Autism Nova Scotia
DEPARTMENT: Independent Living Support (ILS)
DIRECT REPORT: ILS Coordinator
TYPE OF EMPLOYMENT: Casual – as needed, weekend and evening availability required
LOCATION: Throughout HRM community depending on participant locations
SALARY: $21.50 per hour
UNDERSTANDING – ACCEPTANCE – INCLUSION
About Autism Nova Scotia…
Autism Nova Scotia is a community-based organization that builds understanding, acceptance, and inclusion for Autistics/individuals on the autism spectrum and their families through leadership, advocacy, education, training, and programming across the lifespan. Our vision is a society where people with autism can live their lives to the fullest. This vision informs our day-to-day operations and provides a philosophy that revolves around person-focused supports, strength-based approaches, and community-oriented learning opportunities.
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Job Summary
The Community Living Coach supports Autistic adults in the ILS program to help them live independently by setting and achieving personalized goals. This role involves providing direct support, maintaining relationships, and collaborating with external organizations.
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Key Responsibilities
Program Management & Delivery
• Provide 1:1 support to ILS participants in their homes to meet independence goals.
• Build trusting relationships with participants and families.
• Track and maintain records of participant support.
• Regularly check in with participants to ensure quality and progress towards goals.
• Update the ILS Coordinator with coaching progress and participant feedback.
• Collaborate with external community organizations (DCS, health, etc.).
Participant Support & Engagemen t
• Ensure support aligns with participants’ goals.
• Adapt support based on individual needs to ensure success.
Program Evaluation & Reporting
• Report on the effectiveness of support strategies and goal achievement.
• Provide regular updates to the ILS Coordinator regarding participant progress.
Team Collaboration & Leadership
• Collaborate with the ILS Coordinator and other team members.
• Contribute to the development and improvement of the program’s support strategies.
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Qualifications
• Degree/Diploma in Human/Social Services or currently enrolled (relevant experience may be considered).
• 1-3 years of recent experience with Autistic adults preferred.
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Additional Skills & Competencies
• Knowledge of Autism and trauma-informed practices.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and take direction.
• Familiarity with community-based services.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office.
• Valid Nova Scotia driver’s license, clean driving record, and access to transportation.
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Certifications/Training
• Criminal record check and vulnerable sector check required.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
• ASIST certification (within 2 years) an asset; training provided if needed.
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Working Conditions
• In-home, community-based, and remote work required.
• Occasional evening or weekend work.
• Local travel for program delivery and community engagement.
What to expect at Autism Nova Scotia…
You’ll celebrate the uniqueness of all individuals.
Diversity is a fundamental part of our core values; we create every opportunity to become more inclusive. We encourage applications from qualified candidates from all diverse communities including, but not limited to, aboriginal persons, racially visible persons, people with disabilities, 2SLGBTQ+ and women in non-traditional roles.
You’ll make a difference.
You’ll be surrounded by passionate and committed individuals who work together to improve quality of life through our services
You’ll find a place to grow and develop.
We support professional development through training courses and support to help our professionals working with autistic people gain the knowledge they need to succeed and thrive. With a lot of opportunity for professional development and collaborative projects, you’ll continue to grow and learn throughout your career.
Candidates selected for interviews will be contacted and expected to provide at least three recent, relevant references. The successful candidate maybe required to provide official transcripts to show proof of academic achievements where applicable.
Please Note: We encourage and consider applications from all qualified individuals regardless of race, religion, color, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, age, or those of other minority groups. Members of designated groups are encouraged to self-identify.