Pension & Benefits

OCWA offers a competitive compensation package. The best way to get an idea of the total compensation package is to have a look at our job postings. A salary range is provided with each job posting, along with a general description of the benefits. OCWA employees are part of the Ontario Public Service (OPS).

Benefits can vary depending on whether the position is "permanent" or "temporary". Differences in benefits packages in the OPS also depend on the employee group to which you belong. If you are represented by a bargaining agent, your benefits are determined by a collective agreement. Temporary employees may receive a percentage of pay in lieu of benefits (see job postings for details).

Pension

At OCWA, we understand the importance of planning for life after retirement. There are two pension plans, the Ontario Public Service Pension Plan and the Ontario Public Service Employees Union Pension Plan. Both are contributory, defined benefit plans, where employees receive a pension at retirement, determined by salary and years of credit in the plan. Both the employees and the employer contribute to the pension plans.

Retirement can be one of the biggest decisions you make. We support employees through this process by:

  • Conducting information sessions
  • Offering Employee Assistant Programs to assist with financial decisions and to prepare employees for the change in lifestyle
  • Providing employees with updated information and checklists to start preparing early

Benefits

We recognize the importance of having a comprehensive benefits plan for employees.  Benefits can vary depending on whether the position is "permanent" or "temporary." Differences in benefits packages in the OPS also depend on the employee group to which you belong. Our benefit plans may include:

  • Medical, dental, hearing and vision care
  • Health care spending account
  • Defined Benefit Pension Plan
  • Vacation - You begin earning vacation credits when you join the OCWA, and the number of vacation days allocated increases with years of continuous service
  • Statutory holidays
  • Flexible learning and development opportunities
  • Maternity and parental leave top-up benefits, which includes adoptive parents
  • Self-funded leave
  • Sick days
  • Short-term and long-term disability
  • Life and disability insurance
  • Supplementary health and hospital care
  • Post-retirement benefits
  • Employee Assistance Program