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Direct Support Worker Jobs in Alberta (NOW HIRING)

Inn From The Cold

Family Support Worker

Calgary, AB · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • PTO

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 ...

New

Inn From The Cold

Family Support Worker

Calgary, AB · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • PTO

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 ...

New

YWCA Calgary

Program Support Worker

Calgary, AB

The Program Support Worker plays a vital role in supporting women experiencing poverty, addictions ... Privacy inquiries can be directed to the attention of the Privacy Officer at reply@mindfulworkplace ...

Aramark

Dietary Worker

Rocky View County, AB

The Dietary Worker provides patient support via phone and software systems and serves as a liaison ... directing calls from patients as it relates to their meal or other nutritional needs • Uses ...

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All JobsDirect Support Worker JobsDirect Support Worker Jobs in Alberta

Direct Support Worker information

See Alberta salary details

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How much do direct support worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 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 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 are the duties of a direct support worker?

A direct support worker provides assistance to individuals with disabilities or chronic health conditions, helping with daily activities such as personal care, meal preparation, medication management, and transportation. They also support clients in developing independence and social skills, often working in community or residential settings and following care plans under supervision.

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.

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 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.

More about Direct Support Worker jobs

What cities in Alberta are hiring for Direct Support Worker jobs?

Cities in Alberta with the most Direct Support Worker job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Direct Support Worker jobs in AB?

For Direct Support Worker jobs in AB, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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, 72% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $25,967 per year, or $12.5 per hour.

Disability Support Worker

Rocky Support Services Society

Rocky Mountain House, AB • On-site

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

We are seeking compassionate and dedicated individuals to join our Rocky Support Services Society team as Community Disability Services Practitioners.


As a support worker, you will provide essential care and support to individuals with disabilities ensuring their safety, well-being, and overall quality of life.


Duties:

  • Assist individuals with disabilities in their daily activities, including personal hygiene, dressing, and meal preparation
  • Help individuals participate in recreational activities and community outings
  • Provide companionship and emotional support to individuals
  • Administer medication as directed by healthcare professionals
  • Assist with mobility and transportation needs
  • Collaborate with professionals and family members to develop and implement care and support plans
  • Maintain a clean and safe environment for individuals
  • Document and report any changes in behavior or health status to the appropriate supervisor
  • Assist, support and encourage clients to be self-advocates
  • Monitoring and support with budgets and spending
  • Maintaining open lines of communication with others, observing and coaching other employees; assisting with training
  • Executing all tasks assigned by the Team Leader or Manager diligently, on schedule
  • Participating in meetings and training, voicing concerns as well as suggestions for improvement


Requirements:

  • Compassionate and patient demeanor
  • Strong organizational skills to assist with meal preparation and medication administration
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to fill out the required documentation 
  • Ability to work independently as well as part of a team
  • Criminal Record Check; including Vulnerable Sector (within the last 3 months)
  • Class 5 license, copy of driver's abstract, and proof of insurance for 2 million liability also required.


We Offer:

  • Paid internal, external, and site specific training opportunities
  • Competitive wages
  • Employee friendly policies including paid time off for vacation and sick time 
  • Employee health benefits with permanent 30+ hours/week position


If you are passionate about making a difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities, we encourage you to apply for this rewarding role.