Disability Services Worker, Full-time

**The Program**

Taproot Community Support Services (formerly WJS Canada) works to improve the lives of persons in their communities through a variety of programs and services.

Taproot Community Support Services Community Disability Services team in Westlock works to encourage persons with developmental disabilities and mental health challenges to build on their strengths, further develop life skills, overcome barriers and become involved in their community

**In Your Role You Will**
- Support individuals with household chores, life skills, personal hygiene (if needed).
- Provide supports as per the individual's care plan
- Provide immediate support in crisis situations and use de-escalation techniques to deal with behaviours
- Administer medication, first aid if/when necessary.
- Use computer program to write objective daily reports and document notes & observations regarding the client
- A complete and detailed list of key responsibilities can be available at time of interview.

**The Position**

The Disability Services Worker (DSW), under supervision of their supervisor, facilitates and monitors education and development programs for purposes of providing individuals in service with physical, behavioural, emotional and social supports/supervision in residence and in the community. DSWs develop relationships and act as a liaison with the community, family members, guardians and employers. This position reports to the Team Leader.

Scheduling:
One (1) full-time position that will work 30 hours per week.
- Shifts will be 0800-1800
- Two week rotation, working alternating weekend shifts

**ALLERGY ALERT: Cat in the program, therefore staff should have no allergies and be comfortable around cats.

Bona Fide Occupational Requirement: This is a gender-specific position based upon the behaviour and needs of the persons served.

**Mandatory Pre-Employment Screenings and Checks**

**Prior to confirmation of employment, all applicants must provide a copy of a current Criminal Record Check and/or Government Screening Letter. These checks vary depending on province and sector and will be communicated by the Program Hiring Team.**
- MUST be physically fit to assist with pushing a wheelchair and supporting lifts and transfers
- Minimum Grade 12 or Diploma/Degree in Disabilities Studies, Social Work, Human Services, Special Education, Recreation or equivalent
- A minimum of two (2) years working experience with persons with developmental disabilities is preferred.
- MANDATORY - A valid Class 5 Driver License with acceptable driving abstract and reliable vehicle
- A positive attitude and belief that persons with disabilities have the right / responsibility to define and pursue their life choices, and pursue active participation and involvement in the community.
- Skills in assisting individuals in anger management, daily living, self-help, etc.

ALSO helpful, but will train if needed:

- First Aid/CPR Certification
- Crisis Prevention Intervention, Medication Administration, Abuse Protocol, Proactive Procedures and Behavioural Strategies, Foundations and Disabilities Training
- Knowledge of basic health and safety rules and guidelines for personal health and safety, as appropriate.

**What Taproot Community Support Services Does**

We are a national social services agency, that provides community-based services to children and families, persons with developmental disabilities, at-risk youth and young offenders, designed to foster positive life changes and increase self-esteem. Over the past 30 years, we've grown to over 700 dedicated staff, in 3 provinces, who serve approximately 1,600 persons through over 125 services

**Our Employees Enjoy**

- Employer-paid Dental & Extended Health benefits - Regular wage increases at 6 months and 1 year employment.
- Staff training and opportunities to learn/work in a wide array of programs.
- An empowering balance of independence and supervision.
- Best practices programming and innovative care.

**Website reference**

For more information on Taproot Community Support Services visit our website: taproot.ca

**Closing Statement**

Equal-Opportunity Employer