Direct Support Professional

Melwood; Arlington (VA); On-site; USD 33,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

Melwood in Arlington, VA is seeking a Day Support Specialist to provide direct support and supervision to individuals with disabilities in a day program. You will implement life skills and vocational readiness activities, and facilitate community integration to promote independence.

The role requires a HS diploma or GED and at least 1 year of related experience. Strong MS Office skills, confidentiality, and teamwork are essential.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; vocational or technical training preferred.
• Minimum 1 year of experience working with individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities or in a related human services environment.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and data entry.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct support, supervision, and assistance to individuals with disabilities in a day support setting.
• Implement educational training, activities, and lessons focused on life skills, recreation, career exploration, and vocational preparedness.
• Attend and facilitate community integration activities.
• Collaborate with the Day Support Program team to cultivate community partnerships and develop meaningful community-based opportunities.
• Maintain compliance with county, state, and federal regulations governing human services providers, including participant supervision ratios, documentation, and safety standards.
• Promote a safe, ethical, inclusive, and professional environment for participants and staff.
• Assist with special projects, including documentation reviews and audits.
• Complete timely and accurate daily documentation, progress notes, and program records.
• Transport participants to and from community integration activities and program-related events as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

MS Office

Data entry

Interpersonal skills

Communication

Confidentiality

Time management

Education

HS diploma or GED

Vocational/technical training

Tools

Microsoft Excel

CRM systems

Job description

Position Summary

The Day Support Specialist provides direct support and supervision to individuals with disabilities, promoting independence, community engagement, life skills development, and vocational preparedness. This position facilitates educational and recreational activities while ensuring compliance with program standards, regulatory requirements, and organizational policies.

Essential Functions

• Provide direct support, supervision, and assistance to individuals with disabilities in a day support setting.
• Implement educational training, activities, and lessons that focus on life skills, recreation, career exploration, and vocational preparedness.
• Attend and facilitate community integration activities that promote learning, independence, and social engagement.
• Collaborate with the Day Support Program team to cultivate community partnerships and develop meaningful community-based opportunities.
• Maintain compliance with all county, state, and federal regulations governing human services providers, including participant supervision ratios, documentation requirements, and safety standards.
• Promote a safe, ethical, inclusive, and professional environment for participants and staff.
• Assist with special projects, including documentation reviews and audits.
• Complete timely and accurate daily documentation, progress notes, and program records.
• Transport participants to and from community integration activities and program-related events as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or GED required; Vocational or technical training in a related field preferred.
• Minimum of one (1) year of experience working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities or in a related human services environment.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Basic proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Outlook, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Ability to utilize department databases, web-based applications, and other technology systems.
• Strong interpersonal and customer service skills.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to handle confidential and sensitive information appropriately.
• Demonstrated ability to identify individual needs, resolve routine concerns, and escalation when appropriate.
• Ability to establish positive relationships with participants, families, community partners, and team members.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Problem Solving and Decision Making

• Most situations are resolved through established policies, procedures, and program guidelines.
• Exercises sound judgment in addressing participant needs and routine operational matters.
• Work is performed under general supervision, with outcomes reviewed by a supervisor or manager.
• Prioritizes and organizes assigned work independently while adhering to program requirements.

Working Relationships

• Interacts regularly with participants, families, community members, vendors, and internal staff.
• Exchanges routine and detailed information while maintaining professionalism and confidentiality.
• Collaborates with team members to support program goals and participant success.
• Assists in resolving routine concerns and contributes to a positive and productive work environment.

Additional Requirements

• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
• Ability to pass a DOT physical examination.
• Ability to safely transport program participants.
• Ability to successfully pass required background checks and screenings.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• None.

Schedule and Location

*Schedule: Monday - Friday 7:30am - 4:30pm 40hrs Per Week/$18.50 Per Hour*
*Location: Arlington, VA*

Equal Opportunity Employer

This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.

For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.