Young Adult Support Worker - Waterford

Role Overview

The Irish Wheelchair Association (IWA) is inviting applications for a full-time Young Adult Support Worker position located in Waterford. This specified purpose role (funding dependent) focuses on aiding school leavers with physical disabilities through programs at Community Centres and Hubs. The initiative aims to develop personal, social, and developmental inclusion for young adults, enabling active community participation.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist the implementation of group workshops and activities tailored to young adults' preferences and needs, supporting Service Coordinators and Support Officers.
• Provide personalized support aligned with the Association’s person-centered approach to help young adults achieve individual goals.
• Support participation in rehabilitative training activities.
• Assist with safe transportation of participants following established Transport Handbook guidelines.
• Help young adults with personal care and daily living tasks as outlined by individual support plans.
• Accompany and assist during outings, social events, and holidays.
• Promote and empower independence through interaction and support.
• Maintain both physical and digital records as requested by coordinators.
• Take part in training modules as assigned by supervisors.
• Adhere strictly to health and safety protocols, reporting hazards or incidents appropriately.
• Perform additional duties as assigned, maintaining compliance with safeguarding policies for children and adults.

Qualifications and Experience

• Essential: QQI Level 5 Major Award in Healthcare Support or equivalent qualification including Community Health Services, Health Service Skills, Health Care Support, or Youth Work.
• Valid clean driving license is mandatory.
• Prior experience delivering projects or programs and working with people with disabilities is required.
• Solid understanding of health, safety, and transport regulations.
• Experience or willingness to drive transit vans for transporting disabled individuals is desirable.
• Strong organizational and interpersonal skills.

Personal Traits and Competencies

• Ability to collaborate effectively within a team and operate independently.
• Capability to establish robust relationships at all levels with confidence.
• Customer service oriented mindset.
• Competencies include communication, motivation, innovation, planning, and customer focus.

Compensation and Benefits

• Annual salary ranging from €33,621 to €37,425 or €16.52 to €18.39 hourly, depending on experience.
• Excellent working conditions with access to training and developmental programs.
• 25 days paid annual leave (pro-rata).
• Participation in a Defined Contribution pension scheme.
• Eligibility for Health Cash Plans and Employee Assistance Service.

Additional Information

• Applications close on Wednesday 26th August 2026.
• Documentary proof of qualifications required before or during recruitment.