Work Life Consultant

University of Victoria; Victoria; On-site; CAD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A Canadian university seeks a Work Life Consultant to manage disability claims and provide expert support in both disability management and return-to-work processes. The ideal candidate will have a degree in Human Resources or a related field and at least five years of relevant experience, ideally in a unionized context. Strong interpersonal, problem-solving, and communication skills are required. This role entails navigating complex health situations and fostering a positive workplace culture.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in disability management or case management.
• HR certification preferred (e.g., CPHR, Certified Disability Management Professional).
• Experience in a unionized environment is an asset.

Responsibilities

• Manage occupational and non-occupational claims, including short-term and long-term disability cases.
• Provide expert support in disability management and return-to-work services.
• Enable safe and timely return to work for employees on medical leave.

Skills

Strong understanding of occupational health

Exceptional interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Problem-solving skills

Conflict resolution skills

Education

University degree in Human Resources, Health Sciences, or related field

Tools

Case management software

Job description

As a team of human resources professionals, our role is to provide programs, services, guidance, support, and expertise that builds on the strength of our leaders, their teams and our collegial, inclusive and collaborative culture to empower people to make a difference in this dynamic, research intensive and student-centered environment.

The Total Compensation and Recruitment team is a unit of Human Resources specialized services responsible for the development, implementation, communication and administration of total compensation, recruitment, wellness, and disability management strategies in support of the university’s purpose, pledge and principles as outlined in Distinctly UVic.

Mandate

The Work Life Consultant is a strategic business partner to university leaders and a vital resource for employees and union representatives, delivering expert support in disability management and return-to-work services. This role is responsible for managing occupational and non-occupational claims, including short-term and long-term disability cases. By fostering positive relationships and ensuring compliance with relevant policies and legislation (BC Human Rights Code), the Work Life Consultant contributes to a safe, supportive and productive work environment.

The Work Life Consultant operates in a dynamic and emotionally demanding environment, often navigating sensitive situations involving employees facing significant health challenges. The role requires balancing empathy and support with organizational objectives, while managing complex cases that may involve conflicting interests among employees, leaders, unions, and external stakeholders.

Objective

• Enable safe and timely remain at work and return to work for employees on medical leave
• Provide expertise and guidance in disability management and medical accommodation
• Efficiently manage occupational and non-occupational claims
• Promote health literacy and awareness of disability and medical accommodation resources
• Foster a positive and supportive workplace culture

University degree in Human Resources, Health Sciences, Disability Management, or a related field and a minimum of 5 years’ experience in disability management, case management, or a related area, preferably within a unionized environment, or an equivalent combination of education, experience and training.

This Position Requires Demonstrated Experience

• Commitment to valuing diversity and contributing to an inclusive and respectful working and learning environment.
• Strong understanding of occupational health, return-to-work processes, and relevant legislation (e.g., BC Human Rights Code, Workers’ Compensation Act), jurisprudence and collective agreements.
• Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to navigate complex situations diplomatically.
• Experience with case documentation, claim processes, and familiarity with case management software.
• Experience developing and/or enhancing programs and related process
• Ability to communicate effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds and tailor communication style for different audiences and situations.
• Strong understanding of information systems, business software and data management.
• Excellent communications, strong negotiations skills, and conflict resolution skills.
• HR certification (e.g., CPHR, Certified Disability Management Professional) preferred.

Core Competencies

• Navigating Conflict - adept at mediating between diverse perspectives, de-escalating tensions, and fostering collaborative solutions that balance individual needs with organizational goals.
• Navigating Change - Demonstrates adaptability and resilience in response to changing work environment and demands.
• Communication - Communicates effectively with a broad range of people.
• Building Equitable Relationships - Builds and maintains equitable relationships.
• Teamwork - Actively collaborates with others to produce desired results in a supportive environment.
• Service Focus - Effectively assists and serves members of the University community to meet their needs.

Leadership Competencies

• Creativity and Innovation - Encourages and guides innovative ideas and appropriate solutions to enhance results.
• Problem Solving and Decision Making - Takes a broad approach when making decisions and solving problems. Makes connections between current actions and future trends to make informed decisions.
• Change Management - Engages with the university community to build understanding of and commitment to necessary change.