Direct Program Worker - Laurencrest Youth Services Inc

Laurencrest Youth Services Inc. is currently hiring for the role of Direct Program Worker.

Purpose of the Position: The Direct Program Worker plays a vital role in providing direct care and supervision to youth in a 24/7 trauma-informed live-in setting. The position supports the emotional, physical, and developmental needs of youth aged 12 to 18 who are in emergency placement due to complex circumstances. 

The Direct Program Worker is responsible for creating a stable, safe, and supportive environment while delivering individualized care and supporting the daily operation of the residence in accordance with agency values, licensing standards, and youth's voice. 

Type: Full-Time, Part-Time, Casual Reports to: Program Manager Location: Laurencrest Youth Services Inc., Cornwall, Ontario Program: Two-Bed Emergency Residential Placement Program (Youth aged 12–18) 

Key Responsibilities: 

Daily Care & Supervision:

• Provide direct and consistent, one-on-one and group supervision within a structuredenvironment.
• Facilitate and supervise daily routines, including hygiene, meals, chores, homework,and recreational activities.
• Model and reinforce healthy life skills, boundaries, and coping strategies.
• Support youth in moments of emotional distress using de-escalation and trauma-informed approaches.
• Conduct room and safety checks, monitor well-being, and respond to safety concernsas they arise.

Therapeutic & Case Support:

• Build authentic, supportive relationships with youth grounded in trust, compassion,and consistency.
• Participate in intake and discharge processes in collaboration with the ProgramManager and referring partners.
• Contribute to youth-specific plans of care and case conferences as needed.
• Support the documentation of behaviours, incidents, and progress in accordance withMinistry and agency standards.

Team Collaboration:

• Maintain open communication with the staff team, participating in shift handovers andregular team meetings.
• Work collaboratively with clinical staff, health professionals, child welfare workers,and families.
• Ensure the home remains clean, safe, and youth-ready at all times, assisting withhousehold responsibilities as required.

Other Duties:

• Administer medication as trained and authorized.
• Transport youth to appointments, school, or community activities as needed.
• Participate in an on-call rotation and be available for emergency support outsideregular hours.
• Engage in ongoing professional development and training.

Qualifications:

• College diploma or university degree in Child and Youth Care, Social Service Work, Psychology, or a related field.
• Minimum 1–2 years of experience working directly with youth in residential, live-in,or intensive support environments.
• Understanding of trauma-informed care, youth mental health, and crisis de-escalation.
• Strong interpersonal skills with a non-judgmental, youth-centered approach.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Comfortable working a flexible schedule, including days, evenings, weekends,holidays, and overnight shifts.
• Valid Ontario driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle.
• Valid First Aid/CPR certification.
• Clear Vulnerable Sector Criminal Record Check.
• Bilingualism (French/English) is mandatory

Hours & Employment Types:

• Full-time: 40 hours per week
• Part-time and Casual: Variable hours based on program needs and scheduling.
• On-call responsibilities may be required to ensure 24/7 coverage and crisis response

Compensation:

• Competitive wage/salary commensurate with experience.
• Benefits package available for full-time positions after the probationary period.
• Paid training and ongoing professional development opportunities.

How to Apply:

Please send your application to Megan Laroche, BA-TR, MBA, MSW Executive Director Laurencrest Youth Services Inc. 

Email:  megan.laroche@laurencrest.ca

Laurencrest Youth Services Inc. is committed to employment equity and welcomes applications from individuals of all backgrounds, identities, and lived experiences. We strive to create a safe and inclusive environment for both staff and youth.

If you require accommodations during the recruitment process, please contact Megan Laroche, Executive Director. All information will be handled with the utmost confidentiality in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA).