Residential Counsellor

The Salvation Army in Canada; Toronto; On-site; CAD 34,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

The Salvation Army in Canada is seeking a compassionate care professional to provide direct support in a group living environment, assisting with daily living, medication administration, meal preparation, and community activities.

You will work with clients who have developmental disabilities and mental health challenges, following person-centered plans, maintaining accurate records, and collaborating with a supportive team.

Qualifications

• 2–3 year diploma in Developmental Services or equivalent.
• Certification in First Aid and CPR.
• At least 6 months of related experience with people who have developmental disabilities and/or mental health challenges.
• Knowledge of trauma-informed practices and recovery principles.
• Experience caring for individuals needing physical, emotional and psychosocial support.
• Proficiency with MS Office.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and respond to health, safety, and personal care needs of clients according to protocols.
• Provide individualized support based on person-centered plans.
• Assist with daily living tasks including meal prep, housekeeping, laundry, and hygiene.
• Administer medications as prescribed.
• Support participation in recreational, social, and community activities.
• Maintain accurate client records and communication logs.

Skills

Trauma-informed care

Medication administration

Teamwork

Communication

OH&S compliance

Empathy

Cultural sensitivity

Education

Developmental Services Worker Diploma

First Aid and CPR Certification

Tools

MS Office

Job description

Who We Are

For more than 130 years, The Salvation Army has served people in need in communities across Canada and Bermuda. Building on our roots as a world-wide Christian church, each year we help more than 2 million people, providing necessities such as food, clothing and shelter. In addition, we support people experiencing unemployment, addiction and family challenges. We continually adapt and innovate to meet emerging needs and live out our mission, vision and values of hope, service, dignity and stewardship. As a faith- and values-based organization, we hire and serve people of all backgrounds and walks of life - there is a place for everyone to belong here.

Mission Statement

The Salvation Army exists to share the love of Jesus Christ, meet human needs and be a transforming influence in the communities of our world.

Job Description

POSITION PURPOSE SUMMARY: The role provides direct care and individualized support to clients in a group living environment, promoting health, safety, personal development, and community involvement. This role supports daily living activities, medication administration, and household routines while maintaining accurate documentation and fostering a respectful, inclusive, and structured environment. The role contributes to the broader mission and values of The Salvation Army, upholding standards of service that reflect its spiritual and social commitment to the community.

Accountabilities

• Monitor and respond to the health, safety, and personal care needs of clients in accordance with established protocols.
• Provide individualized support to clients based on person-centered program plans.
• Assist clients with daily living tasks, including meal preparation, housekeeping, laundry, and hygiene as needed.
• Administer medications as prescribed, following organizational policies and procedures.
• Support client participation in recreational, social, and community activities.
• Contribute to accurate communication logs and client records.
• Encourage and facilitate family involvement in client activities and special events.
• Assist with orientation of new staff, students, volunteers, and external personnel as directed.
• Provide peer support and contribute to a positive team environment.
• Follow menu plans and accommodate dietary needs or restrictions as outlined.
• Support the implementation of site policies, procedures, and daily schedules.
• Serve as a positive role model through professional appearance, behavior, and attitude.
• Perform household routines including grocery shopping, cooking, and general cleaning.
• Ensure site cleanliness and organization are maintained throughout the shift.
• Attend staff meetings and training sessions as required to maintain current knowledge and skills as assigned.
• Promote and uphold TSA’s mission, values, and program philosophy.
• Represent the organization in a respectful and professional manner, reflecting the mission and values of The Salvation Army.
• Other related duties as assigned.

Working Conditions

• Work is primarily performed in the office environment, mostly within a ministry unit or facility.
• The position requires strong concentration, active listening, body language observation, multitasking, and moderate amount of keyboarding.
• The incumbent may interact with individuals displaying challenging behaviours.
• This role may require shift work, work over weekends, statutory holidays and extended hours.

Education And Experience Qualifications

• Completed 2-3-year Developmental Services Worker Diploma or other equivalent degree/diploma related to human services.
• Certification in First Aid and CPR.

Experience And Knowledge Requirements

• At least 6 months of related experience working with people who have developmental disabilities and/or mental health challenges is a minimum requirement for this role.
• Thorough knowledge of evidence-based, trauma-informed practices in addiction treatment, principles of recovery, and motivation interviewing.
• Experience in caring for people who require physical, emotional and psychosocial support.
• Experience working with a diverse population.
• Training and/or experience in medication administration.
• Knowledge of MS Office.
• An alternative level or combination of education and experience may be acceptable.

Skills And Capabilities

• Willingness to develop an understanding and support for the mission and purpose of The Salvation Army in Canada and its implications as related to position responsibilities.
• Work in compliance with OH&S Act and Regulations and abide by The Salvation Army’s health and safety policies and procedures.
• Demonstrated ability to provide a healthy, safe, non-judgmental space for clients accessing social services and/or client care and offer care in a respectful manner, to assess and report changes in physical and emotional well-being and to offer a compassionate approach to each client and their family.
• Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment and take the initiative.
• Must demonstrate a positive attitude towards the homeless and individuals with substance abuse and concurrent problems, including mental health concerns.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to deescalate situations with strong conflict resolution skills.
• High level of integrity, confidentiality, and professional ethics, with a balanced sense of fairness and flexibility.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to follow detailed instructions accurately.
• Adaptability to change and frequent interruptions.
• Demonstrated attention to detail with good analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Demonstrated patience, understanding, and professionalism in all interactions.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including active listening, empathy, and the ability to work effectively with staff, clients, families, volunteers, and visitors from diverse cultural backgrounds.

Compensation

The target hiring range for this position is $24.86 to $27.08 with a maximum of $29.29. Placement in the salary range will be based on factors such as market conditions, internal equity, and candidate experience, skills, and qualifications relevant to the role.

The Salvation Army will provide reasonable accommodation upon request. Please email [e-mail] if you have a need for any accommodation and we will be pleased to discuss this with you.