Return to Work Specialist

Opening Statement
We acknowledge that the City of Kingston is situated on traditional Anishinabek (Ah
- nish-in-ah-bay), Haudenosaunee (Ho-den-o-show-nee) and Huron-Wendat (huron-wen-dat) territory and is the home of many Indigenous peoples. We are grateful to reside and work on this land. Kingston is a smart, livable city in the heart of eastern Ontario. Its stable and diversified economy includes global corporations, innovative start-ups and all levels of government. Kingstonians enjoy a high quality of life with access to world-class education and research institutions, advanced healthcare facilities, affordable living and vibrant entertainment and tourism activities.

Position Summary
The Return to Work Specialist is responsible for developing and implementing effective strategies to support employees in (stay at work and) their transition back to work after a period of absence due to illness, injury, or other health-related reasons. The Specialist will collaborate with employees, supervisors, healthcare professionals, and other stakeholders to create personalized return to work plans and provide ongoing support throughout the process.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Develop and implement return to work policies and procedures in compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and best practices.

Serve as the main point of contact for employees returning to work, providing guidance, support, and resources to facilitate a successful transition.

Collaborate with supervisors, human resources, and healthcare professionals to assess employees' abilities, restrictions, and accommodations required for their safe and productive return.

Conduct comprehensive assessments of employees' functional abilities, limitations, and work readiness through interviews, medical documentation review, and consultation with healthcare providers.

Develop individualized return to work plans in consultation with employees, supervisors, and healthcare professionals, ensuring appropriate accommodations and gradual work reintegration.

Coordinate communication between all parties involved in the return to work process, including employees, supervisors, healthcare professionals, and insurance providers, to ensure a coordinated and seamless transition.

Monitor and evaluate employees' progress during the return to work process, identifying any barriers or challenges and implementing appropriate adjustments or interventions as needed.

Provide ongoing support and coaching to employees throughout their return to work, addressing concerns, providing resources, and promoting a positive work environment.

Maintain accurate and confidential records related to the return to work process, ensuring compliance with privacy regulations and company policies.

Stay updated on relevant legislation, industry best practices, and emerging trends in return to work programs to continuously improve the effectiveness of the program.

Promote ergonomic workplace body postures and equipment selection.

Health promotion focusing on prevention and achieving equity in health and developing evidence-based health programs from needs assessment and program plan/implementation to evaluation.

Other duties as assigned
Qualifications, Competencies
Bachelor's degree in human resources, occupational health, psychology, social work, or a related field (relevant work experience may be considered in lieu of a degree).?

A minimum of 3 years of experience in return to work planning, case management, or disability management.

Strong knowledge of relevant legislation, including the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act, the Human Rights Code, and collective agreements.

Current registration with a regulatory body (i.e. Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Services Workers, College of Kinesiologists of Ontario, etc.)
Skills, Abilities, Work Demands
Excellent written and verbal communication skills to enable effective communications, including with third-party insurance carriers and medical professionals on sensitive and confidential issues

Demonstrated problem solving and conflict resolution skills in all interactions with employees, managers, healthcare professionals and insurance carriers

Strong understanding of rehabilitation, duration guidelines and resulting work restrictions / accommodations

Knowledge and understanding of the Human Rights Code, Ontarians with Disabilities Act, Occupational Health and Safety Act, Workplace Safety Insurance Act and other related legislation

Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines.

Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate records.

Knowledge of related policies, procedures, legislation and initiatives

Ability to advocate for employee well-being while balancing interests of the organization, legislative and policy requirements

Experience with disability management software is an asset

A valid Class “G” Ontario Driver’s Licence would be considered an asset

Required to obtain and maint