Special Needs Childcare Assistant

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 100,000 - 145,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Contract with potential extension

Hybrid working arrangements

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a compassionate Special Needs Childcare Assistant to support a child with developmental needs in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape. The role involves implementing individualized care plans, assisting with daily living, and coordinating with therapists and educators.

The position requires experience with diverse abilities, First Aid/CPR, and the ability to work in a home/community setting with potential hybrid elements and evening or weekend hours as needed.

Qualifications

• Experience working with children with diverse abilities and developmental needs.
• First Aid and CPR certification is required.
• Understanding of intervention strategies for developmental disabilities.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct care and support following personalized care plans.
• Assist with daily living activities and mobility.
• Implement therapeutic activities and educational exercises as directed by specialists.
• Facilitate social interaction and inclusion in age-appropriate activities.
• Maintain safety and well-being of the child at all times.
• Document progress and observations accurately.
• Transport the child to appointments or activities as needed.
• Communicate with parents, therapists, and educators.

Skills

Special needs childcare experience

First Aid & CPR certification

Education

Qualifications in special education or childcare

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a compassionate and skilled Special Needs Childcare Assistant to support a child with specific developmental needs in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape. This role requires a dedicated individual with experience in assisting children with diverse abilities, promoting their independence, and facilitating their inclusion in daily activities. The assistant will work closely with the family and potentially external therapists to implement individualized care plans. This is a vital role focused on enhancing the child's quality of life and developmental progress within a supportive home and community environment in Port Elizabeth. The position requires a flexible approach, adapting to the child's specific requirements and the family's needs, possibly involving some remote coordination with educational professionals in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide direct care and support to a child with special needs, following personalized care plans.
• Assist with daily living activities, including personal hygiene, feeding, and mobility.
• Implement therapeutic activities and educational exercises as directed by specialists.
• Facilitate social interaction and inclusion in age-appropriate activities.
• Ensure the child's safety and well-being at all times.
• Maintain a clean and organized environment conducive to the child's needs.
• Communicate effectively with parents, therapists, and educators.
• Document progress and observations accurately.
• Transport the child to appointments or activities as needed.
• Provide emotional support and encouragement to the child.

Requirements

• Previous experience working with children with special needs (e.g., autism, ADHD, physical disabilities).
• Relevant qualifications or certifications in special education, childcare, or therapy support.
• Understanding of various developmental disabilities and intervention strategies.
• First Aid and CPR certification.
• Excellent communication, observation, and problem-solving skills.
• Patience, empathy, and a positive attitude.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Must pass a thorough background check.
• Must reside in or be able to commute reliably to Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape.
• Flexibility to work varying hours, potentially including some remote check-ins.
• Knowledge of local support services for special needs children is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive contract rate, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• This role provides a rewarding opportunity to make a significant difference in a child's life.
• Flexible working arrangements, potentially including hybrid elements, will be discussed.
• Professional development opportunities related to special needs care may be available.
• The chance to work closely with a supportive family and a team of specialists in Port Elizabeth.
• A contract position offering a defined period of engagement with potential for extension.
• Health and safety protocols will be rigorously followed.