Return-to-Work Specialist

Reporting directly to the Human Resources Director , the Return-to-Work Specialist will be the primary company liaison for employees on medical leave, ensuring a smooth and safe return-to-work process while driving continuous improvement in return-to-work and accommodation programs, with a strategic focus on our evidence-based early and safe return to work philosophy. The ideal candidate will be an initiative-taker who likes problem solving, is driven to identify continuous improvement opportunities and enjoys a challenge.

What We Offer

• A dynamic, safe, and rewarding work environment
• A flexible health, drug, dental and vision plan
• RRSP matching program
• Employee & Family Assistance Programs
• Health & Wellness reimbursements include gym memberships and fitness classes
• Product purchase program
• Maternity leave top-up program
• Opportunities to take part in job-related training and development
• Growth and progression opportunities within the large network of JD Irving group of companies
• $55,000 - $70,000 (please note that this is an estimate and actual pay will vary depending on experience, qualifications and professional certifications.)

Key Responsibilities

Full ownership of cases, driving timely follow-up, issue resolution & successful RTW outcomes

• Manage the end-to-end Return-to-Work (RTW) and Stay-at-Work (SAW) processes
• Complete case intake, assessment and file setup
• Initiate early contact with employees following injury or illness
• Coordinate modified duties and accommodation opportunities with customers and operations
• Submit required WCB documentation within legislated timelines across multiple provincial jurisdictions
• Request, review, and manage objective, function-based documentation
• Develop, implement, and monitor RTW/SAW plans
• Maintain regular communication with employees throughout their recovery and return to work
• Track case progress and proactively address barriers to successful return to work
• Maintain accurate, up-to-date, and confidential case files
• Ensure compliance with legislative, policy, and reporting requirements
• Collaborate with leaders, customers, insurers, workers' compensation boards and our Corporate Disability Manager
• Escalate complex cases and accommodation challenges as appropriate
• Monitor case outcomes and identify opportunities for continuous improvement

Education

• Diploma or Bachelor's degree in a related field such as: Human Resources, Occupational Health and Safety, Kinesiology, Rehabilitation Sciences, Nursing, Social Work, Psychology, Disability Management, Health Sciences, or Business Administration (with relevant experience).
• Experience in the following area will be considered an asset: Disability management, Workers' compensation legislation, Occupational health and safety, Human rights and accommodation obligations, Ergonomics, Case management, Mental health in the workplace, Vocational rehabilitation, and Labour and employment law.
• Relevant certifications in Disability Management, Return-to-Work Coordination, Occupational Health, or Case Management are considered an asset

Qualifications

• 2–5 years of experience in return-to-work coordination
• Demonstrated experience managing multiple concurrent cases from intake through successful resolution
• Strong understanding of workplace accommodation principles, functional abilities, medical restrictions, and return-to-work best practices
• Working knowledge of workers' compensation legislation, reporting requirements, and claims management processes
• Proven ability to build collaborative relationships with employees, operational leaders, customers, healthcare providers, insurers, and regulatory bodies
• Exceptional organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to effectively prioritize competing demands
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to maintaining accurate, confidential, and compliant documentation
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and conflict-resolution skills
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and proactively drive cases forward with minimal supervision
• Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify barriers and develop practical, employee-focused solutions
• Ability to adapt to a fast-paced environment while managing changing priorities and deadlines
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite
• Bilingualism (English and French) is considered a strong asset

Competencies

• Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple cases, track critical deadlines, maintain detailed documentation, and follow through on commitments with minimal supervision
• Self-starter with a strong sense of ownership and accountability
• Ability to influence and collaborate with stakeholders at all levels of the organization
• Commitment to delivering positive employee experiences while balancing operational and compliance requirements
• Results-oriented approach with a focus on timely case resolution and sustainable return-to-work outcomes

At Protrans Personnel Services Inc. , we recognize that the key to our success is our people. Protrans is a full-service, premium recruitment agency specializing in transportation, warehousing and distribution, manufacturing, and administrative placements. We pride ourselves in providing people solutions to help our customers meet their goals, and match employees with reward career opportunities.

Founded in 1882, J.D. Irving, Limited (JDI) operates in Eastern Canada (New-Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, Québec, Ontario, Newfoundland and Labrador), as well as in USA. We are a team of 20,000 dedicated employees. At J.D. Irving, Limited, you are part of a dynamic team of professionals who lead with integrity and are passionate about delivering results. With a culture that nurtures talent and creates an inclusive workplace, you can grow your career across our various operating divisions.

We are committed to creating accessible environments for our colleagues, candidates, and customers. Requests for accommodation due to a disability (which may be visible or invisible, temporary, or permanent) can be made at any stage of application and employment. We encourage candidates to make their accommodation needs known so that we can provide equitable opportunities.

Worried you do not meet all the requirements? Studies have shown that many applicants apply only to job opportunities when they feel they meet 100% of the criteria. We promote an inclusive environment where everyone is appreciated, recognized, and empowered to contribute fully. If you are interested in this position but are worried you did not meet all the requirements, we would encourage you to still apply.

Our recruitment advisors and hiring teams will utilize human screening combined with AI technology to help identify the skills and qualities that matter most to our business, while safeguarding your privacy and using AI responsibly.

We appreciate your interest in our company however only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.