Total Rewards Specialist

The Total Rewards Specialist provides integrated operational, technical, and analytical support across compensation, benefits, pension, and disability management programs.

The role is responsible for administering and enhancing Total Rewards programs, leading job evaluation and compensation processes, coordinating disability and leave cases, and supporting data-driven decision-making, program design, and continuous improvement initiatives.

This position acts as a key resource to ensure accurate program delivery while managing complex issues and contributing to strategic Total Rewards initiatives.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Compensation & Job Evaluation

• Lead job evaluation processes, including job description review, documentation, and maintenance of classification systems
• Conduct market research, salary benchmarking, and pay equity analysis
• Support development and maintenance of compensation structures and salary administration practices
• Provide costing, analytics, and reporting to support collective bargaining and organizational planning
• Maintain job and compensation data within HRIS systems

Benefits & Pension Programs

• Administer employee benefits programs, including enrollments, changes, and terminations
• Liaise with carriers, consultants, and vendors to resolve issues and ensure accurate coverage and service delivery
• Support benefits plan design, renewals, and employee communications
• Reconcile benefit invoices, support premium calculations, and monitor utilization trends
• Recommend cost containment strategies and program improvements
• Assist with pension administration and ensure alignment with applicable requirements (e.g., OMERS)

Disability, WSIB & Leave Management

• Coordinate and administer WSIB, LTD, and sick leave disability cases
• Manage complex and escalated disability cases, ensuring compliance with legislation, collective agreements, and policies
• Liaise with employees, managers, insurers, and external providers to support return-to-work and accommodation plans
• Maintain documentation, track claims, and monitor associated costs and trends
• Prepare required documentation (e.g., WSIB forms) and ensure timely reporting and follow-up

Duties and Responsibilities Cont'd

Policy, Programs & Continuous Improvement

• Develop, maintain, and update policies, procedures, and program documentation
• Identify opportunities to improve processes, service delivery, and program effectiveness
• Support audits, projects, and strategic Total Rewards initiatives
• Contribute to the development and implementation of Total Rewards strategies

Data, Reporting & Analytics

• Compile, analyze, and interpret data related to compensation, benefits, and disability programs
• Prepare regular and ad hoc reports (e.g., claims trends, absenteeism, benefits utilization)
• Develop insights and recommendations to support decision-making and continuous improvement
• Ensure data accuracy and integrity across HRIS and related systems

Employee & Stakeholder Support

• Respond to employee and manager inquiries related to Total Rewards programs, including benefits, compensation, and leave
• Provide guidance on policies, processes, and documentation requirements
• Collaborate with HR Business Partners, Payroll, Finance, and external stakeholders to resolve issues
• Provide expert advice on complex Total Rewards matters and escalate issues as appropriate
• Participate in cross-functional initiatives, committees, and projects

Education and Experience

• University degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field
• Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered
• 4–6 years of progressive experience in Total Rewards, including compensation, benefits administration, and disability management
• Experience in a unionized and/or public sector environment preferred

Required Skills/Knowledge

• Strong knowledge of compensation, job evaluation, and benefits principles
• Working knowledge of disability management, WSIB, and applicable legislation (ESA, OHSA, Human Rights)
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with advanced Excel capabilities
• Experience with HRIS systems (e.g., SAP, Parklane)
• Ability to manage complex, sensitive, and confidential matters with sound judgment
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities
• Effective communication, stakeholder management, and customer service skills
• Ability to identify trends and provide data-driven recommendations

Leadership Competencies