South Africa: Companion for Neurodivergent Young Adult in Noordhoek, Cape Town posted by The Neurodiversity Centre

We are seeking a compassionate, energetic, and understanding companion to support a vibrant young woman in her early 20s with autism and developmental delay. This half-day role offers the opportunity to build a meaningful connection while supporting her daily life through structured, creative, and socially engaging activities.

She enjoys horse riding, creative outings, and listening to Taylor Swift. The ideal candidate will bring warmth, humour, and creativitysomeone who can contextualise situations, provide executive functioning support, and help her develop social skills in a constructive, age-appropriate way.

Main Purpose of the job:

To provide companionship, guidance, and support in daily activities, fostering independence and social connection through structure and creativity. A genuine passion for neurodiversity and being a secure, long-term source of support are of utmost importance.

Job Objectives:

       Plan structured, enjoyable activities such as visits to the clay caf, stables, and other social or therapeutic programs, in collaboration with the family and by using a client-led approach.

       To carry out duties such as facilitating daily and therapeutic activities and taking her on outings and to appointments.

       Providing daily companionship and emotional support for her.

       Support and scaffolding for her regulation needs (lessening any uncertainty and anxiety).

       Supporting the understanding of her individual difference sensory profile, and executive functioning (i.e. assisting with creating a routine with the use of visual aids).

       Collaborate with the multidisciplinary team to ensure a neuro-affirming approach.

       Facilitate opportunities for social connection with peers in age-appropriate contexts.

Requirements

General Requirements:

       A valid drivers license, driving experience and a clean driving record Essential.

       Well-spoken in English Essential.

Job-Related work experience:

       Previous experience in a role supporting neurodivergent individuals – Essential. 

       Familiarity with autism spectrum disorder and neurodevelopmental presentations Essential. 

       Familiarity with and knowledge of low arousal, client-led, neuro-affirming practices Desirable. 

       Willingness to be trained in supporting neurodiverse individuals – Essential

Job-Related Skills:

       Ability to assist with planning and implementing daily activities with her using a creative and flexible approach Essential.

       Ability to minimise stress and anxiety by utilising a low arousal approach – Essential.

       Organisational skills, i.e., ability to implement structure, strong time management imperative – Essential.

       Social and life skills Essential.

       Relationship-building skills Essential.

       Emotionally grounded with excellent self-regulation and personal accountability

       Able to maintain balance in dynamic situations

       Patience, empathy, and a commitment to building a trusting, supportive relationship with her. 

       Ability to guide and support in both structured and unstructured environments, balancing life skill teaching, support and fun. 

       Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with the family and other support systems. 

       Flexible and adaptable, able to adjust to the clients needs and schedule. 

Benefits

       Support and training from a multi-disciplinary team knowledgeable in the field of Neurodiversity.

Working hours:

Half-day position: Afternoons (13:0017:00)

Salary Range:

       Travel costs incurred while actively fulfilling the duties of this role will be reimbursed at AA rates. Commuting between home and the primary work location is excluded.