The kind of work
you could do

You could support people with intellectual disabilities in a variety of settings including:

•  their homes
•  their workplaces
•  their family home
•  community locations such as recreation
facilities, libraries, social events, etc.

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Disability Support Workers:

Disability Support Workers may also be called Direct Service Workers. They work as part of a support team to:

•  provide day-to-day direct support to individuals
•  provide opportunities for the individual to learn new skills in a variety of areas
•  assist the individual to achieve their personal goals
•  assist the individual to contribute to and participate in the community
•  assist the individual to develop relationships with others

Job descriptions:  

Residential Direct Service Worker
Day/Vocational Support Worker

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Management and Leadership Roles:

Management and other leadership positions are available for qualified disability support workers. A frontline supervisor is responsible for:

• ensuring services for individuals are person centred
• ensuring day-to-day services run smoothly
• supervision of staff, including coaching and mentoring
• handling administration and financial requirements
• developing networks with the community

Job descriptions:  

Front-line Supervisor Residential
Front-line Supervisor Day or Employment

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Specialist Roles:

Some agencies also need disability support workers for special roles.  For example, employment consultants or case managers are responsible for:

• finding and supervising community based work opportunities for assigned individuals
• career exploration with the individual, investigating and locating potential employment
• securing paid employment opportunities
• providing employment training and follow up

Job description:  

Employment Consultant
Job Coach

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Senior managers:

Senior managers such as program co-ordinators, play a significant role in program and service areas. They usually work in large organizations, reporting to executive directors or chief executive officers. Program co-ordinators:

• supervise daily operations
• lead and direct staff
• develop and manage support services
• develop and monitor budgets
• do administrative work

Job description:  

Program Co-ordinator

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Executive Directors:

Executive directors provide overall leadership and management to the agency. They are responsible for:

• ensuring the mission and vision of the agency is fulfilled
• ensuring the agency provides quality support services
• monitoring financial accountability
• administering policies and procedures
• carrying out the agency’s Strategic Plan

Job description:  

Executive Director