NATURE OF WORK

The Health and Safety Advisor, reporting to the Manager of Health and Safety, plays a pivotal role in supporting and advancing the City’s Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) programs. This position combines administrative excellence with technical proficiency in developing, implementing, and evaluating safety management systems, policies, and training. The Advisor works collaboratively across all departments to ensure compliance with legislation, promote a strong safety culture, and provide guidance on health, safety, and wellness matters. The role requires a high level of organization, discretion, and initiative, with responsibilities ranging from data management and reporting to inspections and training facilitation.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

Reports to the Manager of Health and Safety

SUPERVISION EXERCISED

None

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES          

• Prepare detailed reports, presentations, agendas, meeting minutes, and statistical analyses.
• Gather and process health and safety data, correspondence, memos, and forms.
• Maintain filing systems and enter data into safety software programs.
• Provide reports on incidents, absenteeism, and injury/illness claims to stakeholders.
• Support the development, implementation, and evaluation of safety management systems and policies.
• Conduct assessments, audits, and inspections to ensure compliance with WorkSafeBC and other applicable legislation.
• Assist in drafting and updating safety policies, procedures, templates, and guidelines.
• Coordinate and maintain records in compliance with OHS regulations and legislative requirements.
• Facilitate corporate safety orientations for new and young workers.
• Coordinate, develop, and deliver internal health and safety training programs.
• Provide training and support in the use of the City’s safety software systems.
• Provide guidance to management and employees on occupational health and safety legislation, policies, and procedures.
• Support the City’s Ability Management Program, including stay-at-work and return-to-work accommodations.
• Participate in investigations and make recommendations for safety improvements.
• Act as a health and safety coach and mentor across departments.
• Support Joint Occupational Health and Safety Committees and other committees as assigned.
• Coordinate arrangements for meetings and events, including logistics and materials.
• Attend off-site meetings, crew meetings, and monthly safety meetings to provide guidance.
• Assist with audiometric, noise level, and other health and safety testing.
• Assist with ensuring adequate first aid, including attendants and supplies, is available at all worksites.
• Liaise with health and safety authorities and contractors as needed.
• Provide leadership and supervision in the absence of the Manager of Health and Safety.
• Assist in the City’s emergency management program as required.
• Contributes to a positive and respectful work environment by modelling workplace conduct in accordance with City policy.
• Complies with the City’s occupational health and safety program and applicable legislative requirements; reviews incidents and accidents, recommends corrective actions, delivers safety orientations, and conducts safety meetings as required.

Core Performance Objectives

• Client Focused – strives to provide superior public service
• Resource Management – never takes money from taxpayers before absolutely necessary
• Leadership – professional recommendation, servient implementation
• Innovation – debates and challenges processes

PERFORMANCE FACTORS

REQUIRED SKILLS, QUALIFICATIONS, LICENSES, CERTIFICATIONS & REGISTRATIONS

• Certificate, Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety, or equivalent
• Certified Health and Safety Consultant (CHSC), Canadian Registered Safety Professional (CRSP), National Construction Safety Officer (NCSO), and/or the equivalent designation or certification is preferred
• Minimum of 3 years of related experience, preferably in a unionized environment. Preference will be given to candidates with previous municipal experience
• Valid BC Class 5 Driver’s License
• Thorough knowledge of employment and safety standards, best practices and applicable legislation, including but not limited to the BC Workers’ Compensation Act and Occupational Health and Safety Regulation, Employment Standards Act, Human Rights Legislation and the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.
• Knowledge of WCB/STD/LTD processes and procedures, including WCB claims management and related legislation.
• Training and experience in the recognition, evaluation and control of workplace hazards.
• Strong facilitation, organizational, and analytical skills.
• Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication abilities.
• Ability to manage sensitive information with discretion and professionalism.
• Capable of working independently and collaboratively under pressure.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
• Ability to provide a clear Police Information Check

GENERAL

The duties listed are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed.  The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related and/or a logical assignment to the position.

Formal application; rating of education and experience; oral interview and reference check; police information check; and job related tests may be required

The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and the employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and the requirements of the job change.