Predictors of Job Satisfaction of Frontline Staff Working in Supported Accommodation Services for People With Intellectual Disabilities

BACKGROUND: There are high rates of staff turnover in Australian disability services. Increasing job satisfaction could reduce staff turnover. This study examined predictors of job satisfaction of frontline staff working in supported accommodation services. METHOD: An exploratory factor analysis was conducted on the measure of job satisfaction to determine the dependent variables. Multilevel modelling was used to examine predictors of job satisfaction. RESULTS: Three dimensions of job satisfaction were identified: Work Conditions, Tasks and Development, and Management. Role clarity, role conflict and collaboration within the organisation predicted all three dimensions. Staff having longer experience in the service predicted Work Conditions, while staff working more hours or being a frontline supervisor predicted satisfaction with Management. Staff working in services where the people supported had higher levels of engagement was associated with Tasks and Development. CONCLUSIONS: Increasing role clarity and collaboration within the organisation, and reducing role conflict, could improve job satisfaction.