Disability Service Worker (complex needs), Full-Time

Taproot Community Support Services; Town of Slave Lake; On-site; CAD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee ownership

Work/life balance

Training opportunities

Benefits

Job summary

Taproot Community Support Services is an employee-owned organization delivering disability services across Alberta, BC, and Ontario. The Disability Services Worker provides in-residence and community supports, builds relationships with individuals, families and employers, and helps implement care plans under supervision.

Ideal candidates hold Grade 12 or higher in Disabilities Studies or related fields, have at least one year of relevant experience, and possess a valid Class 5 Driver License,

Qualifications

• Minimum Grade 12 or Diploma/Degree in Disabilities Studies, Social Work, Human Services, Special Education or equivalent.
• One year experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities, complex needs, including behavioural and mental health supports.
• MANDATORY - A valid Class 5 Driver License with clear driving abstract and reliable transportation.
• Clear criminal record check and social services involvement check.
• Positive attitude and belief in rights of persons with disabilities to define their life choices.
• Skills in assisting individuals in anger management, daily living, self help, etc.
• 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.

Responsibilities

• 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 available at time of interview.

Skills

Driver License

Criminal Record Check

First Aid/CPR

Disabilities Experience

Anger Management

Education

Grade 12 or Diploma/Degree in Disabilities Studies, Social Work, Human Services, Special Education

Tools

CRRM/Community Resources

Job description

The Program

At Taproot Community Support Services, we’re a 100 percent employee‑owned organization through an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT). Every employee is an owner from their first day, with a voice in shaping Taproot’s future and the opportunity to share in employee ownership dividends.

The Program

As a Certified B Corporation, we harness business for good. Since 1983 we’ve grown steadily, now delivering support across Alberta, British Columbia, and Ontario through more than 90 contracts.
Our 800‑plus employee‑owners live by five shared values: we are stronger together, we lead with optimism, we embrace challenges, we respect every voice, and we go above and beyond. Guided by these principles, we deliver more than 125 community‑based services each year. We walk alongside about 1,600 children, youth, families, and people with diverse abilities, with revenues exceeding $70 million.
The high quality, personalized care Taproot Community Support Services provides through this program helps those we serve to overcome their challenges and develop their strengths. We ensure a full life by forging friendships, nurturing a sense of belonging and encouraging community inclusion.

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.

We encourage every individual we serve to participate in the development of their care plan, and we also invite family members and loved ones to become involved. This way we can be sure the individual’s unique strengths, personal goals and activity preferences are taken into account. When the individual does not have an extended support system, Taproot Community Support Services staff advocates for them and ensures they are heard, valued and treated with respect.

Scheduling

One (1) permanent full-time position, working 40 hours per week:

• Monday through Friday 0900-1700.

An additional $3.30 per hour will be paid when supporting complex needs clients. This additional amount does not apply to scheduled trainings/meetings and non‑complex shifts.

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.
• 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.

As An Ideal Candidate You Possess

• Minimum Grade 12 or Diploma/Degree in Disabilities Studies, Social Work, Human Services, Special Education or equivalent.
• One (1) year experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities, complex needs, including behavioural and mental health supports.
• MANDATORY - A valid Class 5 Driver License with clear driving abstract and reliable transportation.
• Clear criminal record check and social services involvement check.
• 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.
• 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

At Taproot, your passion for helping others can truly make a difference. As an employee‑owned company, we value collaboration, learning, and innovation. Our strength‑based approach guides both our care and how we support each other. Join a team where your voice matters, and together, we’re building a company we’re proud of.

No candidate will meet every single desired qualification. If your experience looks a little different from what we've identified and you think you can bring value to the role, we'd love to learn more about you!

Our Employees Enjoy

• Employee ownership from day one through our EOT, with opportunity for profit‑sharing dividends.
• Work/life balance.
• Learning and career development opportunities.
• Competitive wages and salaries.
• Paid vacation and benefits for eligible employees.
• Matching RRSP plan for eligible employees within Alberta.
• Professional development opportunities and job‑related training.
• Employee and Family Assistance Program.
• Long Service Milestone rewards.
• Employee referral bonus program.
• A values‑driven workplace — as a Certified B Corp, we're committed to using business as a force for good.

Equal-Opportunity Employer

Our commitment to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment is unwavering. We believe that varied backgrounds and experiences fuel innovation and success. As an equal‑opportunity employer, we prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion across all operations. We're seeking candidates passionate about contributing to our multicultural teams and enriching our workplace with their unique insights and cultural sensitivity.

We encourage individuals from diverse backgrounds to apply and join us in fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment.

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