What does a Developmental Services Worker (620D) do?

Developmental Services Workers support people with a developmental disability, helping to enhance their capacity to function in all aspects of community living and support the full inclusion of Ontarians with disabilities in all aspects of society.

Job Related Skills, Interests and Values

  • Promotes development of life skills including personal care, housekeeping, social skills, job readiness, and parenting skills
  • Models and promotes healthy lifestyle while maintaining safe environment
  • Manages and administers medication according to physician's orders; monitors and records individual reaction to medication
  • Applies crisis intervention strategies calmly and effectively; quickly and effectively responds to situations
  • Participates in the development and implementation of individually directed plans and goals
  • Supports individuals to develop and maintain relationships with a variety of people; facilitates family and community relationship building
  • Develops self-awareness and maintains professionalism at all times

What Preparation and Training Do You Need?

  • Secondary school diploma with English credits; social services co-op an asset
  • Completion of 4,500-hour apprenticeship, including on-the-job and in-school training

What's Your Future as a Developmental Services Worker (620D)?

  • Range of work settings supporting wide range of individuals with varying needs
  • Many work in residential settings; may live on-site or work with clients in drop-in setting
  • Employers include schools, social assistance providers, nursing homes, and residential care facilities

Wage Rate

Apprentice wage increases with skill and experience. Fully qualified workers make an average of $19.00 per hour.

Self-Rating

Developmental Services Worker (620D)

Ask Yourself: Yes No
Do you have excellent communication skills? Are you comfortable working in high-stress situations?
Do you have good problem-solving skills? Can you make quick decisions?
Are you able to leave your work at work? Do you have the maturity and strength to deal with highly sensitive situations?
Are you able to follow Health & Safety guidelines? Do you have a clean criminal record?
Are you creative and flexible to consider all methods or treatments?
Do you have the ability to work closely with others?
Are you reliable, a self-starter and able to work with minimal supervision?


If you checked YES to the majority of these questions, a career as a Developmental Services Worker (620D) may be for you!

You might want to look at these similar trades as well;

  • Child & Youth Worker
  • Educational Assistant
  • Early Childhood Educator
  • Personal Support Worker
  • Social Worker
  • Psychologist

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