The Health Care Assistant Role
We require health care assistant as we continue to expand to provide additional services to meet the needs of those we care for, we currently have a number of opportunities within our Orchard Community Care division in Waterford City for full time and part time Health Care Assistants. As a Health Care Assistant with us you will engage in daily activities and routines of the service, inclusive of direct support to service users, administration work and daily household tasks required of the role. You will be required to work as part of a dedicated and innovative team providing a service to the people we support in line with HIQA regulations & standards. As we provide specialist services 24 hrs a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, working hours are operated on a shift basis, which include sleep in's and waking night duty as required. Due to the nature of the position some flexibility may be required from time to time in relation to hours of work.
Essential Requirements:
- Relevant QQI Level 5 Healthcare qualifications or equivalent
- Minimum of 1 year experience in a similar environment supporting adults or children with intellectual and physical disabilities.
- Knowledge of adults/children with complex needs.
- Full manual drivers licence is mandatory with eligibility to drive in Ireland
- Eligible to live and work in Ireland
Health Care Assistant Main Responsibilities
- Assist with the child/adults’ activities and care as assigned by the Manager and as indicated in the person’s integrated Care Plan ensuring the delivery of a high standard of care
- Encourage recognition of the child/adult as an individual ensuring that they and their family’s needs and comforts are given priority.
- To act as an advocate for the child/adult and family ensuring the provision of appropriate information and support.
- Develop social interaction for the people we support individually and in a group setting.
- To be aware of the uses, safety precautions and handling of equipment.
- To participate in all communication processes – team meetings/staff forums/emails.
- Ensure personal care is provided to the people we support when required.
- Maintain and uphold the organisations and the people we support’s confidentiality at all times.
- Flexible and willing to work shifts, as part of the rolling roster to meet the needs of the service.
IND
Benefits to working with Company As a Health Care Assistant
- Comprehensive induction process
- Extensive training programme
- On-going mentoring and support
- Continuous Professional Development support
- Career progression opportunities
- Competitive salary with increments
- Premium rates paid on Sunday and Bank Holidays
- Flexible work schedule to accommodate both staff and service users
- 4 working weeks as annual leave
- Refer a friend initiative
- Working in a well-resourced environment with access to the multidisciplinary team
- Employee Assistance Programme for staff and their families
Here are the most frequently asked questions (FAQs) for Health Care Assistants (HCAs) in Ireland, based on current guidelines and recruitment practices:
General FAQs
What does a Health Care Assistant do?
A Health Care Assistant supports nurses and other healthcare professionals by helping patients with daily living activities such as bathing, dressing, eating, and mobility. They also provide social and emotional support, ensuring patients feel safe and comfortable51.
Where do Health Care Assistants work?
HCAs work in hospitals, nursing homes, community care, and in clients’ homes53.
Is there a demand for Health Care Assistants in Ireland?
Yes, healthcare assistants are highly in demand due to staffing shortages and an aging population45.
Qualifications and Training
What qualifications do I need?
You need a QQI Level 5 (formerly FETAC Level 5) qualification in relevant modules such as:
-
Care Skills
-
Care of the Older Person
-
Healthcare Support
-
Health Service Skills
-
Community Health Services
For home care roles, if you have less than one year of paid experience, you must have both Care Skills and Care of the Older Person certificates. If you have more than one year of paid experience (within the last three years), you must commit to obtaining these certificates within 11 months.
Do I need to register with a regulatory body?
After completing your training, you must register with the appropriate regulating organization (such as CORU for some roles) and obtain Garda (police) clearance before working with vulnerable persons.
Application and Employment
What documents are needed to apply?
You will need:
-
Proof of qualifications
-
Garda Vetting clearance
-
Contact details for referees
-
Eircode (post code)
-
Permission to work in Ireland (for non-EEA applicants)
Do I need my own transport?
You need access to suitable personal transport, especially for home care roles, as you may be required to travel to different clients’ homes.
Will I be paid for travel?
If travel is required as part of your role, you will be paid for travel and subsistence at Department of Health rates, in line with HSE standards.
Are there opportunities for career progression?
Yes, HCAs can progress to higher qualifications and roles within the healthcare sector.
International Applicants
Can non-EU citizens work as Health Care Assistants in Ireland?
Yes, work visas are available for non-EU healthcare assistants. You must meet salary requirements (minimum €27,000 per year for a 39-hour week), and have proof of English proficiency (such as IELTS 6.0–7.0 or OET B to C+).
Interview Preparation
What questions might I be asked in an interview?
Common interview questions include:
-
Why do you want to be a healthcare assistant?
-
What skills do you bring to the role?
-
How do you handle pressure?
-
What does patient care mean to you?
-
Are you available for night shifts or weekends?
What is expected of me in the role?
You are expected to be compassionate, reliable, flexible, and able to work well in a team. Strong communication skills and a willingness to learn are essential.
If you have specific questions about your situation, feel free to ask for more details.
- https://www.jobs.ie/job-talk/healthcare-assistant-frequently-asked-questions/
- https://ie.indeed.com/career-advice/interviewing/healthcare-assistant-interview-questions-ireland
- https://hbsrecruitmentservices.ie/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/FAQs-Health-Care-Support-Assistant.pdf
- https://chevrontraining.ie/healthcare-level-5-faq/
- https://forustraining.ie/latest-news/becoming-a-healthcare-assistant-in-ireland-all-that-you-need-to-know/
- https://mmarecruitment.com/care-in-ireland/
- https://coru.ie/social-care-workers/faqs%20for%20social%20care%20workers/
- https://cseconnect.ie/healthcare-assistant-interview-questions/
To apply for this job please visit www.irishjobs.ie.