Direct Support Worker

7 days ago

Kitchener, Ontario, Canada a9a0aa01-8a46-4f44-8431-4eaf3dd05945 Full time US$72,000 - US$95,000 per year

At Brighter Horizons, we create a warm, family-style environment where adults, youth and children with developmental disabilities and mental health needs can thrive. Our caring team provides individualized residential and community-based support that promotes inclusion, independence, and personal growth.

We're seeking compassionate Direct Support Workers (DSWs) who are passionate about making a difference in people's lives.

As a Direct Support Worker, you'll support individuals in a residential setting to live meaningful, fulfilling lives. You'll assist with daily living, promote community participation, and help each person reach their personal goals — always with dignity and respect.

Key Responsibilities

  • Provide person-centered care in accordance with individualized Behaviour Support Plans (BSPs).
  • Assist with personal care, hygiene, nutrition, and medication administration.
  • Encourage skill development, independence, and participation in community and recreational activities.
  • Support communication and self-expression using verbal and alternative communication methods.
  • Apply behavioural and crisis-management techniques in a calm, professional manner.
  • Maintain accurate documentation, progress notes, and incident reports.
  • Ensure a clean, safe, and welcoming home environment.
  • Collaborate with team members, families, and community partners.

Qualifications

  • Diploma or degree in a social services field (e.g., Developmental Services Worker, Social Service Worker, Child and Youth Care).
  • Minimum 1–5 years' experience supporting individuals with developmental disabilities, autism, or dual diagnosis (residential experience preferred).
  • Knowledge of QAM standards is an asset.
  • Valid G-Class Driver's License and reliable transportation.
  • Current First Aid & CPR (Level C) certification.
  • Training in Safe Management Group (SMG) or Understanding and Managing Aggressive Behaviour (UMAB) preferred.
  • Clear Vulnerable Sector Screening required.

Skills & Attributes

  • Compassionate, patient, and dependable.
  • Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
  • Crisis management and problem-solving skills.
  • Physically and emotionally capable of providing direct support (lifting up to 50 lbs).

Schedule

  • Shifts include days, evenings, overnight, weekends, and holidays.
  • Continuous operations – flexibility required.

Why Work with Us

  • Supportive, family-oriented team environment.
  • Opportunities for ongoing training and professional development.
  • Meaningful work that makes a real difference in people's lives.

Join Brighter Horizons and help create brighter futures for the individuals we support.

Brighter Horizons Inc. promotes equity, diversity, and inclusion in all hiring practices. Accommodations are available during any stage of the recruitment process in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). To request support or adjustments, contact us at While we value every application, only those moving forward to an interview will hear from us.

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Permanent

Pay: $27.00-$28.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

  • Dental care
  • Extended health care
  • On-site parking
  • Paid time off

Work Location: In person

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