Support Worker - Nanaimo

Canucks Autism Network; Nanaimo; On-site; CAD 29,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

Canucks Autism Network (CAN) is recruiting new Support Workers for the Fall 2026 season in Nanaimo. You will assist autistic participants to engage in Multisport, Skate, Swim, and other CAN programs, providing 1:1 or small-group support alongside onsite staff.

We value safety, inclusivity, and participant dignity. Training and ongoing mentorship are provided; roles require evenings and weekends, with assignments across Nanaimo locations.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of autism spectrum needs and supports.
• Ability to work with children and youth in program settings.
• Willingness to learn CAN policies and safety guidelines.

Responsibilities

• Support participants to engage in CAN programs meaningfully.
• Assist with safety, logistics, and group activities.
• Collaborate with staff and volunteers to deliver sessions.
• Maintain a welcoming, inclusive environment.

Skills

Autism awareness

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Reliability

Flexibility

Job description

Wage: $21/hour + 10% in lieu of benefits ($23.10/hr)

Schedule & Hours: Various hours and schedule

Locations: Please note that this position is located in various areas in Nanaimo

The Canucks Autism Network is looking to welcome some new Support Workers to the team for this upcoming Fall 2026 Season!

• Multisport (Basketball & Ball Hockey) @ Randerson Ridge Elementary School: Tuesdays, Oct 27 - Dec 1 4:45 - 6:45 pm
• Skate @ Cliff McNabb Arena: Fridays, Oct 23 - Nov 27, 4:00 - 5:15 pm
• Swim @ Beban Park Pool: Sundays, Oct 18 - Dec 6, 4:15 - 7:00 pm
• Program opportunities are available year-round, and we recruit for each season closer to the start of the program. Specific program details will be provided during the recruitment process.

Canucks Autism Network (CAN) is a charitable organization dedicated to building inclusive communities where individuals on the autism spectrum can thrive. Our vision is for every Autistic individual to be understood, accepted and supported in all community spaces. We engage a workforce of over 200 volunteers and 450 frontline staff to deliver programs for children, youth, and adults on the spectrum in communities across British Columbia. In total, there are over 20,100 Autistic individuals and family members accessing CAN programs in our registration system.

We provide programs and services for Autistic individuals aged 3-18+ across a variety of community settings and locations throughout BC, with opportunities to have fun, connect with others, and develop new skills. Core programs include Multisport, Swim, and Skate. Special opportunity programs range by location and include Gymnastics, Hockey, and Music and Dance. Support Workers may sign up for one or for multiple programs during the season, we just ask that commit to all sessions within a season.

Role Overview

Support Workers play a key role in supporting autistic children to participate meaningfully in CAN programs. Depending on the program, this may involve providing 1:1 or 1:2 support or supporting the group as a whole alongside Onsite Supervisors, Coaches, other Support Workers, and Volunteers.

In all settings, Support Workers contribute to creating safe, inclusive, and engaging environments where participants feel understood, respected, valued, supported, and able to participate in ways that work for them.

Support Workers recognize that each Autistic individual has unique strengths, preferences, and support needs. Support is guided by participant autonomy, dignity, and choice, and is adapted based on individual and group needs. All support workers receive training, mentorship, and ongoing support from Onsite Supervisors and program staff.

Responsibilities

Responsibilities may vary depending on program format and participant needs. Support Workers contribute to the overall success of programs by supporting participants, facilitating engagement, and collaborating with the team.

Participant Support

• Create a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment
• Adapt activities so all participants can meaningfully engage
• Support individual goals and development (skills, independence, communication)
• Demonstrate awareness of individual participant needs (physical, cognitive, emotional)
• Help participants build confidence, success, and belonging
• Support the health, safety, and overall well-being of participants by maintaining a safe and hygienic environment under the guidance of the Onsite Supervisor including assisting with participant toileting and personal care needs in a respectful and dignified manner

Team Collaboration

• Maintain a positive, patience, and respectful demeanor
• Work effectively with staff, including following direction from coaches and supervisors
• Demonstrate flexibility and adaptability in changing situations
• Contribute to a supportive, solution-focused team environment
• Demonstrate willingness to collaborate, communicate, and support other team members

Professional Conduct

• Consistently follows policies, procedures, and safety standards
• Complete required training and documentation accurately and timely
• Use CAN resources and visuals appropriately
• Clearly and professionally communicate logistics, updates, and concerns with families and staff

Sustainable Work Practices and Wellbeing

• Engage in self-reflective practices and open communication with supervisors to support personal wellbeing, maintain a healthy boundaries and contribute to a sustainable and supportive work environment.

Job Requirements

• Must be 16 years of age or older
• Ability to obtain a Criminal Record Check and Vulnerable Sector Check
• Availability to work evenings and weekends (as required by programming)
• If you are applying for a skate program: you must be able to skate forwards, backwards, stop with ease and be able to physically support beginner participant on the ice.
• If you are applying for a swim program: you must be able to physically support a beginner swimmer in the water at depths up to 6ft

Knowledge, Assets, And Skills

• Understanding of autism, neurodiversity, and the strengths and barriers experienced by autistic youth and adults
• Some experience supporting Autistic individuals and/or other diverse needs or relevant autism experience and knowledge.
• Lived experience of autism (self-identifying as autistic) or meaningful personal or community connections to autism is considered an asset
• Experience or familiarity with strategies to support engagement, communication, and participation in group settings
• Understanding diverse communication styles and the ability to adapt support accordingly is considered an asset
• Relevant post-secondary education, certifications (e.g., First Aid, mental health training, crisis support), or related experience is considered an asset
• Strong interpersonal, communication skills (verbal and written) and active listening skills
• Interest or experience in recreational, wellness, employment, or community-based programming
• Reliable, punctual, and committed to consistent program participation

Approach

• Committed to treating Autistic children with dignity, respect, and understanding in all interactions
• Works in alignment with CAN’s neurodiversity-affirming and trauma-informed practices, prioritizing safety, choice and trust.
• Collaborative, flexible, and supportive team member
• Patient, enthusiastic, and responsive to participant needs
• Open to feedback and commitment to ongoing learning, reflection and growth.

We value diversity in the workplace. We welcome applicants from all qualified candidates, including Indigenous peoples, individuals of all genders and sexual orientation, race, ethnic origin, disability, age, and religion.

We thank all of those who apply but only those selected will be contacted for an interview.

Please note that all chosen candidates will need to successfully complete our online criminal record check to move forward in the hiring process. Additionally, successful candidates/new employees must complete all training and necessary paperwork prior to starting the program.