Community Support Specialist

Catholic Charities; Gaithersburg (MD); Hybrid; USD 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Community Support Specialist to assist adults with developmental disabilities in achieving their personal goals. This direct-care role emphasizes respect for individual rights and choices while providing essential support in a stimulating environment. The position offers a chance to make a significant impact through various community activities and personal assistance, fostering health, wellness, and engagement. With a commitment to professional growth and a comprehensive benefits package, this role is perfect for those passionate about making a difference.

Benefits

Medical, prescriptions, dental, and vision insurance

Retirement savings plan with company match

Company-paid and supplemental life insurance

Flexible spending accounts

Paid vacation, sick, and personal leave

11 paid holidays

Professional development and training

Tuition reimbursement

Employee referral bonus program

Flexible work arrangements

Qualifications

• Experience working with individuals with severe and multiple disabilities preferred.
• High school diploma or equivalent required.

Responsibilities

• Assist adults with developmental disabilities in achieving personal goals.
• Document participant activities, behaviors, and progress in detail.
• Transport participants safely to community outings.

Skills

Problem-solving skills

Ability to work with diverse populations

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Certified Nursing Assistant certification

Job description

ORGANIZATION OVERVIEW: At Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Washington, your expertise and service in areas such as immigration and refugee support, mental health, social work, employment and adult education, legal and financial services, healthcare, food assistance, shelter and housing, developmental disabilities, and prison outreach can significantly impact lives. With over 50 programs across the district and five surrounding counties, Catholic Charities offers hope and assistance. We foster an inclusive culture that celebrates diversity and provide opportunities for professional growth, a comprehensive benefits package, a hybrid work model, and a commitment to building high-performing teams. Join us to inspire hope and build futures.

Compensation Package:

• Medical, prescriptions, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement savings plan with company match
• Company-paid and supplemental life insurance
• Flexible spending accounts
• Paid vacation, sick, and personal leave
• 11 paid holidays
• Professional development and training
• Tuition reimbursement
• Employee referral bonus program
• Flexible work arrangements
• Clinical supervision for licensed social workers and counselors

JOB SUMMARY: The Community Support Specialist is a direct-care role dedicated to assisting adults with developmental disabilities in achieving their personal goals while respecting their rights and choices.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES and RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Participate in PCP meetings, plan and implement goals as agreed upon in team meetings.
• Document participant activities, behaviors, and progress in detail.
• Create a stimulating environment with sensory, physical, and community activities daily.
• Communicate effectively with participants, families, and team members.
• Provide personal assistance to individuals with disabilities.
• Promote communication using various methods.
• Encourage health, wellness, and community engagement.
• Maintain program site and vehicle cleanliness and safety.
• Transport participants safely to community outings.
• Administer and record medication as required.
• Pass the MTTP tests and recertify as a Certified Medication Technician (CMT) with MBON as needed.
• Follow directions from the delegating RN.

EDUCATION and EXPERIENCE:

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Experience working with individuals with severe and multiple disabilities preferred.
• Certified Nursing Assistant certification is a plus.

SKILLS and COMPETENCIES:

• Problem-solving skills and ability to work with diverse populations.
• Valid driver's license and good driving record.