Autism Support Specialist

POSITION SUMMARY:
SERVICE AREA: Community Services
AGE GROUP SUPPORTED: Children or Youth under 18 years old
POSITION STATUS: Permanent Full-Time
HOURS OF WORK: 37.5 hours per week (Days/Evening/Weekends; Flexibility required)
HOURLY PAY RATE: $29.12 per hour
UNION AFFILIATION: Non-Union
THIS POSITION IS OPEN TO: Internal and External Applicants

Are you seeking a rewarding career that promotes continuous learning and daily engagement?
At Kerry's Place, we strive to improve the quality of life for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) through our dedicated team of professionals. Our commitment to ongoing training and development ensures that every day presents new opportunities for growth and adventure.

Why Consider Joining Our Team?

We provide an exceptional compensation package with a strong emphasis on health and wellness. Our offerings include:

• 4 Weeks of Paid Vacation annually
• Additional 2 Paid Flex Days each year
• Employer-Paid Group Benefits Program
• Employer Matched Pension Program (3% employer match)
• Registered Retirement Savings Plan (optional)
• Employee and Family Assistance Program
• Employer-Paid Training Programs
• Tuition Assistance Program
• Corporate Membership discount for fitness facilities
• Opportunities for Career Development & Internal Growth

Role Overview:

Under the supervision of the Manager, Services and Supports, the Autism Consultant plays a vital role in delivering assistance to individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), their families, and the broader community. A significant aspect of this position involves enhancing community capacity to empower families and communities with the knowledge and skills necessary to support individuals with ASD in various life domains. Key responsibilities include:

• Upholding the Community Services Practices aligned with Kerry's Place Mission Statement, Vision, and Values.
• Providing a comprehensive range of services, including consultation for individuals, families, agencies, and community groups, as well as developing and leading workshops.
• Facilitating family support initiatives such as Family Support Groups, Sibling Groups, and social gatherings for children and adults.
• Collaborating with various agencies and community organizations while supporting the community services team.
• Coordinating services formally or informally as needed.
• Delivering direct support to individuals with ASD through one-on-one teaching sessions, group activities, workshops, and the creation and execution of teaching strategies across different environments (e.g., home, school, community).
• Acting as a liaison with families, community groups, and partner agencies in a professional manner.
• Building community capacity through formal and informal methods, including the development and delivery of workshops for families and community organizations, educating and supporting others in understanding individuals with ASD and effective support strategies.

Qualifications:

• Post-secondary education in Human/Social Services.
Experience and Knowledge Requirements:
• Minimum of 1 year of experience working with individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder or developmental disabilities in a community setting, along with experience collaborating with families and community agencies.
• Strong knowledge and experience in supporting individuals with ASD in community contexts.
• In-depth understanding of the principles of supporting individuals within family units and their communities.
• Familiarity with local communities and available resources.
• Understanding of family dynamics, including grief processes and sibling issues, as well as the importance of family support for long-term capacity building.
• Basic knowledge of relevant legislation and responsibilities under the Child and Family Services Act and the Services and Supports to Promote the Social Inclusion of Persons with Developmental Disabilities Act.
• Practical experience with effective support strategies for children and adults with ASD (e.g., social stories, sensory needs, communication aids, applied behavior analysis, environmental modifications).
• Ability to develop and implement support strategies, model these approaches for family members, and provide ongoing practical and emotional support to families and individuals with ASD.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in French is considered an asset.

Working Conditions:
• Must be capable of physically supporting children and youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
• Must be able to complete Non-Violent Crisis Intervention (NVCI) certification and perform required physical techniques; training will be provided at no cost.
• A valid Driver's License with a minimum G2 and access to a reliable vehicle is required.

Kerry's Place is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusivity in the workplace, welcoming applications from all qualified individuals. We are also dedicated to providing accommodations for persons with disabilities and will work with you to meet your needs.

We appreciate all applicants for their interest in Kerry's Place Autism Services. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.