As a Supervisor in Disability Management within the Department of National Defence, you will lead and support a team dedicated to helping employees manage workplace disabilities and return to work successfully. You will oversee the development and implementation of disability management programs, policies, and initiatives that promote an inclusive workplace while supporting both employees and the organization's operational needs. This role bridges human resources strategy with practical employee support, ensuring DND maintains a diverse and healthy workforce. You will work collaboratively with occupational health services, labour relations, management, and employees to create accommodation solutions and facilitate successful workplace reintegration. Your work directly contributes to DND's commitment to being an employer of choice and supporting the wellbeing of Canadian Armed Forces and civilian personnel.
Key Responsibilities
Coordinate and oversee daily disability management operations, Assign work, monitor progress, and provide guidance to team members, Review work products for quality and compliance with standards, Contribute to operational planning and process improvement
Required Skills
HR policy interpretation, Interpersonal skills, Staffing and classification, Conflict resolution, Labour relations knowledge, Team supervision, Work coordination, Quality control, Staff development
Typical Education
Post-secondary diploma or degree; experience in the relevant technical or functional area
Training
Candidates typically hold a bachelor's degree in human resources management, occupational health and safety, psychology, social work, or a related field. Many successful supervisors in this role have additional certifications such as Certified Disability Management professional (CDMP), Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC), or equivalent credentials recognized by provincial disability management associations. Professional development opportunities include training in accommodation practices, return-to-work program design, employment standards legislation, and leadership skills. DND supports ongoing learning through the Public Service Learning Portal, professional association memberships, and specialized workshops in disability management, human rights law, and inclusive workplace practices. Experience in case management, employee counseling, or occupational rehabilitation is valuable.
Entry Plans
Entry into this supervisor role typically occurs through federal public service competitions open to Canadian citizens. Many candidates progress to the supervisor level after working in related positions such as Disability Management Advisor, Human Resources Advisor, or Rehabilitation Counselor within the federal public service. DND participates in the Public Service Commission's staffing processes, including merit-based competitions and internal priority consideration for current federal employees. Some appointments occur through lateral moves from other departments or agencies with established disability management programs. Recent graduates or professionals new to the federal public service may enter at lower classification levels (such as AS-02 or AS-03) and advance to supervisory positions through competitions as experience is gained. Contract and term positions are occasionally available and can lead to permanent appointments.
Part-Time Options
Supervisor positions in Disability Management are typically full-time roles requiring regular presence for team leadership and stakeholder coordination. However, the federal public service offers flexible work arrangements that may be available depending on operational requirements and DND policies. These can include compressed work weeks, flexible hours, or a combination of remote and in-office work, particularly for administrative duties and case file management. Remote work options have expanded across DND, and supervisors may be able to conduct virtual meetings with employees, medical professionals, and team members. Requests for part-time or job-sharing arrangements are considered on a case-by-case basis and must be approved by management based on business needs. Part-time and casual positions at lower classification levels within disability management teams may also be available and could serve as entry points to the federal public service.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
