Social Care Worker/ Autism Practitioner

Join Our Team at Gheel Autism Services -Day Services Model
Social Care Worker / Autism Practitioner – Specified purpose contract

• Location: North Dublin
• Salary Range: €37,096 – €53,674 per annum.
• Salary Growth: Sector-wide pay agreement will provide for a 2% increase from the 1st of April 2026.

Are you passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals with autism? Do you have experience in the social care or disability sector and a commitment to person-centred support? If so, we have an exciting opportunity for you to join our innovative and dynamic team at Gheel Autism Services!

Who We Are
At Gheel Autism Services, we are dedicated to supporting individuals with autism through their life journey. Our mission is to enable people to have fulfilling life experiences while promoting autonomy and empowering them to make their own choices. Our services include day and vocational opportunities, outreach support, and various supported living options.

We take a strengths-based approach, tailoring personalised plans to meet each individual’s unique needs. Our team is committed to fostering independence, social inclusion, and overall well-being, ensuring that each person achieves outcomes that are meaningful to them.

Why Join Us?

As part of the Gheel team, you will receive:

• Professional Growth: Training, career progression, and education support.
• Wellbeing Support: Employee Assistance Programme, reflective practice, and supportive supervision.
• Annual Leave: 25 days, plus various leave types such as paid maternity and paternity leave (dependant on service).
• Financial Benefits: Competitive salary, annual increments, pension 
• Travel & Discounts: Bike-to-Work and an Employee Discount Scheme.

About the Role
Gheel Autism Services provides person-cantered day opportunities across Dublin, offering unique and tailored supports based on the choices, needs, and aspirations of the individuals we support.

As part of our dedicated team, you will work closely with autistic adults to support them in building meaningful and independent lives. This includes helping individuals develop daily living skills, build confidence in managing their own routines, and explore pathways into education, training, and employment. You will also support them in accessing and participating in recreational and social activities that align with their interests and promote community inclusion. Each day is an opportunity to make a real impact by encouraging self-determination and helping individuals achieve personal goals.

Our services are evolving in line with the New Directions model of service delivery, placing strong emphasis on person-led planning, community involvement, and sensory-aware environments. This approach ensures that every person receives personalised support in a way that reflects their needs, preferences, and communication styles.

While our day services generally operate Monday to Friday during daytime hours, some flexibility may be required to accommodate the individual needs of those we support. In return, we offer a warm and collaborative working environment, annual salary increments, and strong opportunities for career progression and professional development through continuous training and support.

Essential Qualifications:
• Level 7 qualification in Social Care/Studies from an accredited institution, OR
• A recognised qualification equivalent to the Irish Level 7 award (NARIC), OR
• Relevant third-level degree in social work, psychology, or allied health, OR
• Post-graduate qualification in Autism Studies.

Essential Criteria:
• Excellent communication and engagement skills.
• At least one year of recent experience in a similar role.
• Ability to promote independence in individuals with support needs.
• CORU Registration.

Desirable Criteria:
• Experience supporting individuals with ASD and knowledge of autism.
• Experience in case management.
• A full, clean driving licence.

Gheel Autism Services CLG is proud to be an inclusive employer and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to ensure a fair and accessible recruitment process for individuals with disabilities. If you require any adjustments or support to participate fully in any stage of the process, please contact us at recruitment@gheel.ie.

Ready to Apply?
To join our team, submit your cover letter and up-to-date CV. Applications will be shortlisted based on the evidence provided. The application deadline is the 11th of January 2026, at 5 PM, with interviews scheduled shortly after. Garda Vetting is required, and late applications will not be accepted.

Be Part of Our Vision
Join Gheel Autism Services and help create a culture of inclusive, independence-focused support. Together, we can empower individuals to live fulfilling lives and achieve their dreams. Apply today to make a difference!