Support Worker - Nanaimo

Job Description

Overview

Wage: $21/hour + 10% in lieu of benefits ($23.10/hr)

Schedule & Hours: Various hours and schedule

Locations: This position is located in various areas in Nanaimo

The Canucks Autism Network (CAN) is looking to welcome new Support Workers to the team for the upcoming Spring 2026 Season.

CAN programs give children on the autism spectrum a place to learn sports skills, engage in new activities, and socialize with their peers. CAN provides a fun and engaging environment where the pace of instruction can be modified to meet participants’ individual needs. A high instructor-to-participant ratio allows for individualized support and instruction, and a variety of strategies are used to help participants, including visual supports. Training is provided to all CAN Support Workers, both in a virtual classroom and on the job. CAN offers sports & recreation programs such as Multisport, Swim, Skate, Gymnastics, Hockey, and Music in various regions. Support Workers may sign up for one or multiple programs during the season, with commitment to all sessions within a season.

Under the direction of the Coach and Onsite Supervisor, you will provide lessons and skill development in a program designed to promote physical and social development of children on the autism spectrum.

Responsibilities

• Provide individualized support to participants and promote active engagement and learning as directed by the Onsite Supervisor
• Follow instructions delivered by the Skills Coach and adapt to participant needs as required
• Facilitate peer-to-peer interaction and socialization amongst program participants
• Encourage participants to independently partake in activities
• Collaborate with Onsite Supervisor, Coaches, other Support Workers, and Volunteers to help the group be as successful as possible
• Help engage and mentor Volunteers in participant support as required
• Under the direction of the Onsite Supervisor, support the health, safety, and overall well-being of participants by maintaining a safe and hygienic environment, assisting with participant toileting and personal care needs in a respectful and dignified manner
• Event Staff: Communicate with guests and members of the public about Canucks Autism Network and assist with the needs of CAN family and fundraising events
• Have fun!

Job Requirements

• Must be 16 years of age or older
• For skate program applicants: ability to skate forwards, backwards, stop with ease, and physically support a beginner on the ice
• For swim program applicants: comfortable in all depths of the pool and able to physically support a beginner swimmer in the water
• Previous experience supporting Autistic individuals and other diverse abilities is an asset but not required
• Relevant post-secondary education and first aid certification are assets
• Fun, enthusiastic, motivated, and a positive team player
• Passion to get involved and eagerness to learn
• Patient, collaborative, adaptable, and respectful of children and families
• Willingness to learn and openness to receiving feedback
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and teamwork skills
• Punctual and reliable: committed to 100% program attendance
• Excellent people skills and ability to build positive relationships with participants

We thank all who apply, but only those selected will be contacted for an interview.

Please note that all chosen candidates will need to successfully complete our online criminal record check to move forward in the hiring process. Additionally, successful candidates/new employees must complete all training and necessary paperwork prior to starting the program.