The ideal candidate has extensive experience in disability management and knowledge of relevant legislation. This is a full-time, permanent position offering a competitive salary and benefits package.

Benefits

OMERS pension plan

Comprehensive health, dental, and life insurance

Ongoing professional development

Qualifications

• Minimum of 7 years’ experience in disability management.
• Experience in a unionized or public sector environment preferred.
• In-depth knowledge of Ontario legislation related to disability management.

Responsibilities

• Manage WSIB and non-occupational claims effectively.
• Collaborate with various stakeholders for return-to-work plans.
• Promote wellness initiatives and a culture of psychological safety.

Skills

Communication

Empathy

Problem-solving

Stakeholder engagement

Project management

Analytical skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Human Resources or related field

CHRP or CHRL designation

Tools

Microsoft Office

HRIS

Job description

Overview

Ability and Wellness Specialist (EMS Portfolio)

Posting #: COE-23-25 | Opening Date: August 25, 2025 | Closing Date: September 14, 2025

Department: Human Resources

Location: County of Essex – Administration Building (Essex) and Mercer EMS Main Base (Windsor)

Salary Band: Band 5 | Non-Union | 35 Hours / Week

Compensation Range: $87,587 – 107,534

Vacancy Status: This is a permanent position

Role Snapshot (Our Elevator Pitch)

Are you a compassionate and strategic HR professional with a deep understanding of disability management and wellness? Join the County of Essex as our Ability and Wellness Specialist and play a critical role in supporting the well-being of our Essex-Windsor EMS Employees. From managing return-to-work processes to championing wellness initiatives, you\'ll contribute to a healthier, more inclusive workplace across the County.

Why Work With Us?

The County of Essex is an upper-tier municipality serving 193,000 residents and delivering shared services across Windsor-Essex. Located in Ontario\'s southernmost region, the County offers an affordable blend of urban and rural living, unmatched recreational opportunities, and proximity to Windsor and Detroit. With competitive benefits, professional development, and a culture rooted in respect and inclusivity, we\'re committed to helping our employees thrive. Essex-Windsor EMS is a vital and fast-paced department, delivering high-quality paramedic services across the region with a commitment to clinical excellence, innovation, and community care.

What You’ll Do

Responsibilities:

• Managing (WSIB) and non-occupational claims, ensuring timely follow-up, compliance with legislation, and alignment with organizational policies, with a strong focus on EMS staff
• Collaborate closely with paramedic leadership, union representatives, the Manager, Human Resources and Administration, and HR Business Partners to deliver effective return-to-work and accommodation plans.
• Promote a culture of psychological safety, resilience, and proactive health through targeted wellness initiatives.
• Guide managers and employees on legislative compliance, accommodation strategies, and best practices in disability management.
• Analyze disability and wellness data to identify trends, risks, and opportunities for improvement.

Qualifications

Education and Growth:

• A bachelor\'s degree in Human Resources, Health Sciences, Social Sciences, or a related field
• Eligibility for or possession of certifications such as CDMP, CRTWC, or CVRP is an asset
• CHRP or CHRL designation preferred

Experience and Expertise:

• Minimum of 7 years\' progressive experience in disability management, including both occupational and non-occupational cases
• Experience in a unionized and/or public sector environment is preferred

Skills and Abilities:

• In-depth knowledge of Ontario legislation, including AODA, OHSA, WSIA, PHIPA, ESA, and the Human Rights Code
• Exceptional communication, empathy, problem-solving, and stakeholder engagement skill
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, HRIS, and disability case management system
• Strong project management and analytical skills

Other Requirements:

• A valid Class "G" Ontario driver\'s license and access to a personal vehicle for work-related purposes
• Ability to provide a Ministry of Transportation Driver Abstract and Police Information Check

What We Are Offering

• A full-time (35 hours per week) position based at the County of Essex Administration Building and Mercer EMS Main Base (the role will require an approximately 50 / 50 split between locations)
• A competitive salary aligned with Salary Band 5 of our non-union structure
• Participation in the OMERS pension plan
• Comprehensive health, dental, and life insurance benefits
• Ongoing professional development and training opportunities
• A collaborative and respectful work environment committed to service excellence

The Application Journey

Your journey starts here. Please submit your application online at the Career Opportunities section of our website by September 14, 2025. If selected, you will be contacted by our HR team to participate in our hiring process.

We believe in a thoughtful and transparent hiring process designed to identify the best candidate for the role while allowing you to learn about us. Here\'s what you can expect:

Application Steps

Application Submission: Submit your application, including a tailored resume and cover letter, through our online portal by September 14, 2025.

Initial Screening: Our hiring team will review applications to shortlist candidates whose skills, qualifications, and experience closely match the role\'s requirements.

Phone Interview: Shortlisted candidates will participate in a 15-minute phone interview to discuss their background, interest in the role, and alignment with our organizational culture.

Comprehensive Interview Panel: Selected candidates will be invited to a panel interview. This stage will focus on your experience and skills in the area of Disability Management, with representatives from HR and other departments for a holistic evaluation.

Offer and Onboarding: If selected, you\'ll receive a formal offer outlining the terms of employment. Upon acceptance, our onboarding team will ensure a smooth transition, including introductions to your team, access to tools and systems, and a comprehensive overview of your first 90 days.

EEO and Accommodations: The County of Essex embraces diversity and inclusion in our workforce and workplace. We are committed to building inclusive teams and an equitable environment. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates and will accommodate needs under human rights legislation throughout all stages of the recruitment and selection process. Please let us know of any accommodations. Information regarding accommodations will be addressed confidentially and can be provided in alternate formats upon request.

Privacy: Personal information is collected in accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act and will be used for employment opportunities only.

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