Kwantlen Polytechnic University

KPU offers all learners opportunities to achieve success in a diverse range of programs that blend theory and practice, critical understanding, and social and ethical awareness necessary for good citizenship and rewarding careers.  KPU strives to implement initiatives that will attract, support, engage, and retain KPU’s people and create an environment where all employees see themselves as contributing to student learning.

JOB OVERVIEW:  Accommodations and Return to Work Specialist

The Accommodations and Return to Work Specialist (ARWS) is responsible for providing expertise in accommodations and return to work plans for employees. This role reviews accommodation requests and identifies options and strategies that allow employees to participate to the fullest extent possible at KPU. The ARWS provides guidance, direction and interpretation of human resources policies, processes, Collective Agreements, and Administrative Terms and Conditions. They assist with the development and delivery of disability management programs and services for University employees and works closely with management, employees, and a wide range of internal and external partners in the delivery of programs and services.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources Management, Occupational Health, Kinesiology or a related field;
• Minimum of three years’ related experience in developing and implementing employee accommodation and disability claims management in a unionized environment;
• Professional Certification or registered professional status within disability management, such as Certified Disability Management Profession (CDMP), Canadian Certified Rehabilitation Counsellor (CCRC), Accredited Rehabilitation Professional would be an asset;
• Or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

COMPETENCIES

• Demonstrated knowledge of the concepts, theories, practices and techniques of disability management, including accommodation, rehabilitation, case management, attendance awareness, and stay at work/early return to work programs
• Proven understanding of collective agreements, benefit policies, workplace legislation, disability guidelines and Human Rights legislation as they relate to disability management.
• Advanced interpersonal, communication, mediation and negotiation skills with ability to handle difficult conversations, emotional situations, conflict, and resistance with tact, diplomacy and professionalism.
• Demonstrated judgement, discretion and the ability to maintain a high degree of confidentiality.
• Demonstrated innovation and change management skills, including supporting and encouraging new ideas and approaches to build organizational efficiency.
• Demonstrated business acumen considering the business impact in decision making while maintaining a people first perspective.
• Demonstrated analytical and problem-solving skills and the ability to identify and recommend creative solutions.
• Proven ability to juggle and prioritize tasks, work to deadlines and demands, making responsible decisions and determine when to seek advice.
• High customer service orientation, with the ability to create a positive and meaningful customer experience.
• Demonstrated knowledge of medical/treatment terminology related to disability and vocational rehabilitation.

Ability to travel between campuses is required

Please click here for a more detailed job description

Salary Information

The compensation range is the span between the minimum and maximum base salary (as listed above) for a position.  Approximately halfway between the minimum and the maximum represents an employee that possesses full job knowledge, qualifications and experience for the position.  In the normal course, employees will be hired, transferred or promoted between the minimum and approximately halfway of the salary range for a job. Annual salary increases are available through participation in the Administrative Performance Management program

Why Join KPU?

• Recognized as one of B.C.'s Top Employers  
• KPU is committed to actively fostering an equitable and inclusive working environment
• Competitive compensation  
• Hybrid environment, flexible work around core hours
• Defined Benefit Pension Plan – College Pension Plan
• Extended Medical, Dental, Healthcare Spending Account, Sick Leave, Long Term Disability, Life Insurance, Optional Life Insurance, Accidental Death and Dismemberment, Emergency Travel Assistance, Employee and Family Assistance Program, Teledoc
• Professional Development Days: up to 10 days paid per year
• Maternity and parental leave top-up
• Generous vacation package
• Campus work environment, outdoor sitting areas and nearby walking trails
• Campus athletic and fitness centers with a variety of instructor-led classes
• Tuition waiver program – eligible to waive tuition costs of courses at KPU equivalent to 3 credits per semester
• Inhouse training and development
• Networking and social events such as KPU Day, Holiday Social etc.
• Intercampus shuttle
• Access to automotive, horticulture, brewery and other programs’ services
• Clubs: Jeopardy, Toastmasters, E-sports, Ted Talks etc.
• Library and Bookstore (discounts)  
• **Benefits may vary if the position is temporary or part-time**

Does this role sound like it was made for you, yet you don’t check every box?

We at KPU understand that experiences and qualifications may look differently for everyone and, if this job description is of interest to you, we encourage you to apply.

Note to Applicants:

Kwantlen Polytechnic University welcomes and encourages applications from equity deserving groups and diverse experiences including, but not limited to, Indigenous people, racialized people, people with disabilities, and members of the 2S/LGBTQIA+ community.

If there are any barriers that you are experiencing or an accommodation that we can provide to support you through the application process, please reach out to us at humanresources@kpu.ca.

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.

Please note: KPU supports internal development and growth opportunities and as a result, internal candidates may be given preference over external candidates.

We thank all applicants for their interest in employment with KPU. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted. 

Kwantlen Polytechnic University is committed to protecting the safety and welfare of employees, students, and the general public, and upholding the reputation and integrity of the University. For this reason, final applicants will be asked to undergo a background check.