Direct Support Worker

Job summary

The Direct Support Worker will actively engage with children and youth through physical activities, mentorship, and daily enrichment planning. They are responsible for providing trauma-informed care, managing behaviors, and attending to the physical, emotional, and medical needs of the individuals in care.

Job details

New Directions is a social service agency offering a wide range of resources and services that foster people’s hopes and dreams in their communities. Child Home Services (CHS) is one of the many programs offered by New Directions. This service area offers a range of home supports (i.e., family supports, foster home, group care homes, individualized homes, independent living, mentored living) to children, youth, and families who are dealing with challenges related to the experience of trauma and/or living with a disability. Our community-based resources are designed to support connection with family and community, a sense of belonging, and provide opportunities to engage in a meaningful life. Position Overview: We are seeking a high-energy, compassionate, and proactive Youth Care Worker to support children and youth in care. This role is designed for someone who thrives in a dynamic environment and understands the importance of building safe, nurturing relationships with school-aged children. You won't just be supervising; you will be an active participant in their daily growth, helping them navigate social-emotional challenges through play, structure, and mentorship. Position details as follows: Due to specific support needs at this time, preference will be given to female-presenting applicants. (Schedule is subject to change) SATURDAYSUNDAYMONDAYTUESDAYWEDNESDAYTHURSDAYFRIDAYWEEK 1OFF OFF 7AM-3PM 7AM-3PM 7AM-3PM 7AM-3PM OFF WEEK 27AM-3PM 7AM-3PM 7AM-3PM OFF 7AM-3PM 7AM-3PM 7AM-3PM Key Responsibilities: * Active Engagement: Lead and participate in physical activities, sports, and outdoor play to promote healthy development and energy outlets. * Creative Initiative: Independently plan and execute daily enrichment activities, such as arts and crafts, educational games, and skill-building projects. * Nurturing Support: Provide a warm, stable presence for children, using trauma-informed care and positive reinforcement to manage behaviors and build self-esteem. * Attend to the physical, emotional, and medical needs of the children or youth * Administer medication in accordance with established policies and procedures. * Assist with personal care routines and be comfortable with changing briefs * Life Skills Mentorship: Assist children with homework, personal hygiene routines, and social cues in a way that encourages independence. * Environmental Safety: Maintain a clean, organized, and stimulating environment that meets all safety standards for young children. * Ensure health and safety standards are maintained. * Ensure that all required documentation is complete and accurate Qualifications: * A natural ability to connect with children and a high level of patience. * Strong physical stamina to keep up with active children and youth. * Demonstrated initiative—you are a "self-starter" who doesn't wait for a task list to engage with the kids. * High School Diploma or equivalent. Preference will be given to candidates with post-secondary education in the area(s) of Youth Care Worker. * Minimum two (2) years’ experience working with youth with intellectual and/or cognitive disabilities. Varying experience and education may be considered. * Health Care Aide certification would be considered an asset. * Excellent written and verbal communication skills. * Strong awareness of Indigenous cultures, history, and the unique needs of Indigenous communities. * American Sign Language (ASL) skills preferred; willingness to learn and develop communication skills required. * Strong understanding of ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder), and FASD (Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder) and a commitment to person-led care, routine structure and adaptive communication. * Demonstrated understanding of Trauma Informed Care and Circle of Security considered assets. * A valid Class 5 driver’s license is a requirement for this position. * Ability to swim is considered an asset. * Scheduled hours can include days, evenings, weekends and awake overnights. The salary range for this Full-time, 80-hour bi-weekly position is $17.32 to $23.38 per hour (equivalent to $36,033.71 - $48,648.70 per annum) dependent upon education and/or experience. This position is eligible for a full benefit package (which includes Health and Dental Benefits, Long Term Disability Benefits, and a Pension Plan). The successful candidate will be subject to Criminal Record Check, Adult and Child Abuse Registry Check, Prior Contact Checks; and must supply a satisfactory driver’s safety rating. The closing date for all applications October 13th, 2026 We thank all applicants for their interest in New Directions, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Unfortunately, we cannot accept telephone inquiries. New Directions is committed to equity and diversity and especially welcomes applications from persons of all sexual orientations and gender identities, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, visible minorities, and newcomers to Canada. We strive for a skilled workforce that reflects the diversity of the people we support and contributes to the diversification of ideas. Accommodations for accessibility purposes are available for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process.

What you’ll do

The Direct Support Worker will actively engage with children and youth through physical activities, mentorship, and daily enrichment planning. They are responsible for providing trauma-informed care, managing behaviors, and attending to the physical, emotional, and medical needs of the individuals in care.

Requirements

Candidates must have a high school diploma, with preference given to those with post-secondary education in Youth Care. A minimum of two years of experience working with youth with intellectual or cognitive disabilities and a valid Class 5 driver's license are required.

Benefits

• Health benefits
• Dental benefits
• Long term disability benefits
• Pension plan

Listed skills

• Personal Care · Preferred
• Communication Skills · Preferred
• Physical stamina · Preferred
• Documentation · Preferred

Other relevant skills

Identified from the job description. Confirm important requirements above.

• Trauma-informed care
• Youth mentorship
• Behavior management
• Personal care
• Medication administration
• Active engagement
• Life skills training
• Communication skills
• Autism spectrum disorder knowledge
• Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder knowledge
• American sign language
• Physical stamina
• Documentation
• Safety standards
• Positive reinforcement
• Cultural awareness

Job areas

• Social Services
• Healthcare
• Education

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