Abilities Management Advisor (Workplace Safety and Insurance Board)

The Role

Acts as the primary interface between the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) and the Region of Waterloo in the management of occupational claims. Ensures legislative compliance under the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act (WSIA), and consistent, effective, timely claims management.

Administers and coordinates the Region’s WSIB claims management program and practices, including both absence and work accommodation case management.  
 

Duties/Responsibilities

• Conducts timely review of employee incident reports (medical aid and lost time) to compile and complete accurate, time-sensitive information for the completion of WSIB forms.
• Uses Parklane systems to research information and file appropriate WSIB claim forms inclusive of claim objections.
• Liaises with WSIB representatives to manage claims, including negotiating return-to-work plans, initiating objection process, and coordinating return-to-work meetings. 
• Gathers any required additional information for WSIB appeals and assists the Region’s legal counsel with the preparation of files for appeals. Attends WSIB–level appeals.
• Provides advice and direction in all matters related to WSIB claims management and compliance with the WSIB Act.
• Collects and reviews medical information to determine medical fitness for work and identify restrictions and limitations. Liaises with treatment providers and physicians where necessary to clarify employees’ ability to engage in work duties.
• Develops individualized return to work/accommodation plans for employees (including documentation) to ensure timely, safe reintegration into the workplace.
• Coordinates return-to-work meetings with parties including employees, management, union representation, and internal/external stakeholders, per collective agreements, policies, and procedures.  
• Communicates and collaborates with Disability Management Team members, Payroll staff, and operating managers to compile the information required for WSIB forms. 
• Critically analyzes/evaluates reports of injury to assess work-relatedness in the context of WSIB policy.
• Monitors WSIB cost statements and follows up with WSIB as necessary. 
• Maintains physical and electronic WSIB files, including data entry, of all WSIB correspondence into Parklane.
• Tracks all WSIB claim activities using Parklane, including preparing reports and statistics. 
• Participates in regular meetings with the Disability Management Team to coordinate WSIB return-to-work processes for timely, safe return-to-work plans for injured/ill employees, including permanent accommodations. 
• Operates within the parameters of legislation, collective agreements, external and internal policies and procedures, and provides advice to internal HR partners, management, employees, and union representatives regarding WSIB claims management, return to work, and accommodation.
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• Maintains detailed notes and documentation of communication and actions taken on claims using electronic management systems (i.e., Parklane). 
• Collaborates and provides input on new/revised program policies, procedures, and tools as it relates to WSIB claims management accommodation.
• Performs related duties as required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge and skills are normally acquired through an undergraduate degree in health sciences (including but not limited to occupational therapy, human kinetics, kinesiology, physiotherapy, designation as a Registered Nurse), plus directly related vocational rehabilitation counselling experience in a unionized environment and WSIB claims management experience, including statistical analysis.
• Extensive knowledge of the Occupational Health & Safety Act and Workplace Safety and Insurance Act. Working knowledge of employment standards, labour relations, human rights, privacy and freedom of information, and other appropriate legislation.
• Knowledge of current medical treatment and rehabilitative/therapeutic techniques and terminology, and general medical terminology with an understanding of common injuries and conditions and how they are caused.
• Knowledge of and ability to comply with policies, procedures, and collective agreements.
• Human relations, communication, and negotiation skills to interview, counsel, and advise employees and management; negotiate return to work plans; facilitate meetings; communicate with doctors; and participate as an effective team member. 
• Critical thinking, judgement, and organizational skills to analyze situations, independently source information, meet deadlines, and balance tasks and conflicting priorities in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Computer skills with ability to use software such as Microsoft Office and a computerized human resources information system. 
• Ability to travel within Waterloo Region.
• Ability to support and demonstrate the Region’s values.