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Direct Support Worker Jobs in Alberta (NOW HIRING)

Inn From The Cold

Family Support Worker

Calgary, AB

The Shelter Family Support Worker (FSW) offer direct support to families experiencing or at risk of homelessness, ensuring smooth daily operations offer a safe, welcoming, and well-managed shelter ...

Inn From The Cold

Family Support Worker

Calgary, AB · On-site

The Shelter Family Support Worker (FSW) offer direct support to families experiencing or at risk of homelessness, ensuring smooth daily operations offer a safe, welcoming, and well-managed shelter ...

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All JobsDirect Support Worker JobsDirect Support Worker Jobs in Alberta

Direct Support Worker information

See Alberta salary details

$6

$12

$19

How much do direct support worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support worker in Alberta is $12.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $9.38 and $14.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a direct support worker?

As a direct support worker, you provide care and training for people with developmental disabilities. You offer community support by using your skills and experience to help individuals become more active and social. Some direct support workers provide live-in, 24-hour support for clients, while others provide care on a regular, but less constant, basis. A career as a direct support worker requires you have some formal qualifications and education, typically a bachelor’s degree in health, counseling, or a related field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a direct support worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Direct Support Worker, you need a foundational understanding of person-centered care, basic health and safety practices, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with documentation systems, assistive technology, and first aid/CPR certification is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and the ability to communicate compassionately make someone stand out in this role. These skills are crucial to effectively support individuals with disabilities, ensure their well-being, and foster independence in daily living.

What are some common challenges faced by direct support workers, and how can they be managed effectively?

Direct Support Workers often encounter challenges such as managing clients with complex behavioral or medical needs and adapting to varying routines. Effective communication, patience, and ongoing training are essential in navigating these situations. Building strong, trusting relationships with clients and collaborating closely with families and healthcare professionals can also help manage difficulties. Many organizations provide regular supervision and access to support networks, which can be valuable resources for addressing workplace challenges.

What is the difference between Direct Support Worker vs Personal Care Assistant?

AspectDirect Support WorkerPersonal Care Assistant
CertificationsOften requires certifications like CPR, First Aid, and sometimes specialized trainingMay require similar certifications, especially First Aid and CPR, but less specialized training
Work EnvironmentSupports individuals with disabilities, mental health, or developmental needs in community or residential settingsProvides personal care services in clients' homes or healthcare facilities
Employer & IndustryNonprofits, government agencies, healthcare providersHome healthcare agencies, private households, healthcare facilities

Both roles involve assisting individuals with daily activities, but Direct Support Workers typically work with people with disabilities or mental health needs in community settings, while Personal Care Assistants mainly provide personal care in home or healthcare environments. The certifications and work environments overlap, but the focus and client needs differ slightly.

Where do direct support workers get paid the most?

Direct support workers tend to earn higher wages in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for healthcare services, such as urban areas or states with higher minimum wages. Factors like experience, certifications, and the specific employer also influence pay rates, with some private agencies offering higher compensation than public programs.
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Direct Support Worker jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Worker job openings in Alberta as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $25,967 per year, or $12.5 per hour.

Disability Support Worker (Intervenor/American Sign Language)

Calgary SCOPE

Calgary, AB

$20.26 - $27.69/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

DISABILITY SUPPORT WORKER (INTERVENOR/AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE)


The Scope Society of Alberta is seeking Relief Support Workers who preferably have knowledge of American Sign Language (ASL), or are willing to learn ASL, and have experience in mental health. Successful candidates will work a variety of evening, weekend, overnight, and day shifts. Support Workers provide direct support to adults with developmental disabilities who are Deaf or Deafblind and have accompanying mental health, social, emotional, and/or behavioural concerns.

RESPONSIBILITIES

As a Community Support Worker, you will be responsible for:

  • Promoting individual goals and aspirations
  • Supporting daily activities (e.g., volunteer, paid employment, leisure interests, etc.)
  • Providing mental health and behavioral support
  • Providing support to maintain health (i.e., attending medical appointment, medication administration, liaising with pharmacy, emotional support, etc.)
  • Providing aspects of home maintenance and supporting daily routines (meal preparation, cleaning, laundry, etc.)
  • Supporting the development and maintenance of meaningful relationships
  • Supporting choice, rights and responsibilities and promoting and facilitating empowerment

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

  • Post-secondary education in a related field (e.g., diploma or degree in Disability Studies, Social Work, Psychology, etc.) along with 1 - 2 years of experience working with adults with developmental disabilities who have a dual diagnosis (an accompanying mental health diagnosis) or an equivalent combination.
  • American Sign Language 101 or higher, as well as an understanding of the role of Intervenors and/or Deaf or Deafblind experience
  • Ability to work in a team environment. Strong communication and organizational skills and the ability to establish collaborative and effective relationships with others are required for this position.
  • Training in First Aid and CPR, CPI (Crisis Prevention and Intervention Training) and Vecova Medication Administration are an asset.

We offer a supportive team environment, flexible hours, training (including American Sign Language classes) and competitive wages and benefits.

HOW TO APPLY

Interested applicants are invited to submit a cover letter and resume via e-mail quoting Position #INT0826 to:

Human Resources

Email - employment@scopesociety.ca

We thank everyone for their interest; only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

Benefits:

  • Dental care
  • Disability insurance
  • Extended health care
  • Flexible schedule
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision care

Schedule:

  • 12-hour shift
  • 4-hour shift
  • 8-hour shift
  • Day shift
  • Evening shift
  • Monday to Friday
  • Night shift
  • Weekends

Language:

  • American Sign Language (preferred)

Apply