Overview
Our organization provides specialized residential care for adults and/or children within the developmental services sector. We provide behavioral supervision and support mostly for people who are dual diagnosed (e.g., developmental need and a mental health issue).
A typical residence or “program” includes between two to four clients who are supported by direct support workers. (We also support clients who are living independently or in family homes.) Staff-to-client ratios vary based on client needs; most of our clients receive supervision and support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. As such, most of our programs are considered continuous operations.
The Direct Support Worker (DSW) is accountable for efficient and effective day-to-day developmental support and personal care for residents. The position reports to the Program Supervisor.
The DSW’s mandate is to help residents achieve their development goals with dignity. Within that mandate, the Director is accountable for creating the conditions that result in:
- Quality care and professional delivery of development support services
- A work environment that prioritizes health and safety, accountability, and personal development
The Direct Support Worker interacts primarily with residents, other DSWs, the Shift Leader, and the Program Supervisor.
The DSW must maintain a thorough understanding and knowledge of the organization’s operating policies and practices and desired culture, including a focus on inclusion, equity, and diversity.
Qualifications
- Post-secondary degree in the social services field (e.g., Social Service Worker, Developmental Services Worker, Child and Youth Worker)
- Minimum of five (5) years’ experience in the social services field, particularly in residential treatment for developmental adults and/or children with complex developmental needs, autism spectrum disorder, schizophrenic spectrum disorders, mental illness, and dual diagnosis
- Experience and sound knowledge of MCCSS guidelines and Quality Assurance Management (QAM) requirements for the licensing of residential programs is an asset
Other qualifications:
- Valid G-class driver’s license and insurance
- Government-regulated certifications (e.g., Occupational Health & Safety and Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities)
- Certification in Safe Management Group Crisis Intervention (SMG) or Understanding Managing Aggressive Behaviour (UMAB), as applicable (must complete and maintain)
- Current CPR Level C / First Aid certification
- Acceptable results from Criminal Background Check, Broad Sector Check, and/or Vulnerable Sector Screening, as applicable
- Proven experience delivering on the responsibilities outlined below
Value Drivers
The following outcomes reflect the performance of the DSW:
- Positive QAM and licensing reviews from MCCSS
- Proactive identification and resolution of organizational risks
- Residents’ successful achievement of developmental goals
ResponsibilitiesA. Ensure quality care and professional delivery of development support services
Service Quality
- Ensure BSPs, QAM and MCCSS requirements, organizational policies, SMG or UMAB training, and Behavioural/Crisis Protocols are understood and consistently applied
- Implement BSPs, providing hands-on care and supporting daily living activities (personal hygiene, nutrition, medicine administration, etc.)
- Promote community inclusion, independence, and self-determination
- Support clients with social skills, communication, education, vocation, training, and leisure activities
- Encourage self-expression, using both verbal and non-verbal/alternative communication systems
- Apply behaviour techniques, interventions, and problem-solving skills collaboratively with teams and families
- Participate in case conferences, progress reports, BSP and ISP meetings
- Maintain clean, safe, and healthy residences; escalate maintenance issues as needed
- Transport clients safely per Ministry of Transportation and organizational policy
- Identify and mitigate risks, informing the Program Supervisor as appropriate
- Actively participate in training and staff meetings
Administration & Compliance
- Consistently follow QAM, Behavioural and Crisis Protocols
- Document client progress, assessments, and reports accurately and on time
- Prepare incident reports (IRs) and Serious Occurrence Reports (SORs) professionally and promptly
- Maintain daily reports, logbooks, timesheets, payroll records, and attendance records accurately
- Report complaints, risks, or concerns thoroughly and promptly
- Contribute to health & safety compliance documentation as required
B. Create conditions for a healthy and safe work environment
Work Environment
- Foster and role model a culture of respect, professionalism, dignity, compassion, accountability, and safety
- Adhere to scheduling requirements; submit timecards and expenses weekly/bi-weekly
- Support the Program Supervisor in managing resident Personal Needs Allowances (PNA)
- Represent the organization as a preferred provider of developmental services
- Build positive relationships with residents, families, staff, and stakeholders
Compliance
- Adhere to HR policies, procedures, legislation, and Ministry Health & Safety standards
- Maintain up-to-date certifications and HR data
C. All other responsibilities as required to help residents achieve their development goals with dignityRequired Capabilities
- Commitment to the organization’s vision, mission, and core values
- Ability to work collaboratively in an interdisciplinary team and independently with clients
- Strong organizational, planning, and coordination skills
- Alertness and observational skills in residential settings
- Strong English oral and written communication skills
- Sound crisis management abilities
- Basic computer proficiency
- Knowledge and practice of current QAM requirements
Work Conditions
- Shifts may include evenings, weekends, and holidays
- Physical and emotional fitness to:
- Kneel, squat, bend, twist regularly
- Lift and/or move up to 50 lbs regularly
- Perform firm grasping tasks regularly
- Engage in full range of motion for mobility
- Participate in physical intervention/containment as required
- Calmly manage aggressive client behaviour, potentially multiple times daily
Key Responsibilities (Summary)
- Implement BSPs and assist with daily living activities
- Promote independence, inclusion, and personal goal achievement
- Provide personal care with dignity and respect
- Support communication and self-expression using multiple methods
- Accurately document and report client progress
- Apply behavioural techniques and interventions
- Conduct observations, assessments, and reports
- Facilitate clients’ participation in social, educational, and community activities
- Maintain a clean, safe, and welcoming environment
Compensation
- Hourly Rate: $24.03 /hour
- Temporary Wage Enhancement: Additional $3.00/hour
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Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: $27.03 per hour
Education:
Experience:
- developmental care: 1 year (preferred)
Licence/Certification:
- Class G Licence (required)
- Crisis Intervention Training (preferred)
Work Location: In person
