Companion

Kindly Direct Care; West Wildwood (NJ); On-site; USD 21,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Kindly is seeking compassionate Direct Support Professionals to provide one-on-one support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in their homes and communities. DSPs help develop life skills, build independence, and follow individualized plans while serving as mentors and advocates in a respectful, person-centered approach.

This entry-level role offers training, supportive leadership, and opportunities for growth within a mission-driven team.

Qualifications

• Must have high school diploma or GED
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation
• Pass background checks and screenings
• Commitment to training and certification requirements
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Compassionate, patient, and dependable
• Ability to work independently and exercise good judgment

Responsibilities

• Provide one-on-one support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in their homes and communities
• Help individuals develop life skills, participate in meaningful activities, build relationships, and achieve goals identified in their support plans
• Assist with daily living tasks, transportation, budgeting, and health support
• Document progress and maintain compliant records in electronic systems
• Collaborate with supervisors, families, and care teams to ensure quality care

Skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Reliability

Independent work

Education

High School Diploma or GED

CPR/First Aid Certification

Job description

About Kindly

At Kindly, we believe every individual deserves the opportunity to live a meaningful, independent, and fulfilling life.

We provide personalized support services to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Our mission is to help individuals build independence, strengthen community connections, achieve personal goals, and live life on their own terms.

We are seeking compassionate, dependable, and motivated Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to join our growing team.

Whether you are an experienced caregiver or someone looking to begin a rewarding career helping others, we provide the training, support, and guidance needed to succeed.

Position Summary

A Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides one-on-one support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in their homes and communities.

DSPs play a vital role in helping individuals develop life skills, participate in meaningful activities, build relationships, increase independence, and achieve goals identified in their support plans.

This is far more than a caregiving role. DSPs serve as mentors, coaches, advocates, and trusted supports who help individuals live fuller, more connected lives.

Key Responsibilities

Community Integration & Independence

• Support individuals in participating in community activities, recreation, volunteer opportunities, and social events
• Assist individuals in developing friendships and building natural supports
• Encourage independence and self-advocacy
• Help individuals pursue personal interests, hobbies, employment, educational, and life goals
• Support participation in religious, cultural, and community activities when desired by the individual

Daily Living Skills

• Assist with meal preparation and healthy living habits
• Support household organization and cleanliness
• Assist with budgeting, shopping, and money management as appropriate
• Teach and reinforce skills that promote independence
• Provide transportation to approved activities and appointments when required

Personal Care & Health Support

• Assist with personal care tasks when authorized and needed
• Observe and report changes in health, behavior, or wellbeing
• Follow all individualized support plans and safety protocols
• Administer or assist with medications when appropriately trained and authorized
• Maintain a safe and supportive environment

Documentation & Compliance

• Complete accurate and timely service documentation
• Document progress toward individual goalsUtilize electronic systems for scheduling, documentation, and communication
• Comply with all agency policies, HIPAA requirements, and state regulations
• Attend required trainings and maintain certifications

Team Collaboration

• Communicate effectively with supervisors, families, and care team members
• Participate in meetings and ongoing training opportunities
• Demonstrate professionalism and reliability in all interactions
• Represent Kindly with compassion, respect, and integrity

Qualifications

Required

• High School Diploma or GED
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation
• Ability to pass all required background checks and screenings
• Ability to complete required training and certification requirements
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Compassionate, patient, and dependable
• Ability to work independently and exercise sound judgment

Preferred

• Experience supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities
• Experience in healthcare, caregiving, education, behavioral health, or human services
• CPR, First Aid, or Medication Administration certifications
• Bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply

Physical Requirements

• Ability to travel throughout assigned service areas
• Ability to lift, transfer, or assist individuals when required by the support plan
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, reach, and perform physical activities associated with community-based support services
• Ability to respond appropriately in emergency situations

What Makes Kindly Different?

At Kindly, we recognize that exceptional care starts with exceptional caregivers.

Our DSPs receive ongoing support, accessible leadership, quality training, and opportunities for professional growth. We strive to create an environment where employees feel valued, respected, and empowered to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the individuals they serve.

When you join Kindly, you become part of a team that believes support should be personal, compassionate, and centered on helping people thrive.

Join Our Team

If you are passionate about helping others, enjoy building meaningful relationships, and want a career where your work truly matters, we would love to hear from you.

Apply today and help us build independence, create opportunity, and empower individuals to thrive.