We would like to invite applications for the following position;
Specified Purpose Contract 39 hrs per week (covering long term absence)
Programme Assistant
An Castan – Navan
Ranked 2nd in The Irish Independent “Ireland's Best Employer 2025” list
IWA is committed to promoting, maintaining, and adding to our diverse and inclusive work environment
As a Programme Assistant you will be expected to develop, implement, and lead programmes, projects and individualised support to members engaging in the Community Centre.
The objectives of the Community Centre are to provide pathways for people with disability to participate fully in the community, by means of establishing developmental, personal, and social inclusion programmes. You will be required to undertake and ensure the execution of such other tasks/duties as may be deemed necessary to the successful implementation of the programme.
Liaison
Close liaison is required with the Service Co-Ordinator, Service Support Officer, colleagues, volunteers, members, and their families. Links will also be made with relevant voluntary and statutory agencies and educational institutes.
Main Duties and Responsibilities
Develop and lead the implementation of Resource and Outreach Programmes as set by the Service Co-ordinator and Service Support Officer in line with the Resources and Outreach Operational Manual
Support the development of Youth Services in the area
Facilitate opportunities for members to access community facilities and engage in community and other activities
Support individual service users in line with the Associations Person Centred Approach and through the Individual Support Service
Prepare and maintain records as required by the Operational Manual, Service Coordinator and Service Support Officer
Mentor and support staff in all aspects of programme delivery
Accompany and support participants on annual holidays, outings, social and day trips as required
Support and engage with a change management process in line with HSE New Direction standards as required by the Service Coordinator
Actively ensure that standards and practices regarding health and safety are fully adhered to in all Community Centre activities and in the centre itself
Record and report any hazards or accidents to the Service Co-ordinator
To comply with IWA's Parent and Ancillary Safety Statements and any legislative duties set out in current Health and Safety and Fire Safety Legislation
The use of clamping, hoisting and lifting equipment are an essential part of this role
Patient moving and handling; assist with personal care of service users where required
Ensure that your work and interactions with others is such that it promotes and enhances the independence of the service user
Undertake training as directed by the Service Co-ordinator
Ensure that your responsibilities to safeguard children and adults from abuse or harm is a core aspect of your role and that IWA’s Safeguarding Policies and Procedures are adhered to
Flexibility and availability for out of hours service activities i.e. evenings and weekends
Support the fundraising function within IWA
Carry out other duties and/or responsibilities which may be assigned to you from time to time
PERSON SPECIFICATION
Training, Experience and Qualifications
QQI level 5 (Major Award) in Health Care Support or similar (a minimum of 5 modules completed and working towards the Major Award may be accepted)
QQI Major Awards that are deemed relevant to IWA are:
Community Health Services (to include minor components Safety Health at Work and Care Provision Practice)
Health Service Skills (to include minor components, Workplace Statutory Policies Procedures, Care Skills and Care Support)
Health Care Support (to include minor components, Safety Health at Work, Care Skills and Care Support)
Full Category B Driving Licence is desirable
Some experience working within the Intellectual Disability area would be an advantage
Knowledge and Skills
Previous experience of networking, facilitation, development and delivery of projects or programmes is required
Previous experience of working with people with disabilities is required
Strong computer and administration skills are essential
Behaviours
The ability to work as part of a team and work on own initiative
An ability to build strong relationships at all levels and show confidence among the team
Strong customer service focus
Be of good character
Competencies
Communicating and Influencing
Motivating and Empowering
Innovation and Creativity
Planning and Organising
Quality and Customer Focus
Remuneration Benefits
The current pay scale is subject to a 9.25% pay increase over the next 2 years (up to October 2026), aligning with the recent WRC agreement aimed at enhancing pay adjustments within Section 39 organizations.
Salary range on offer for this position is €15.39 to €17.12 per hour DOE
Excellent working conditions
Training Development opportunities
25 days annual leave
Access to Pension, Group VHI / HSF Health Cash Plans
Employee Assistance Service
The closing date for receipt of applications is Tuesday, 2nd September 2025
Documentary evidence of your relevant qualification(s) will be required in advance of or during the recruitment process.
