Occupational Health & Safety (OH&S) Advisor

Reporting to the Senior Manager of Human Resources, the OH&S Advisor develops, implements and maintains a corporate–wide Occupational Health and Safety management system to help ensure the safety of the workforce and compliance with relevant legislation. Provides advice and guidance in the interpretation and application of all applicable legislation, promotes safety awareness, strives towards continuous improvement of the City’s safety program and fosters a strong safety culture.  Liaises with WorkSafeBC and helps to facilitate the City’s Stay at Work /Return to Work program. Ensures compliance with WorkSafeBC requirements and COR standards.

The Successful Candidate Will Have: 

• Degree or Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety or an equivalent combination of formal OH&S education, ongoing professional development and work experience.
• BC Class 5 Drivers License
• Designation as a Canadian Registered Safety Professional designation or eligibility for Canadian Registered Safety Professional (CRSP) or closely related/equivalent qualification
• Considerable (5 – 7 years) health and safety and claims management experience (hands on experience in designing and implementing safety programs, conducting safety audits, and delivering safety related training) in a unionized environment
• Sound experience coordinating or supporting disability management initiatives.
• Thorough knowledge of BC OH&S Regulations, Workers’ Compensation Act and Return to Work programs and strategies.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, organizational, consultative, research, motivational, conflict resolution, team building and problem-solving skills.
• Strong office computer skills, including the ability to maintain online incident data base, create reports and performing statistical analysis.
• Ability to compose clear, comprehensive and concise written procedures, reports, correspondence and presentations.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with a variety of internal and external contacts such as City staff at all levels, other local governments, government agencies, and consultants.
• Ability to lead and mentor groups such as the Joint Health & Safety Committee, Incident investigation teams and other working groups, providing OHS expertise and oversight.
• Ability to deal tactfully and effectively with employees regarding sensitive issues, and ability to influence and persuade employees and managers that safety is in their best interest
• Familiarity with Collective agreements and employment legislation
• Some knowledge of Human Resources functions, principles, statutory requirements and human rights issues.

COMPLEMENTARY ASSETS:

• Experience working in public sector operations or a unionized environment is an asset
• Registered Occupational Hygienist (ROH) or ROH Technologist (ROHT)
• Certified Return to Work Coordinator (CRTWC) or Certified Disability Management Professional (CDMP)

This is a full-time position; start date to be determined. Salary: $89,724 to $101,959 (Pay Band 5).

The OH&S Advisor will work primarily in an office setting, collaborating closely with all Division Managers, City staff, union representatives, and external agencies. This role requires strict confidentiality, professionalism, and adherence to City policies and collective agreements.

Applicants must be eligible to work in Canada (Permanent Resident / Canadian Citizen). 

Application Process:
Interested applicants should submit a resume and cover letter no later than April 5, 2025.  Submit your application by clicking on the “Apply” button below. 

The City of Courtenay is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion and encourages applications from all qualified individuals.

We thank all applicants for their interest, but only those short listed will be contacted.

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