Job Overview

We are looking for a compassionate, skilled Personal Support Worker (PSW) to support an autistic child with behavioural challenges. The right candidate has hands-on experience working with autistic children, understands how to prevent and de-escalate challenging behaviours, and gives patient, consistent, child-centred care that builds the child’s comfort, safety, and independence. Support may take place at home, at school, or in the community, and is tailored to the child’s needs, routines, and sensory preferences.

Duties

- Help with personal care and daily routines (dressing, toileting, hygiene, mealtimes) while respecting the child’s dignity, comfort, and sensory needs.
- Use proven strategies to prevent, manage, and de-escalate challenging behaviours such as meltdowns, aggression, self-injury, or elopement, keeping the child and others safe.
- Follow behaviour support plans, ABA programs, or strategies set by the family, Behaviour Analyst (BCBA), or care team, and apply them consistently.
- Recognize triggers, early warning signs, and sensory overload, and respond calmly before situations escalate.
- Support communication using the child’s preferred methods, such as visual schedules, picture cards (PECS), AAC devices, simple language, or sign.
- Maintain structured, predictable routines and help the child manage transitions and changes.
- Encourage the development of social, play, self-help, and life skills through positive reinforcement.
- Prepare meals and snacks that suit the child’s dietary needs and preferences, and keep the space clean, safe, and sensory-friendly.
- Give medication as directed and follow established care plans and safety practices.
- Keep accurate notes on behaviours, incidents, progress,



and changes in wellbeing, and share them with parents and the care team so care stays consistent and responsive.

Experience & Qualifications

Required:

- PSW certificate (or equivalent training).
- Proven experience supporting autistic children with behavioural challenges.
- Practical knowledge of behaviour management and de-escalation techniques.
- A calm, patient, and flexible approach, with the ability to stay composed in stressful situations.
- Clear, respectful communication with the child, family, and care team.
- Ability to follow care plans, behaviour plans, and medication instructions accurately.

Preferred:

- Experience with Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA), Positive Behaviour Support (PBS), or working alongside a BCBA or Registered Behaviour Technician.
- Training in non-violent crisis intervention (e.g., CPI/Safety Care) and First Aid/CPR.
- Familiarity with sensory processing needs and visual or alternative communication tools.
- Background in developmental services, special education, respite care, or child and youth work.
- Vulnerable Sector Check (or willingness to obtain one).

Your Impact

Your consistent, understanding support helps the child feel secure, understood, and confident, reduces stress for the family, and helps the care team work together toward the child’s growth and wellbeing.

Pay: $19.00-$22.00 per hour

Expected hours: 24.0 – 40.0 per week

Application question(s):

- Have you worked with an autistic child or individual who has behavioural challenges (such as meltdowns, aggression, self-injury, or running away), and are you comfortable handling these situations safely?

Licence/Certification:

- Driving Licence and have your own Vehicle ? (required)

Work Location: In person

📌 Personal Support Worker (Oakville)
🏢 City Healthcare Services
📍 Oakville