Position Overview
Family1st is a youth-focused residential care provider offering safe, structured, trauma-informed support services to youth with complex emotional, behavioural, mental health, substance use, and trauma-related needs.
We are currently seeking Child and Youth Workers (CYW) and Social Service Workers (SSW) to join our residential team in London, Ontario.
This role involves providing day-to-day care, supervision, mentorship, and relationship-based support within a residential setting. Staff play a critical role in maintaining emotional and physical safety, supporting emotional regulation, fostering stability and accountability, and helping youth develop life skills and positive community connections.
This is a challenging and rewarding position suited to individuals who are dependable, reflective, adaptable, and committed to ethical, youth-centred practice.
Employment Details
- Job Type: Full-time, Part-time, Contract, and Casual
- Hourly Rate: $23.00–$27.00 per hour (based on education, experience, training, and relevant certifications)
- Hours: Vary based on position, availability, and operational needs
- Shifts:
- Days
- Evenings
- Nights
- Weekends and Holidays (as required)
- Work Location: In-person (residential setting)
Key Responsibilities
- Provide direct care, supervision, mentorship, and support to youth in a residential setting
- Support emotional regulation, daily routines, life skills development, and community integration
- Implement behaviour support plans, safety plans, and individualized service strategies consistently and ethically
- Respond to crises using approved de-escalation and intervention strategies
- Maintain clear professional boundaries and trauma-informed interactions
- Accurately document incidents, observations, progress notes, and shift summaries
- Communicate effectively with supervisors, team members, caregivers, and external service providers
- Support youth participation in school, employment, appointments, recreation, and community activities
- Transport youth as required in accordance with agency policies
- Contribute to a safe, structured, and supportive living environment
Required Qualifications
- Diploma or Degree in Child and Youth Care, Social Service Worker, Developmental Service Worker, Early Childhood Education, Social Work, or a related Human Services field
- Experience working with youth or individuals with emotional, behavioural, mental health, or substance use concerns
- Strong communication, observation, and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team
- Willingness to learn and apply trauma-informed and behaviour-support approaches
- Commitment to ethical practice, accountability, and youth safety
Certifications and Requirements
- Valid First Aid and CPR certification (or willingness to obtain)
- CPI, NVCI, PMB, UMAB, or equivalent crisis intervention training (or willingness to obtain)
- Clear Vulnerable Sector Check and eligibility to obtain a Broad Record Check
- Valid Ontario Driver’s Licence
- Access to a reliable vehicle with appropriate insurance
- Ability to work a variety of shifts, including evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays
Assets (Considered an Advantage)
- Experience in residential care, group homes, treatment settings, or child welfare
- Experience supporting youth with complex behavioural, mental health, or substance use concerns
- Experience working with justice-involved youth
- Knowledge of trauma-informed care and crisis intervention practices
- Familiarity with documentation, incident reporting, and behaviour support planning
What We Offer
- Competitive hourly compensation
- Flexible scheduling where operationally possible
- Mileage reimbursement for approved work-related travel
- Supportive supervision and team-based environment
- Ongoing training and professional development opportunities
- Opportunities for growth within a developing organization
- Meaningful work supporting youth and families within the community
Application Questions
Applicants may be asked:
- Do you have previous experience working with youth or individuals with complex needs?
- Are you available to work evenings, nights, weekends, or holidays?
- Do you have experience supporting or managing challenging behaviours?
- Do you have experience in residential care, child welfare, mental health, or addictions services?
Accessibility and Accommodation
Family1st provides an inclusive and accessible recruitment process and respects the dignity and independence of all applicants, including individuals with disabilities. Accommodations are available upon request at any stage of the hiring process.
Applicants requiring accommodation during the interview or selection process are encouraged to inform us so appropriate arrangements can be made.
Equity and Anti-Discrimination
Family1st maintains a workplace and service environment free from discrimination and harassment. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, experience, and the ability to perform the essential duties of the position.
Family1st does not discriminate on the basis of race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, family status, disability, or any other protected ground under applicable human rights legislation.
Family1st is committed to creating a safe, respectful, and accountable environment for both youth and staff. We value professionalism, teamwork, consistency, and relationship-based practice and recognize the important role frontline staff play in supporting positive outcomes for youth.
Pay: $23.00-$27.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- Flexible schedule
- On-site parking
Application question(s):
- Willing to work overnight, evening, weekends as needed
Work Location: In person
