Developmental Services Worker (DSW) – Resume Pool
Job Description
We are building a resume pool of Developmental Services Workers (DSWs) to connect with agencies and organizations that support people with developmental disabilities.
This posting is not for one specific, immediate job opening. By applying, you agree that your resume and profile may be shared with partner developmental service agencies, group homes, supported living programs, day programs, respite services, and community support organizations that are actively hiring DSWs.
When there is a suitable match, employers may contact you directly to discuss opportunities and arrange interviews.
Summary of the DSW Role
Developmental Services Workers support children, youth, and adults with developmental disabilities to live as independently, safely, and meaningfully as possible. DSWs provide direct support, personal care, skill-building, behavioural support, advocacy, and community inclusion, while promoting dignity, choice, and rights.
DSWs work in a variety of settings, such as group homes, supported independent living, community outreach programs, schools, day programs, and respite services, often as part of an interprofessional team.
Key Responsibilities
Typical DSW duties may include, but are not limited to:
Support with Daily Living & Personal Care
- Assist individuals with personal care, including bathing, grooming, dressing, toileting, and hygiene, as needed and according to support plans.
- Support meal preparation, feeding (if required), and safe use of adaptive equipment.
- Encourage independence and skill development in daily living activities.
Skill Development & Community Inclusion
- Support individuals to build life skills such as communication, social skills, money management, cooking, and housekeeping.
- Facilitate participation in community activities, recreation, employment, volunteering, and social events.
- Promote inclusion, choice, self-advocacy, and empowerment in all aspects of life.
Behaviour Support & Safety
- Implement behaviour support plans developed by clinicians (e.g., behaviour therapists or psychologists).
- Use positive behaviour supports, de-escalation strategies, and trauma-informed approaches.
- Monitor and document behavioural changes; report concerns promptly to supervisors or clinical teams.
- Maintain a safe environment by following crisis prevention, emergency response, and risk management procedures.
Communication & Relationship Building
- Build respectful, trusting relationships with individuals and families.
- Communicate effectively with individuals who use different methods (verbal, non-verbal, AAC devices, visual supports).
- Work collaboratively with families, guardians, support coordinators, and community partners.
Health & Medication Support
- Support health-related needs according to organizational policies and training (e.g., medication assistance, monitoring health conditions, supporting medical appointments).
- Observe and report changes in physical or mental health to supervisors or healthcare professionals.
- Maintain accurate records related to health, medication, and incidents as required by the agency.
Documentation & Teamwork
- Accurately document daily notes, progress, incidents, and outcomes as per agency standards.
- Participate in team meetings, case conferences, and planning sessions.
- Follow individual support plans, safety plans, and agency policies.
Rights, Dignity & Advocacy
- Promote and uphold the rights, choices, and privacy of the people supported.
- Address and report any concerns about abuse, neglect, or rights violations in line with policy and legislation.
- Support individuals to understand their choices and participate in decision-making.
Qualifications
Typical requirements for DSW roles may include:
- Completion of a Developmental Services Worker (DSW) diploma or related human services program (e.g., Social Service Worker, Child and Youth Care, Educational Assistant), as accepted by the employer.
- Experience supporting people with developmental disabilities, autism, dual diagnosis, or mental health needs is an asset (students and new grads are welcome to apply).
- Knowledge of person-centred support, positive behaviour supports, and community inclusion principles.
- Ability to perform the physical aspects of the role, including assisting with mobility, transfers, and occasional behavioural interventions.
- Strong communication, patience, empathy, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team in sometimes fast-paced or unpredictable environments.
- Clear criminal record check with vulnerable sector screening (or willingness to obtain).
- Valid First Aid/CPR; NVCI/CPI or similar crisis prevention training is an asset.
- A valid driver’s license and access to a vehicle may be required by some employers for community-based roles.
What Happens When You Apply
When you submit your resume to this DSW resume pool:
- Your profile is reviewed and added to our Developmental Services talent database.
- When a partner agency has a DSW opening that matches your skills, preferences, and availability, your resume may be shared with that employer.
- The employer may contact you directly to:
- Learn more about your experience and interests
- Arrange an interview (virtual or in-person)
- Request references, certificates, and additional documents
Submitting your resume does not guarantee employment, but it increases your visibility to multiple organizations that support people with developmental disabilities.
Ideal Candidates
We welcome applications from:
- Experienced DSWs and human services workers looking for new roles or extra shifts.
- New graduates from DSW and related programs eager to start their careers in developmental services.
- Candidates with experience in group homes, day programs, schools, respite, or community outreach.
- Individuals available for day, evening, night, weekend, and awake overnight shifts, in full-time, part-time, or casual roles.
How to Apply
Please submit:
- Your current resume, highlighting DSW or related education and relevant experience.
- Your preferred locations (city/region) and types of settings (group home, day program, community, school, respite, etc.).
- Your availability (full-time/part-time/casual; days/evenings/nights/overnights).
By applying, you consent to having your resume shared with trusted developmental service employers who are actively hiring DSWs.