Job Details
Human Resources Advisor
Effective September 2026
Comox Valley School District is an inclusive learning community located on the east coast of Vancouver Island, within the traditional territory of the K’ómoks First Nation. Serving the communities of Courtenay, Comox, Cumberland, Denman Island and Hornby Island, our district is renowned for its vibrant arts scene, diverse cultural programs and abundant outdoor recreation opportunities. The Comox Valley is a desirable place to live with great ocean beaches, golf, skiing, hiking, swimming and boating. In addition, the community has strong and vibrant arts and cultural programs.
We are a progressive district dedicated to developing responsible, engaged, compassionate and resilient lifelong learners. We embrace diversity, foster relationships, and empower all learners to have a positive impact on the world. We are the second largest employer in the Comox Valley with over 1900 employees and provide a comprehensive educational program to approximately 10,500 students from Strong Start to Grade 12 in 14 elementary schools, 1 middle school, 1 K-9 school, 3 secondary schools, 2 alternate schools, and a provincial on-line learning school. Our annual operating budget is roughly $140 million.
Please note this temporary position will end August 31, 2027 or upon return of the incumbent.
Reporting to the Manager of HR, the HR Advisor is responsible for providing a variety of HR services such as:
- Recruitment and job postings, FTE tracking and maintaining of employee databases
- Administering leaves and medical/disability claims
- Overseeing workplace medical accommodation requests and return to work processes
- Liaising with service providers and administering contract documents
- Supporting school/department supervisors with employee illness/injury matters
- Administering skills-based testing and seniority lists for unionized staff
- Supporting the department with HR system’s automation and process improvement, maintaining of HRIS databases, and providing technical assistance/training to HR staff and other users
- Performing employee data extraction and reporting for internal and external clients
- Representing the school district at local career fairs and online employer forums
- Ensuring compliance with legislation, employment laws and district policies/protocols
- Coordinating employee surveys, training and development initiatives and staff in-service
- Receiving and responding to job applicant/employee inquiries, doing research on HR-related matters, and performing other related duties as assigned.
The incumbent of this position is expected to maintain a high level of confidentiality and professionalism in all matters pertaining to the district and its employees; to multi-task, prioritize and manage numerous interruptions while handling a heavy workload; to perform a wide variety of HR tasks requiring independent judgment and involving employees with diverse needs at all levels of the organization, as well as the public.
The successful applicant will possess superior interpersonal skills, outstanding data management skills, and demonstrated abilities to be resourceful and adaptable in a complex and changing environment The ideal applicant will also possess:
- Formal post-secondary education/training in HR or related discipline
- 5+ years of HR generalist experience
- CPHR designation, or working toward it, is preferred
- Expert level of computer proficiency using HRIS and Microsoft Office software
- A track record of superb client services skills
- Proven ability to identify clients/users’ needs and create training tools using various communication methods such as group presentations, online support, etc.
- Knowledgeable with employee surveys and social media tools to support employee engagement
- Demonstrated organizational skills and ability to adapt quickly to changing priorities
- Detail-oriented with excellent analytical skills
- Successful experience with change implementation and healthy conflict resolution
- Collaborative approach to problem solving and decision making in a unionized environment
- Excellent communication skills (both written and oral) and public relations skills
- Demonstrated ability to meet deadlines, to work independently as well as a member of a team
- Self-motivated with a passion for excellence and continuous improvement
- Proven ability to provide team leadership and be a positive role model
- An approachable demeanor with a balance of assertiveness and empathy
- An adaptable personal/professional style with a creative mindset and a sense of humor
- Knowledge of legislation affecting employers and employees, and successful experience implementing best practices in the field of human resources
- Public Sector experience would be an asset
To Apply:
School District 71 welcomes diverse candidates and encourages applications from members of groups experiencing barriers to equity. As an inclusive learning community we are committed to actively creating and fostering a culture of inclusivity where voices are heard, people are seen, and values are respected. We care about the uniqueness of our applicants, employees, students and community, and we do so in a safe space fueled by curiosity and acceptance. Persons with disabilities who anticipate needing accommodations for any part of the application and hiring process may contact: hr@sd71.bc.ca and we will work with you to meet your needs.
Qualified candidates are invited to apply in confidence by submitting a cover letter, resume with supporting documentation and three (3) professional references through www.makeafuture.ca/comox-valley. Only applicants with a complete application package may be considered.
We sincerely thank all applicants for considering us an employer of choice. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. The successful applicant will be subject to the terms of the Criminal Review Act.
Thank you for your interest in School District 71 (Comox Valley)
An Equal Opportunity Employer