Healthy Workplace, Absence Partner Specialist (Temporary)

Accountabilities: Coordinate the timely processing and case management of occupational and non-occupational illness and injury claims in collaboration with third-party providers. Work with Human Resources Business Partners (HRBPs), ministry units, HR service teams, and HR operations to ensure accurate coding, reporting, compliance, and effective return-to-work planning. Use case management software to track active absence-related cases, maintain complete and accurate records, and support consistent disability management practices. Provide guidance on disability policies, sick leave procedures, and applicable workers’ compensation legislation, including Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB) and Workers’ Compensation Act (WCA) provisions. Assist with resolving claim disputes, appeals, and other absence-related issues in collaboration with relevant stakeholders and external providers. Advise leaders on return-to-work programs and help develop modified or graduated return-to-work plans that support employees’ safe and sustainable reintegration. Support special projects, training sessions, and educational initiatives related to absence management, workplace health, and workers’ compensation. Assist in preparing quarterly absence reports, analyzing relevant information, and developing operational manuals, procedures, and supporting documentation. Partner with the Benefits team to support compliance with applicable legislation and organizational policies, and contribute to the development and implementation of new policies or programs. Help ministry units resolve case management system inquiries and develop or improve disability-related processes and resources. Develop and promote workplace wellness initiatives, acting as a wellness ambassador and encouraging employees to use available resources, including the Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP). Handle sensitive employee, health, workplace safety, grievance, and labour relations information with the highest levels of confidentiality and professionalism. Requirements A university degree in Health and Safety, Disability Management, Absence Management, or a related field. Three to five years of relevant professional experience, including consulting or providing guidance in a related area. An equivalent combination of education, training, and professional experience may also be considered. Knowledge of disability and absence management practices, occupational and non-occupational injury claims, workers’ compensation processes, and return-to-work planning. Familiarity with relevant legislation, sick leave policies, disability programs, and compliance requirements. Strong technical skills and confidence using case management software, Microsoft Office applications, and other digital tools to maintain records, prepare reports, and manage workflows. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain policies, respond to inquiries, and collaborate effectively with internal and external stakeholders. Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and the capacity to manage multiple cases and competing priorities accurately. The ability to work independently, demonstrate initiative, and develop practical solutions to complex absence management challenges. A high level of discretion, integrity, and professional judgment when handling confidential health, employment, labour relations, and workplace safety information. A service-oriented and collaborative approach, with the ability to build productive relationships and support employees, managers, and HR teams. Bilingualism in English and French is preferred, both written and spoken, to support employees and stakeholders in both official languages. Benefits Competitive compensation: Target hiring range of CAD $70,241.60 to CAD $87,796.80 annually, with a maximum of CAD $105,372.80. Individualized salary placement: Compensation within the range is based on market conditions, internal equity, and the candidate’s relevant experience, skills, and qualifications. Remote work: Opportunity to work remotely in a full-time position based in Toronto, Ontario. Meaningful work: Contribute to employee well-being, effective absence management, and safe, sustainable return-to-work outcomes. Professional development: Gain experience across disability management, workers’ compensation, workplace wellness, and HR operations. Cross-functional collaboration: Work with HR professionals, ministry units, benefits specialists, and external service providers. Inclusive workplace: Join an environment that values dignity, service, fairness, and people from diverse backgrounds. Accessibility support: Reasonable accommodations are available upon request throughout the recruitment process.