Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do you have questions about URSA and our employment opportunities? Here is a list of frequently asked questions that can help. If your question is not listed, please contact us.
Where are your locations? Where are you located?
We proudly offer over 25 programs across Calgary, with our main office located at 808 Manning Road NE, Calgary, AB. We are also thrilled to announce our expansion into Airdrie with the launch of The North Stars- our Airdrie Day Program! This exciting addition allows us to bring URSA’s wholistic approach to supporting individuals to the Airdrie and area community, fostering connections and providing meaningful services tailored to their needs. Based on your strengths and the needs of the programs, job placement can occur at any program.
How many individuals in a program?
URSA supports over 300 individuals in a group setting and in the community. Our typical model to support individuals in a group home is 1 staff to 3 clients. However, client needs may vary.
What kind of benefits do you have at URSA?
As an employee of the organization, after your 6-month probation, you will receive quite a robust benefits package. For permanent staff, we have dental, Health Spending Account, and paramedical services such as chiropractor and massage therapy. We also have an RRSP plan with employer contributions and an optional TFSA account available for all employees to use.
Do you need education to work at URSA?
For most of our identified positions in our frontline (CRW, AON, Relief, LPN, RN, HCA) we require education in the field and primary source verification. This means the school registrar, or a third-party verifier, will confirm through either transcripts and/or a verified letter of attendance that you attended and graduated your program with our People Services Department directly. This can be completed by mail, email, or a third-party verifier. As well, health care professionals regulated by a provincial body such as the HCA Directory, CLPNA, and CARNA can be used to verify your credentials.
Although, some positions depending on the program may only require certain years of experience in the field to be considered for the role.
Do you accept portability hours? Do you recognize previous experience for an increase in pay?
Unfortunately not at this time. At URSA, we have our starting rates for each position and an increase in pay will only be based on your years of service and performance.
What does a typical day look like working at URSA?
Each day depends on which program you will be a part of and your position. Mainly, we support individuals in activity daily living (ADL) such as bathing, toileting, feeding, medication administration, grooming, etc. We are very community-based and support individuals with a “wholistic” model which includes individual-centered activities. Some programs take day trips to places like Banff or Drumheller, or we celebrate together at one of URSA’s themed events!
Are staff schedules on a rotating basis?
Based off the needs of the program, staff can anticipate a standing schedule; working the same shifts each week. Although, staff are welcome to pick up additional shifts on an as-needed basis.
Do you have overnight and weekend pay differential?
Unfortunately, at URSA we do not.
How many staff are usually on shift?
For overnight shifts, most programs only require the support of one staff. During the daytime, there could be about one to six people working during a shift.
Do we offer professional development?
We have a lot of training opportunities and resources provided by URSA and partners of the organization that can help advance your career when you need it.
Interested in applying?
See the available opportunities on our career page, or apply here!
