Support Worker

Role overview

Corlann, West Region, is hiring two permanent full-time Support Workers for Orchard Services in Gort, County Galway. The role sits within a service designed to create a safe and supportive setting where people can take part in community and leisure activities, make their own choices, gain new experiences, and live in a way that supports their potential and expectations. The organisation is looking for imaginative, forward-thinking people who can contribute positively to this vision.

What the role involves

The Support Worker reports to the Team Leader and plays an important part in day-to-day support delivery. The post requires someone who can work flexibly, respond to the changing needs of the individuals supported, and contribute to a high-quality service environment.

Reporting line

Support Workers will be accountable to the Team Leader, Team Manager, Service Coordinator, and Area Manager.

Qualifications and education

Applicants should have a solid general education. A recognised qualification in intellectual disability care or a FETAC Level 5 course is beneficial. A full, clean, manual Irish driving licence is preferred, and the successful candidate must commit to securing a full licence within nine months of starting, as driving service vehicles is essential. In some service areas, applicants without a full, clean, manual Irish driving licence may not be eligible. A Class D1 licence may also be required, and support will be provided to help obtain it.

Language and communication

Strong spoken and written English is essential for this position.

Experience background

Previous work in the healthcare sector is required. Experience supporting people with intellectual disabilities and challenging behaviour is an advantage, and training will be provided. Exposure to supporting people with autism, complex medical needs, or mental health needs is also helpful. Experience with Laimh is an added advantage.

Core skills

Candidates should be flexible, able to communicate well, work effectively in a team, and bring enthusiasm to the role. Strong IT skills are also essential.

Working pattern

The role is based on 78 hours per fortnight and operates on a 7-day roster. Working patterns may include sleepovers, split shifts, day shifts, night duty, weekends, and public holidays. Staff are expected to adapt their availability in line with the service’s Personal Outcome Measures model to support consistent service delivery.

Leave and pay

Annual leave entitlement is 22 days per year. Pay is based on the Department of Health Care Assistant (Disability Services) scale, with a salary range from €34,881 to €47,624 pro rata per annum across 11 increments. A Long Service Increment of €48,434 pro rata per annum becomes payable after three years at the top of the scale. Extra payments are made for weekend, public holiday, and night work when applicable.

Employment terms

This is a permanent, full-time and pensionable position. A probation period of nine months applies from the start date. During this period, employment may end if the employer decides the appointee is not suitable. The probation period may also be extended at the employer’s discretion.

Additional information

Informal enquiries can be made to Margaret Kearney, Area Manager, or Brendan Gantley, Service Coordinator, at 091 631530. The closing date for online submission of completed application forms and CVs is 5pm on Thursday 2 July 2026. The interview date will be confirmed later. Corlann is an equal opportunities employer.

Reference

Job reference: 99758.