We are seeking recent graduates and emerging professionals with educational backgrounds in Sociology, Psychology, and related fields who are interested in building a meaningful career supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities and growing into future leadership or specialized support roles.
This position offers hands‑on experience, structured training, mentorship, and exposure to person‑centered planning, team collaboration, and community‑based program delivery.
Why Start Your Career at Cosmopolitan Industries Ltd.
As a Direct Support Worker at Cosmo, you will:
- Build foundational skills in behavioural supports, communication, documentation, and coaching
- Learn to apply psychology and human‑centred principles in real‑world settings
- Work alongside experienced coordinators and supervisors who support professional growth
- Gain exposure to planning, observation, reporting, and decision‑making processes
- Be considered for cross‑training and internal advancement opportunities as skills develop
Job Title: Direct Support Worker
Job Summary:
Upholding the values and mission of Cosmopolitan Industries Ltd. the Direct Support Worker is responsible for planning and providing individualized support and/or to facilitate group activities for program participants. By following established person-centered plans, the support they provide assists participants to maximize their potential and contributes to a positive quality of life. Program options are both community and agency-based. He/she acts as a role model and an advocate for program participants as well as an ambassador for the company. The role of the Direct Support Worker is vital in achieving agency goals and supporting individuals that choose Cosmo as part of their person- centered plan.
Duties and Responsibilities:
1. Accompany and support program participants, on a 1:1 basis or in small groups, to participate in community- based programs such as supported work, volunteer work, fitness and leisure, recreation activities, community events etc. Develop coaching strategies and training opportunities that will aide individuals in learning new skills that will strengthen their job performance and independence (including utilizing city transit system).
2. Offer guidance and support that will encourage independence and assist participants in achieving their personal goals.
3. Provide feedback for Person-Centered Plans and Comprehensive Behaviour Support Plans; monitor plans for relevance and participation and report any concerns to the Program Coordinator.
4. Develop effective working relationships with all staff and program participants to ensure a respectful and positive work environment.
5. Prepare documentation and reports as required by Cosmopolitan Industries Ltd.
6. Participate as an active team member (communication, coverage during staff shortages etc.).
7. Provide physical and/or personal support to participants as necessary.
8. Provide transportation to and from community-based programs.
9. Administer and record use of prescribed medication as necessary.
10. Ensure the maintenance and care of all necessary equipment and supplies.
11. Cross-train for other duties/positions as deemed necessary.
12. Other duties as assigned.
Working Conditions:
- Works both indoors and outdoors
- Environment may expose workers to extreme heat/cold, paper dust, chemicals, diesel fumes, unusual/strong odors and/or contaminated materials/products; pet rabbits, birds and fish; visiting therapy animals e.g. dogs
- Exposure to volatile situations that have the potential to escalate to verbal and/or physical altercation may occur
- Works alone with program participants in the community and during transport
- Schedules may not provide for scheduled breaks
Skills, Effort and Competencies:
Must provide a satisfactory Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Check prior to employment.
Education
Disability Support Worker Certificate or equivalent training in a related field.
Qualifications
Valid Saskatchewan Driver’s license; must maintain a driving record that is acceptable to Cosmopolitan Industries Ltd.
Mandt® Training or Crisis Intervention Training considered an asset.
Experience
Experience providing support to persons with intellectual disabilities is preferred.
Communication Skills
Ability to comprehend and communicate detailed instructions both orally and in writing is essential. Consistent demonstration of dignity and respect when interacting with others.
Physical Demands
Long periods or standing or walking may be required; may be required to physically assist persons using a wheelchair; ability to lift up to 50 pounds may be required.
Mental Demands
High level of independent judgement and reasoning ability. Ability to work well under pressure. Ability to multi-task and establish priorities in a changing environment. Strong problem solving ability.
Other
Ability to work independently as well as part of a team. Excellent time management. Ability and willingness to change schedule/assignments without notice. Willingness to participate in and apply relevant training as requested/required by
Cosmopolitan Industries Ltd.
Wages indicated are starting rates based on education and experience.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $19.28-$26.09 per hour
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- Dental care
- Employee assistance program
- Extended health care
- Flexible schedule
- Life insurance
- On-site parking
- Paid time off
- Vision care
Application question(s):
- Have you graduated with a degree in sociology?
- Do you have a vehicle of your own?
Licence/Certification:
- Saskatchewan Class 5 driver's license (required)
Location:
- Saskatoon, SK (preferred)
Work Location: In person
