Support Services Specialist

POSITION

Title: – Support Services Specialist (SSS)

Employment Status: Full Time, Part Time and Casual

Location(s): Guelph Location

Department: Residential and Respite Services Team

Are you a skilled and compassionate Support Services Specialist worker ready to make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities?

Hopewell is seeking a full-time, part time and Casual Support Services Specialist to join our team, providing support across multiple sites in Guelph-Wellington, ON

YOUR BENEFITS & PERKS

We invest in our people and support their growth. We reward hard work and cultivate an environment where you can thrive. Here are some of the benefits you can expect as part of our team:

• Competitive annual salary range between $53,800.00 and $65,600.00 with flexible work schedule based on client & staff needs.
• Comprehensive group benefits coverage including life, AD & D, health, medical and dental benefits coverage.
• Contributory group registered retirement savings plan – Hopewell contributes up to 3%.
• Generous paid time off with up to 25 days per year of vacation and holiday pay depending on length of service with Hopewell.
• Opportunity to join a collaborative, tight-knit team with a supportive culture.
• The chance to make a meaningful impact every day in the lives of those we support.

YOUR KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Reporting to the Manager, Respite and Residential, your day-to-day responsibilities include:

• Consistently and effectively implement Behaviour Support Plans and programming to reduce risk-behaviour and support skill development for individuals with complex needs.
• Work directly with supported individuals utilizing supportive intervention strategies (including crisis intervention strategies like physical restraints, behavioural PRN administration) and de-escalation techniques.
• Assess risk and support people in developing a plan to keep the person safe.
• Provide person-directed support and services to supporting individuals in a manner that is respectful and fosters self-determination and empowerment whenever possible.
• Provide transportation to and from all daily living activities.
• Assist in all activities of daily living. Including personal hygiene support, participation in physical, vocational, and recreational activities.
• Effectively implement care plans for individuals supported, including behaviour support plan proactive strategies and de-escalation strategies.
• Provide education and mentorship to people supported on individual choice and informed decision making.
• Promote a safe environment for people supported (in home and community), staff, families, and visitors.
• Assess needs of client and exercise good judgment when implementing intrusive measures for people supported.
• Ensure all documentation is completed in a timely manner in accordance with ministry requirements. This includes detailed incident reports, daily notes, communication logs and data collection.
• Work with the Behavioural team in data collection reporting, completing data sheets and advising on any new or concerning behaviours being presented by supported individuals.
• At times may act as a liaison between the families, people supported and leadership.
• Participate in writing, Individual Service Plan documentation, recording medical appointment outcomes or other consultive appointments. Consult with the team supporting the individual to evaluate the individual's needs and plan for continuing services.
• Provide formal and informal mentorship and training to new employees, part time workers and volunteers, upholding a positive image for Hopewell and promoting adherence to organizational policies and practices.
• Be familiar with and dispense medications. Follow medication procedures and manage medication as per protocols.
• Observe, assess, and report changes in individuals' behaviours, physical abilities, and activities.
• Demonstrate effective communication skills:
• Professionally and respectfully communicate in writing and in person with other team members, supporting individuals, family members and community partners: demonstrating respect and interest in other's opinions and insights.

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Must be able to assume and maintain a various postures for prolonged periods of time. (i.e. Kneeling, squatting, crawling, sitting standing.)
• Must be able to physically transport or hold/restrain to ensure the best care welfare and security of adult persons supported.
• Requires ability to make quick body movements in response to challenging behaviours.

CORE COMPETENCIES

At Hopewell, all employees demonstrate behaviors that support our mission, vision, and values. Key competencies include:

• Reliability: Arrive prepared for shifts, complete tasks on time, and step in to support direct care when needed.
• Accountability & Compliance: Follow policies, procedures, and workplace regulations; identify and report issues or incidents; act professionally and ethically.
• Quality & Accuracy: Complete documentation with attention to detail and participate in ongoing training and development.
• Collaboration & Relationships: Respond to the needs of residents and colleagues with professionalism, empathy, and a positive attitude, fostering a supportive and respectful workplace.

This job description should not be construed to imply that these requirements are the exclusive standards of the position. Incumbents may be required to follow any other instructions and to perform any other related duties that may be required by the agency.

ABOUT HOPEWELL

Hopewell's story began in 1983, when John and Joanne Oosterhuis opened their farmhouse in Ariss, Ontario to children with disabilities, creating a home built on compassion, inclusion, and belonging. What started as one family's vision has grown into a trusted organization supporting children, youth, and adults with developmental and physical disabilities across Guelph-Wellington. Today, Hopewell provides supported living, respite, and community programs that uphold the Oosterhuis family's legacy — creating spaces where choice, belonging, and joy are at the heart of each day, and ensuring every person we serve can live a full and meaningful life.

Apply today with your resume and cover letter — to learn more about the impact you'll make.