Care Assistant (Residential Facility)

About the Position

As a Care Assistant in a residential setting in Castlecomer, County Kilkenny, you will be part of a dedicated team supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities to live independent and fulfilling lives. Your focus will be on providing person-centred support that upholds each individual's autonomy, dignity, and preferences. Each day offers the chance to make a positive impact—helping people build life skills, encouraging community participation, and supporting their confidence and independence.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide tailored support in accordance with individual needs, goals, and preferences.
• Serve as a Key Worker, actively participating in the creation, monitoring, and review of personalised support plans.
• Promote independence, self-direction, and personal responsibility in day-to-day activities.
• Assist with daily living tasks, including personal and intimate care requirements.
• Support and encourage community involvement, social engagement, and exploration of new experiences.
• Ensure all communication with individuals is clear and tailored to their understanding.
• Apply positive behaviour support techniques and low-arousal approaches in daily practice.
• Assist individuals in managing their finances and personal obligations, following organisational standards.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues, families, and external professionals to maintain consistent and high-quality support.
• Contribute to continuous improvement and uphold a safe, quality-driven environment.
• Prioritise health, safety, and wellbeing in accordance with HIQA standards and organisational procedures.
• Administer and manage medications safely, as per policy guidelines.
• Maintain accurate records and commit to ongoing training and reflective practice.
• Uphold safeguarding practices, ensure respect and accountability, and address concerns appropriately using established protocols.

Qualifications & Experience

• QQI Level 5 Major Award in Healthcare (completion of all 8 modules required).
• Prior work in the field of intellectual disability or autism is advantageous.
• Experience in person-centred care preferred.
• Understanding and (preferably) experience in positive behaviour support and low-arousal techniques.

Skills & Knowledge

• Understanding of the key worker role in intellectual disability services.
• Familiarity with the Health Act 2007, HIQA standards, and related regulations.
• Knowledge of rights-based, person-centred support processes.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and teamwork abilities.
• Problem-solving skills and capability to work both independently and collaboratively.
• Organisational skills and proficiency with IT systems.
• Dedication to ongoing professional development and learning.

Role Details

• Full-time contract, working shifts that may include evenings, overnight (sleepover), and weekends.
• Reporting to the Residential Manager.

Additional Requirements

• Full, clean Irish driving license is mandatory.

Compensation & Benefits

• Remuneration as per HSE Consolidated Care Assistant Pay Scale (€34,536–€47,954 per year).
• Pension scheme and death-in-service benefit.
• Generous annual leave and sick pay scheme.
• Access to professional development and educational assistance.
• Employee discount and savings programs, bike-to-work scheme.
• Comprehensive health and wellbeing initiatives.
• Supportive and inclusive team environment.

Diversity & Inclusion

The organisation fosters a culture of equality, diversity, and respect, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds.

Safeguarding & Pre-employment Checks

All offers are subject to Garda vetting and satisfactory reference checks. Applicants are required to explain any employment gaps in their CV. Shortlisting may apply.