Wage: $27/hour + 10% in lieu of benefits 

Schedule & Hours: Various schedules and hours based on program(s) 

Locations: Multiple locations across the Fraser Valley

Fall 2026 Available Programs: 

• Swim @ Cheam Leisure Centre: Sundays, October 18 to December 6, from 8:15 - 11:00 am

Program opportunities are available year-round, and we recruit for each season closer to the start of the program. Specific program details will be provided during the recruitment process. 

Dates & Times: Available immediately (Shift times may take place weekdays or weekends, between 8am - 6pm (Max. 6 hours per day))

Location: Various locations across the Lower Mainland (Vancouver, Burnaby, Richmond, Coquitlam, etc.)

Compensation: $25/hr + 10% in lieu of benefits ($27.50/hr)

Position Purpose

The Employment Support Worker will be responsible for overseeing the onsite development of Autistic participants enrolled in CAN-Skills Training Employment Program (CAN-STEP) during their work experience placements. The successful applicant may be supporting between 1-3 participants at a time.

CAN-STEP Program

The CAN Skills Training Employment Program (CAN-STEP) empowers Autistic youth and adults ages 16+ with skills training and work experience to prepare them for successful employment.  Over the course of 11 weeks, participants receive classroom training (5 or less weeks) and work experience (6 weeks or 120 hours) opportunities in the Lower Mainland.  The CAN-STEP program will be offered with a focus on entry-level positions in the Hospitality industry.

About Canucks Autism Network

Canucks Autism Network (CAN) provides programs for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families, while promoting acceptance and inclusion through community engagement and training initiatives across BC and beyond.  CAN has been the successful recipient of a contract with the Opportunities Fund by the Government of Canada.  With OPPS funding, we have launched the CAN Skills Training Employment Program (CAN_STEP), designed to support Autistic youth by providing training and work experience in growing industries.

CAN-STEP is delivered in a group-based cohort model, with a strong focus on providing participants with the skills and certification necessary to achieve employment. 

Key Functions

• Providing direct supports to participants during their work experience placements at the employers’ worksites 
• Adapting job duties to suit the participants’ capabilities in the workplace by implementing strategies such as using visual supports and hands on demonstrations, with the intention of participants achieving mastery over their work tasks
• Providing guidance to participants in navigating the workplace culture, interacting with their employer/co-workers, asking for help when needed, and successfully completing job tasks and duties
• Implementing long term supports and strategies to help participants transition to working independently over time
• Follow recommendations and teaching strategies provided by the Work Experience Coordinator
• Communicate with the CAN-STEP Employment Team for immediate needs and supports
• Provide onsite support and training to employers on how to best support participants in their job role/duties
• Provide positive and constructive feedback to participants 
• Reports and make observational notes on the  CAN-STEP participant communication platform (weekly communication log)

Qualifications

• Must be 18 years of age or older
• Over 2 years of experience supporting individuals on the Autism spectrum
• Education in related field or knowledge in career counselling, social services, or adult learning an asset 
• Experience supporting Autistic individuals in employment settings is an asset, but not necessary
• Valid BC Driver’s license (an asset)
• Experience working in Canucks Autism Network programs preferred, but not required
• Consent to a Criminal Record Check and Vulnerable Sector Check 

Key Skills & Abilities

• Patient, enthusiastic, collaborative, and adaptable
• Passionate about Canucks Autism Network and its values and vision
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and teamwork skills
• Strong teaching skills
• Ability to model skills and provide feedback
• Strong knowledge of behaviour support strategies
• Strong ability to problem-solve
• Ability to maintain confidential information
• High degree of professionalism: able to represent CAN brand and interact with members and the public
• Willingness to travel around the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley

The Canucks Autism Network is looking to welcome some new Support Workers to the team for this upcoming Fall 2026 Season!

• Multisport (Basketball & Ball Hockey) @ Randerson Ridge Elementary School: Tuesdays, Oct 27 - Dec 1 4:45 - 6:45 pm 
• Skate @ Cliff McNabb Arena: Fridays, Oct 23 - Nov 27, 4:00 - 5:15 pm 
• Swim @ Beban Park Pool: Sundays, Oct 18 - Dec 6, 4:15 - 7:00 pm 

We provide programs and services for Autistic individuals aged 3-18+ across a variety of community settings and locations throughout BC, with opportunities to have fun, connect with others, and develop new skills. Core programs include Multisport, Swim, and Skate.  Special opportunity programs range by location and include Gymnastics, Hockey, and Music and Dance.  Support Workers may sign up for one or for multiple programs during the season, we just ask that commit to all sessions within a season.

