Disability Benefits Navigator

Do you want to make a difference in the lives of Canadians living with vision loss?

Vision Loss Rehabilitation Canada (VLRC) is a national health services organization dedicated to empowering people who are blind or partially sighted to live safely and independently.

Our certified specialists provide client-centered rehabilitation, mobility training, and daily living skills programs that help clients build confidence and thrive. We work collaboratively with ophthalmologists, optometrists, and other health care professionals, offering essential care on a referral basis in homes, workplaces, and communities across the country. We value our employees as our greatest asset — and we’re committed to supporting their well-being, professional growth, and work-life balance. Learn more about VLRC at visionlossrehab.ca or call 1-844-887-8572.

Position Title: Disability Benefits Navigator - GAIN (Guidance & Assistance in Navigating Disability Support) Program

Location: Any VLRC office in Canada

Status: Full-time, Permanent; existing vacancy

Reports To: NationalManager, Federal and Contracted Services

Compensation: $34.03/hour

Posting Date: July 15, 2026

Closing Date: July 31, 2026

How to Apply: Internal applicants, email resume and interest to janice.rego@vlrehab.ca, External applicants, kindly submit application through our Careers page at visionlossrehab.ca

I. Scope and Summary of Primary Responsibilities

The Disability Benefits Navigator – GAIN Program (DBN – GAIN) plays a pivotal role in increasing access to disability benefits and supports for individuals with disabilities, with a specific focus on persons living with vision loss. As the dedicated point of contact, the DBN -GAIN will help individuals and their families navigate federal, provincial, and territorial disability benefits such as the Disability Tax Credit (DTC), Canada Disability Benefit (CDB) and related supports.

The DBN - GAIN provides personalized, one-on-one support throughout the application process, including appeals, and ensures timely connection to healthcare services and community supports. This role helps clients overcome barriers by tailoring assistance to their unique needs, enhancing independence, and improving overall well-being.

The DBN - GAIN will strive to ensure that every person referred to VLR for service has timely access to VLR service information, connection to the healthcare system and appropriate supports when and where they need it to achieve the following outcomes:

• To provide individuals with vision loss, healthcare navigation to navigate efficiently through the platform.
• To improve the client's experience and wellbeing.
• To enhance a client's capacity to remain independent for as long as possible.

Requirements

This position entails, but is not limited to the following general responsibilities:

• Provide individualized support to clients and families applying for disability benefits, including understanding eligibility criteria, completing forms and coordinating documentation.
• Assist clients with application tracking, follow-ups and appeals where needed.
• Maintain accurate, up-to-date knowledge of benefit programs and share updates with the team and community stakeholders.
• Participate in client satisfaction, program feedback and quality improvement efforts.
• Monitor and provide proactive follow-up for clients to ensure ongoing collaboration across services/providers.
• Ensures that all service-related activities provided are documented in the client health record following VLRC policies.
• Engage with clients and families on available supports and services using a client-centered approach with cultural humility.
• Develop and maintain strong professional relationships with external partners and referral sources following VLRC policies.
• Participates in multi-disciplinary team meetings.

III. Qualifications
Knowledge and Skill Requirements

• In-depth understanding of disability benefits programs (e.g. DTC, CDB)
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills; strong ability to explain complex processes clearly.
• Proficiency in case management systems, MS Office, and electronic health records.
• Strong organizational, problem-solving, and advocacy skills.
• Clinical expertise related to client centered philosophy, knowledge of intersectional equity principles and cultural safety practices.
• Ability to prioritize tasks, and work independently or as part of a team.

Experience and Education

• Post-secondary diploma in Social Services, Disability Studies, Community Work, or related field.
• 2+ years’ experience in client navigation, healthcare or social service systems.
• Experience supporting people with disabilities, especially those with vision loss.
• Lived or professional experience working with diverse populations, including Indigenous, 2SLGBTQIA+, newcomers etc.
• Certificate in Patient Navigation, trauma-informed care, motivational interviewing, or health equity would be an asset.

Work Environment

• Willingness to work flexible hours.
• Willingness to work in a variety of settings.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a remote or hybrid environment.

Benefits

At VLRC, your work has real impact. Join a team that empowers Canadians with vision loss to live independently, and where your growth, well-being, and contributions matter. We offer:

· Comprehensive benefits, including health, vision, dental, corporate discounts, and an employee and family assistance program

• Flexible work arrangements, generous paid time off, and work-life balance initiatives
• Career development through training, mentorship, and advancement opportunities

· Inclusive work culture with supportive teams, employee recognition, a joy-in-work wellness program, and mental health supports

Join us to grow your career and make a difference every day.

Inclusion, Accessibility & Accommodation
VLRC is committed to creating and maintaining an inclusive, equitable, and accessible workplace. We welcome applications from members of groups that have been historically marginalized, including but not limited to Indigenous peoples, racialized persons, persons with disabilities, including people who are blind, partially sighted, or deafblind, women, and 2SLGBTQ+ communities. We strongly encourage people with sight loss to apply. Direct lived experience is valued as an asset. The successful candidate may be required to complete a Vulnerable Sector Check, depending on the role.

If you require an accommodation to apply or participate in the selection process, please contact janice.rego@vlrehab.ca. We’ll be happy to work with you to meet your needs.

Not sure if you qualify? Think about applying anyway!
We understand that not everyone brings 100% of the skills and experience for the role. If you bring passion, transferable skills, and a desire to make a difference, we encourage you to apply! VLRC does not use AI tools in its screening, assessment, or selection process.

Hiring Process
Candidates selected to move forward may be invited to participate in interviews, assessments, reference checks, and/or background checks, depending on the role.

We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.