I think of separation as kind of a trial divorce period. It feels like: I don't think I want to have a relationship with you any more, IDK, and I know I don't want to share. He throws in the added loop of, but I want to keep living with you. It's rather mixed messages.
The main area I'd heard of this type of legal separation was in situations where neither party could afford to live on their own. That doesn't sound like the case w Mr. CA.
IMHO, it really does sound like he's trying to force CAgirl into doing as he wants (getting a job) and doesn't like how long its taking to line up a job, which may take time in the current economic climate.