Developmental Support Worker

Nova Support Homes

Position Title: Developmental Support Worker
Location: Grande Prairie, Alberta
Employment Type: Full-Time, Permanent, 4-on, 4-off Rotation (Day Shift)

Salary: $48, 124.00

We are currently seeking a dedicated Developmental Support Worker who will serve as a positive role model to support, lead, and motivate change for vulnerable populations. You will have the opportunity to model healthy relationships, encourage positive behavior, and design activities to promote the overall welfare of supported individuals, all while increasing your knowledge of person-centered approaches, trauma-informed care and therapeutic programming. Accelerate your career in a purposeful role and enjoy the intrinsic rewards of helping people live their lives with dignity and authenticity.

About Mountain Plains Community Services Society of the North (MPCSSN):

Established in 1972, MPCSSN is a non-profit organization dedicated to delivering diverse community and family-focused programming tailored to the unique needs of Alberta's Northwest region. We collaborate with Alberta Health Services and Alberta Human Services to provide comprehensive support services. Our organization is accredited by CARF International and is a proud member of the ALIGN Association of Community Services and the Children's Welfare League of Canada.

Our Commitment to You:

• Core training upon hiring in Trauma-Informed Care, Non-Violent Crisis Intervention, First Aid, and Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training
• Ongoing professional development opportunities, including training in person-centered care, Mental Health First Aid, and therapeutic programming
• Annual $500.00 Wellness Spending Benefit after three (3) months of employment
• Comprehensive benefits package at six (6) months of employment
• Up to $100.00 in RRSP matching after six months of employment
• Vacation entitlement of two weeks in the first year, increasing to four weeks in the second year
• Educational support after two years of employment
• This role's expected schedule is a rotation of 4 days on and 4 days off with 12-hour shifts. Specific scheduling will depend on program needs and will be discussed during the hiring process
• $48, 124 annual salary, with annual $ salary increments applied up to six (6) years of employment

About the Nova Program:

The Nova Program is a supported living environment with two operating locations in the community of Grande Prairie. The Nova Program is committed to equipping our persons-served with the necessary tools and skills to develop the life skills necessary to live as independently as possible through their day-to-day lives. The Nova Support Home is intended for long-term support, supporting adults into their senior years. Programming is highly individualized, allowing for a high quality, person-centered support model.

Role Overview:

As a Developmental Support Worker, you will play a pivotal role in enhancing the quality of life for individuals with developmental disabilities. Your role will involve providing hands-on support, implementing individualized life skills programs, and taking a proactive approach to foster client independence and personal growth. This position requires flexibility, patience, and strong problem-solving and communication skills. You will also be responsible for transporting clients to community activities and appointments, making reliable transportation a key component of the role.

Key Responsibilities:

• Personalized Support: Assist clients with daily living activities, including personal care, meal preparation, and household management, ensuring their comfort and safety.
• Community Integration: Support clients in participating in community activities, fostering social connections, and promoting inclusivity.
• Skill Development: Develop and implement individualized support plans focusing on life skills enhancement, such as communication, financial management, etc. Proactively identify opportunities to help clients achieve their goals and adjust as necessary.
• Transportation: Provide reliable transportation for supported individuals to appointments, social events, and community programs, ensuring punctuality and safety.
• Advocacy: Advocate for individuals' rights and needs within the community and support them in accessing necessary services and resources.
• Documentation: Maintain accurate records of individuals' progress, incidents, and any changes in their needs or preferences.
• Team Collaboration: Work closely with a multidisciplinary team, including healthcare professionals, service coordinators, funders, and family members to deliver cohesive and comprehensive support.
• Trauma- Informed Approaches: Provide consistent support to clients through a trauma-informed lens and utilize appropriate support strategies that demonstrate patience, compassion and empathy.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to develop, adjust, and implement individualized support plans tailored to the needs of supported individuals.
• Patience, empathy, and a genuine passion for supporting others.
• Proficiency in problem-solving and adapting to diverse situations.
• Ability to exercise critical thinking and to adjust following periods of tension.
• Willingness to participate in various programming and activities, including but not limited to; swimming, walking/hiking, biking, video games, etc.

Qualifications:

• Education: 2+ Year post-secondary diploma or degree. Educational background in Disability Studies, Social Work, Human Services, or a related field an asset.
• Experience: Preferred previous experience in supporting individuals with developmental disabilities or otherwise vulnerable populations will be considered an asset
• Valid Alberta Class 5 Driver's License with a clean driving record.
• Clear Criminal Records Check and Children's Services Intervention Record Check.
• Vehicle insurance with $2 million liability and reliable access to transportation.

At Mountain Plains Community Services Society of the North, we are committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace. We encourage all qualified candidates to apply. While we appreciate all applications, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.