Community Living Coach

**UNDERSTANDING - ACCEPTANCE - INCLUSION - COURAGE**

**About Autism Nova Scotia**

Autism Nova Scotia is a national leader in providing social, educational, and employment supports for people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), their families, caregivers, and professionals. Our vision is a society where people with ASD can live their lives to the fullest. This vision informs our day-to-day operations and provides a philosophy that revolves around person-focused supports, strength-based approaches, and community-oriented learning opportunities.

Autism Nova Scotia delivers programming in Halifax and in nine communities across Nova Scotia through our Regional Autism Centers. Our three program divisions are: Social & Community Inclusion; Employment Support; and Family and Caregiver Support.

**POSITION TITLE**:Community Living Coach - within the ILS Program (Casual)

**POSITION**: Casual up to - 40 hours a week (weekend and evening availability required)

**LOCATION**:Throughout HRM community depending on participant locations. Office location: Bedford, Nova Scotia

**SALARY**:$20 per hour

**HOURS PER WEEK**:Up to 40 hours per week depending on the support needs of the individual

**DIRECT REPORT**: ILS Coordinator

**Program Summary**:
The Community Living Coach works directly with individuals and families who are accessing the ILS program. The ILS Coordinator provides individualized support with Autistic adults who set their own goals in living independently.

**What we are looking for...**

A team player who is interested in enhancing their communication and leadership skills while gaining valuable employment experience.

**EDUCATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS**
- Degree/Diploma in Human/Social Services field or currently enrolled, relevant experience will be considered
- 1-3 years of recent experience working with Autistic adults considered an asset.

**KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES**:

- Have knowledge of autism.
- Demonstrates knowledge and understanding of person directed framework, evidence informed practices and natural environmental teaching strategies.
- Demonstrates an understanding of the social model of disability and/or critical disability studies.
- Experience working within community-based programs preferred.
- Familiar with Microsoft Office programs.
- Demonstrates excellent observation and problem-solving skills, required.
- Demonstrates the ability to take direction and work independently.
- Demonstrates the understanding of the limits of competency, required.
- Applies knowledge of community-based service delivery systems.
- A valid Nova Scotia driver’s license and clean driving record.
- Access reliable to transportation
- Proof of Vaccination required.

**ROLE AND QUALIFICATIONS**:

- Hold current ASIST certification (within 2 years). If not trained upon hire, individual successful in attaining position will be trained internally within ANS.
- Trained in the 7 Core Competencies from DCS: Fire and Life Safety, Personal Care, Medication Awareness, Individual Program Planning, Crisis Intervention, Behavioural Supports, Standard First Aid/CPR-C, and food handler’s certificate. If not currently trained then individual successful in attaining position will be trained by ANS staff upon hire.
- Maintain physical records pertaining to ILS participant support
- Provide site visits with ILS participants based on the hours and areas that they want support.
- Build a trusting professional relationship with participant and family creating a positive space to support ILS goals
- Regularly checking in with ILS participants to ensure quality of support.
- Provide regular and timely coaching support updates to the ILS Coordinator
- Collaborate with the ILS Coordinator and ILS Supervisor as well as external community organizations (DCS), health organizations etc.

**OTHER RELEVANT SKILLS**:

- Demonstrates excellent communication, interpersonal skills and the ability to work as part of an interdisciplinary team in a variety of settings required.
- Competencies in other languages an asset; French or Arabic preferred.
- Adherence to a high ethical standard of support for any person living with autism; respecting individuals right to be treated with dignity and respect; high discretion & respect for confidentiality a must.
- Maintenance of regular and effective communication with individuals and families living with autism, as well as AutismNS team members and direct supervisors.
- Fostering positive community partnerships and connection around the organizations program and services.
- Performance of other related duties as required.

**Job Type**: Casual

**Salary**: $20.00 per hour

Flexible Language Requirement:

- French not required

Schedule:

- Day shift
- Night shift
- Weekend availability

Application question(s):

- As a proof of vaccination organization, are you fully vaccinated against COVID-19?
- Do you have knowledge and experience working with Autistic individuals and individuals on the autism s