Role Overview:  

Support Workers play a key role in supporting autistic children to participate meaningfully in CAN programs. Depending on the program, this may involve providing 1:1 or 1:2 support or supporting the group as a whole alongside Onsite Supervisors, Coaches, other Support Workers, and Volunteers.  

In all settings, Support Workers contribute to creating safe, inclusive, and engaging environments where participants feel understood, respected, valued, supported, and able to participate in ways that work for them. 

Support Workers recognize that each Autistic individual has unique strengths, preferences, and support needs. Support is guided by participant autonomy, dignity, and choice, and is adapted based on individual and group needs. All support workers receive training, mentorship, and ongoing support from Onsite Supervisors and program staff.  

Responsibilities

Responsibilities may vary depending on program format and participant needs. Support Workers contribute to the overall success of programs by supporting participants, facilitating engagement, and collaborating with the team.  

Participant Support:  

• Create a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment 
• Adapt activities so all participants can meaningfully engage  
• Support individual goals and development (skills, independence, communication) 
• Demonstrate awareness of individual participant needs (physical, cognitive, emotional) 
• Help participants build confidence, success, and belonging 
• Support the health, safety, and overall well-being of participants by maintaining a safe and hygienic environment under the guidance of the Onsite Supervisor including assisting with participant toileting and personal care needs in a respectful and dignified manner 

 Team Collaboration:  

• Maintain a positive, patience, and respectful demeanor 
• Work effectively with staff, including following direction from coaches and supervisors 
• Demonstrate flexibility and adaptability in changing situations 
• Contribute to a supportive, solution-focused team environment 
• Demonstrate willingness to collaborate, communicate, and support other team members 

Professional Conduct:  

• Consistently follows policies, procedures, and safety standards 
• Complete required training and documentation accurately and timely 
• Use CAN resources and visuals appropriately 
• Clearly and professionally communicate logistics, updates, and concerns with families and staff 

Sustainable Work Practices and Wellbeing: 

• Engage in self-reflective practices and open communication with supervisors to support personal wellbeing, maintain a healthy boundaries and contribute to a sustainable and supportive work environment.    

Job Requirements

• Must be 16 years of age or older
• Ability to obtain a Criminal Record Check and Vulnerable Sector Check
• Availability to work evenings and weekends (as required by programming)
• If you are applying for a skate program: you must be able to skate forwards, backwards, stop with ease and be able to physically support beginner participant on the ice.
• If you are applying for a swim program: you must be able to physically support a beginner swimmer in the water at depths up to 6ft

Knowledge, Assets, and Skills

• Understanding of autism, neurodiversity, and the strengths and barriers experienced by autistic youth and adults 
• Some experience supporting Autistic individuals and/or other diverse needs or relevant autism experience and knowledge. 
• Lived experience of autism (self-identifying as autistic) or meaningful personal or community connections to autism is considered an asset 
• Experience or familiarity with strategies to support engagement, communication, and participation in group settings  
• Understanding diverse communication styles and the ability to adapt support accordingly is considered an asset 
• Relevant post-secondary education, certifications (e.g., First Aid, mental health training, crisis support), or related experience is considered an asset 
• Strong interpersonal, communication skills (verbal and written) and active listening skills 
• Interest or experience in recreational, wellness, employment, or community-based programming 
• Reliable, punctual, and committed to consistent program participation 

Approach  

• Committed to treating Autistic children with dignity, respect, and understanding in all interactions 
• Works in alignment with CAN’s neurodiversity-affirming and trauma-informed practices, prioritizing safety, choice and trust.
• Collaborative, flexible, and supportive team member 
• Patient, enthusiastic, and responsive to participant needs 
• Open to feedback and commitment to ongoing learning, reflection and growth. 

We value diversity in the workplace.  We welcome applicants from all qualified candidates, including Indigenous peoples, individuals of all genders and sexual orientation, race, ethnic origin, disability, age, and religion.

We thank all of those 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.