Nicole Smith
Gatineau,QC
Summary
Regulatory expert with extensive experience in interpreting, applying, and advising on federal legislation, including OHS and labor-related statutes.
Overview
2026
2026
years of professional experience
Work History
Program Advisor, OHS
ESDC - Labour Program
Gatineau, QC
2020 - Current
- Provide technical advice on OHS program issues to stakeholders and senior management.
- Prepare and delivered presentations on OHS program requirements to various audiences.
- Lead initiatives on Harassment and Violence Prevention Regulations, advising senior management and field staff.
- Coordinate engagement with Regulatory Partners to enhance national OHS program delivery.
- Develop high-quality briefing materials for senior government officials, including the Minister.
- Actively participate in Work Place Harassment and Violence Prevention Working Group.
- Conduct research and analysis of policies and regulations to inform program decisions.
- Manage high-level meetings, overseeing agenda setting, coordination, and documentation.
Program Consultant, OHS
ESDC - Labour Program
Gatineau, QC
2017 - 2020
- Led development of OHS quarterly dashboard, updating metrics and delivering trend analysis to senior management.
- Prepared COVID-19-related infectious disease documents for Labour Program and Regulatory Partners.
- Reviewed and resolved service delivery issues to ensure consistent national program implementation.
- Created and updated Operational Program Directives for Labour Program staff and Regional Partners.
- Drafted briefing notes for Assistant Deputy Minister, Deputy Minister, and Minister, ensuring accuracy and alignment with departmental priorities.
- Compiled Briefings and Question Period cards for Minister of Labour to support Parliamentary and Cabinet Affairs.
- Consulted with internal and external stakeholders regarding upcoming legislative changes and enhancements.
Occupational Health and Safety Officer (HSO)
ESDC - Labour Program
Regina, Saskatchewan
2013 - 2017
- Conducted inspections of federally regulated employers for compliance with Canada Labour Code Part II and Occupational Health & Safety Regulations.
- Issued written compliance instruments and monitored employer adherence to corrective measures.
- Delivered presentations and outreach sessions on Canada Labour Code and Health and Safety Regulations to employer groups.
- Investigated workplace injuries and fatalities, documenting findings and recommending necessary corrective actions.
- Maintained accurate client files with timely updates, ensuring follow-ups for clarity and compliance.
- Entered and analyzed Hazardous Occurrence Investigation Reports in databases to identify trends and emerging issues.
- Developed annual inspection plans utilizing injury and hazard data to prioritize high-risk industries for enforcement.
Service Canada Benefits Officer (SCBO)
ESDC - Service Canada
Regina, Saskatchewan
2013 - 2014
- Investigated and adjudicated complex Employment Insurance (EI) applications, ensuring compliance with regulations.
- Analyzed case information utilizing Employment Insurance Act, Regulations, and Benefits Manual for accurate decision-making.
- Conducted detailed interviews with employers, unions, and claimants to assess eligibility and resolve discrepancies.
- Prepared formal correspondence to applicants and employers regarding decisions and required documentation.
- Provided comprehensive explanations of entitlement and legislative requirements to claimants and employers.
Payment Services Officer
ESDC - Service Canada
Regina, Saskatchewan
2010 - 2013
- Advised clients and stakeholders on Service Canada programs, services, and benefits.
- Processed client requests to amend records, validate documents, and resolve discrepancies.
- Conducted interviews with clients to assess needs and determine suitable service offerings.
- Managed benefit transactions by issuing, redirecting, or recalling payments per policy rules.
- Administered oaths and completed affidavits to fulfill program requirements.
- Coached entry-level agents on call handling and transition to core duties.
- Provided operational insights and feedback to management for continuous improvement.
- Mentored new coaches in preparing reports and supporting new PSOs.
Education
Advanced Diploma - Biotechnology
Durham College
Oshawa, ON01-2006
Skills
- Regulatory compliance
- Investigations and enforcement
- Briefing preparation
- Stakeholder engagement
- Effective presentation
- Occupational health and safety
- Workplace harassment and violence
- Interdepartmental collaboration
Completed Training
- Canada Labour Code – Basic Part II Training
- RCMP Law Enforcement Investigators Course Level 1
- RCMP Law Enforcement Investigators Course Level 2
- Accident and Investigation and Analysis Techniques
- Legislated Fire Safety Training
- Soft Skills
- Jurisdiction Determination (Federal vs. Provincial)
- Indigenous Awareness
- Orientation to Regulation
Timeline
Program Advisor, OHS
ESDC - Labour Program
2020 - Current
Program Consultant, OHS
ESDC - Labour Program
2017 - 2020
Occupational Health and Safety Officer (HSO)
ESDC - Labour Program
2013 - 2017
Service Canada Benefits Officer (SCBO)
ESDC - Service Canada
2013 - 2014
Payment Services Officer
ESDC - Service Canada
2010 - 2013
Advanced Diploma - Biotechnology
Durham College