Direct Service Professional - 377515

Claratel Behavioral Health; Lithonia (GA); On-site; USD 17,456 - 24,862; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

20 days paid time off

Health, dental, vision benefits

Employer-funded retirement plan

Job summary

Claratel Behavioral Health is hiring a Direct Service Professional in Lithonia, Georgia. In this role, you will provide essential support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, helping them build life skills and achieve their personal goals.

The position offers both full-time and part-time options, with compensation at $15.36 per hour. Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED and a valid Georgia Driver’s License. Join a dynamic team dedicated to impactful community service.

Qualifications

• Valid Georgia Driver’s License with an acceptable Motor Vehicle Report (MVR).
• 6+ months of experience working with individuals who have intellectual or developmental disabilities.
• Familiarity with medication administration and behavioral support.

Responsibilities

• Provide support for daily living activities to individuals with disabilities.
• Foster independence through social skills and community involvement.
• Document progress and care plans accurately.

Skills

Strong communication skills

Ability to lift 50 lb. unassisted

Basic computer literacy

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

About Claratel Behavioral Health

Claratel Behavioral Health is an innovative, community-based behavioral health and developmental disabilities services organization offering a full range of mental health, developmental disabilities, and substance use disorder services to underserved individuals. As a public, not‑for‑profit organization, Claratel Behavioral Health operates in more than 20 locations in DeKalb County, Georgia, with a diverse workforce of more than 400 direct‑care and support staff. If you are passionate about driving change in behavioral health and developmental services and are eager to work in an environment that values innovation and inclusivity, Claratel Behavioral Health is the place for you. Here, your work is impactful, your growth is prioritized, and your well‑being is supported. Together, we can forge pathways to a healthier future for all.

About the Role

As a Direct Service Professional, you’ll provide support across home, work, and community settings, helping individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities build life skills, connect with others, and achieve their personal goals. Every day is an opportunity to make an impact.

Multiple Shifts Available

Full‑Time & Part‑Time Openings.

Job Responsibilities

With care and commitment, our Direct Service Professionals turn everyday moments into meaningful experiences for residents. Claratel Behavioral Health will provide you with the training and resources to succeed in this role.

• Empower daily living – Support with activities like cooking, cleaning, personal hygiene, health maintenance, and self‑administration of medication.
• Foster independence – Teach and encourage social skills, community involvement, and problem‑solving so individuals can thrive. Provide input and implement Individual Support Plans (ISP)/Behavior Support Plans (BSP) and strategies as instructed.
• Ensure safety and well‑being – Carefully follow care plans, medical instructions, and dietary needs. Report environmental risks or barriers and safeguard the individual and their possessions by following all policies and procedures.
• Be a mentor and role model – Demonstrate positive behaviors, coach individuals through challenges, and support them in building meaningful relationships.
• Prepare Documentation – Record progress, behavior support tracking, incident reports, and communication logs accurately and on time.
• Provide Transportation – Transport individuals safely to appointments, activities, and events that enrich their lives.
• Collaborate and grow – Work closely with teammates, supervisors, and families to ensure the best support, while continuing your own professional development.
• Innovate – Actively participate in the agency’s ongoing efforts to continually improve the quality of services provided and the effectiveness of the agency’s operations by sharing ideas and insights.

Residential Setting Responsibilities

For positions within residential homes, you’ll also:

• Assist with daily household routines (laundry, meal planning, grocery shopping, chores).
• Follow all medication administration procedures accurately (SSAM/Proxy Caregiver).
• Maintain clear communication logs during shift transitions.

Essential Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• Valid Georgia Driver’s License with an acceptable Motor Vehicle Report (MVR).
• Ability to lift 50 lb. unassisted and help individuals with mobility needs.
• Regular bending, squatting, standing, and moving throughout your shift.
• Strong communication skills, basic computer literacy, and the ability to manage conflict effectively.

Desired Qualifications

• 6+ months of experience working with individuals who have intellectual or developmental disabilities.
• Familiarity with medication administration, behavioral support, or person‑centered planning.

Compensation

• $15.36 per hour

Benefits

• A generous paid time off plan (earn 20 days your first year)
• 10 paid holidays
• We offer our eligible employees an array of benefits that support their physical, emotional, and financial wellbeing.
• Coverage options, provided through the state health and flexible benefit programs, include health, dental, vision, life, disability, and much more.
• We also offer a fully employer‑funded retirement plan and the option to make personal retirement contributions.
• Our benefits are designed to help provide peace of mind and financial security for you and your family, ensuring you can focus on making a difference in the lives of others.

Pre-employment drug screening and successful completion of a criminal history background check is required.

Claratel Behavioral Health participates in E‑Verify (Company ID: 226305)

Claratel Behavioral Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Candidates who may require an accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act or similar law to perform the essential functions of this job are encouraged to contact Human Resources at [e-mail].