POSITION SCOPE
As a Youth Care Worker at Akoma Family Centre, you will join a team of dedicated professionals committed to providing compassionate, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive care to children with complex needs. The children in our care include those with profound autism, many of whom are non-verbal and may exhibit violent or aggressive behaviors due to trauma histories and developmental challenges.
This role requires individuals with patience, resilience, strong boundaries, and a passion for making a meaningful impact in the lives of some of the most vulnerable children in our community
QUALIFICATIONS AND EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
Required:
· A Bachelor’s degree in a social science or completion of a Child and Youth Care Worker diploma from a provincially approved institution (e.g., NSCC or other approved programs across Canada).
· Applicants from outside Nova Scotia must have completed a program approved by the relevant provincial/territorial authority.
· A valid Class 5 driver’s license (unrestricted), reliable vehicle, and the ability to transport youth.
· Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs and respond to physical behaviors safely using Non-Violent Crisis Intervention (NVCI) techniques.
· Canadian citizenship or permanent residency is required.
Assets:
· Experience working with children who have profound autism, are non-verbal, and may display violent behaviors.
· Strong understanding of trauma-informed and Africentric care practices.
· Knowledge of behavior support plans, sensory regulation, and specialized communication techniques (e.g., PECS, AAC devices).
RESPONSIBILITIES
As a Youth Care Worker, you are accountable for upholding all standards and regulations as defined by:
· Provincial Standards for Child Caring Facilities
· Children and Family Services Act
· Nova Scotia Child Abuse Protocol
· Akoma Family Centre Code of Conduct
· Code of Conduct/Ethics of Child and Youth Care Professional Associations
· Nova Scotia Occupational Health and Safety Act
· Akoma Policies and Procedures
CORE STANDARDS OF PRACTICE
Trauma-Informed Practice
· Implement Africentric trauma-informed care practices tailored to children’s unique needs.
· Apply strategies that de-escalate and support children in crisis, especially those with a history of trauma and developmental disabilities.
Child Engagement
· Build trusting, nurturing relationships with children who may struggle with communication and emotional regulation.
· Support children with non-verbal autism, using individualized communication strategies and behavior support plans.
· Administer medications safely and monitor for side effects or changes in behavior.
Team Collaboration
· Collaborate effectively with internal team members and external professionals (therapists, educators, health professionals).
· Report behavioral incidents and complete documentation in accordance with provincial and organizational standards.
Professionalism
· Model calm, respectful, and appropriate behavior, even during high-stress situations involving aggression or self-injury.
· Maintain all required certifications, complete shift reports, and participate in professional development.
GENERAL DUTIES
· Maintain cleanliness and safety of the facility (e.g., vacuuming, mopping, checking for hazards).
· Participate in regular staff meetings, debriefings, and crisis support reviews.
· Mentor and support new staff and students as required.
· Perform other duties as assigned by management.
WORK ENVIRONMENT NOTES
· Children in our care may be non-verbal and can exhibit physical aggression. The work is often physically and emotionally demanding.
· The position involves shift work, including overnight and weekend shifts.
· Staff must be able to work independently, follow structured behavior plans, and remain calm under pressure.
TO APPLY
Submit your resume to: [email protected]
We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
*** Applicants must legally able to work in Canada. We are unable to sponsor visas at this time. ***
Job Types: Full-time, Fixed term contract
Contract length: 6 months
Pay: $24.00 per hour
Expected hours: 40 per week
Benefits:
Application question(s):
Licence/Certification:
- Driving Licence (required)
Work Location: In person
