Direct Support Professional

Hills-; Dubuque (IA); On-site; USD 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Hills & Dales in Dubuque, IA is seeking Direct Support Professionals to assist children and adults with intellectual and physical disabilities. DSPs provide personal care, skill development, and community engagement to help individuals live meaningful, dignified lives.

Responsibilities include assisting with bathing, mobility, documenting progress, coordinating with interdisciplinary teams, and supporting clients in daily activities and community outings.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated concern for others and alignment with the mission of Hills & Dales.
• Care, compassion, and thoughtful consideration of others’ wants and needs.
• Ability to assertively communicate and advocate for clients.
• Reliable attendance and punctuality.
• Ability to lift up to 35 lbs.
• Valid driver’s license and vehicle with insurance.

Responsibilities

• Provide personal care including bathing, toileting, and hygiene support.
• Support exercise and mobility activities.
• Document client progress toward personal goals accurately and timely.
• Communicate and coordinate with interdisciplinary teams to support clients effectively.
• Monitor health and wellness of clients.
• Accompany clients to outings, events, and community activities.

Skills

Care and compassion

Communication

Reliability

Advocacy

Lift 35 lbs

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Hills & Dales is a non-profit organization dedicated to building meaningful lives for individuals with disabilities. We are seeking passionate Direct Support Professionals to support children and adults with intellectual and physical disabilities, including those with complex medical and behavioral needs.

As a Direct Support Professional (DSP) at Hills & Dales, you will be a vital part of helping individuals live meaningful, dignified lives. Our DSPs provide personal assistance, skill development, and community engagement for children and adults with disabilities. The role is demanding yet rewarding, offering a unique opportunity to make a positive impact every day.

Work Schedule & Location Options

• Full-time positions available with a 3-day work week (12-13 hour shifts), averaging 203 days off per year.
• Typical schedules include 12 or 13 hours every Saturday plus two other weekdays (Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday), with shift start times between 5 AM and 9 AM.
• Work locations include community homes (3-5 individuals with disabilities, 2-3 co-workers), residential facilities (5-8 individuals, 5+ staff), or shared day program/community home settings.

Responsibilities

• Provide personal care including bathing, toileting, and hygiene support (lifting required with support of lifts).
• Support exercise and mobility activities.
• Document client progress toward personal goals accurately and timely.
• Communicate and coordinate with interdisciplinary teams to support clients effectively.
• Monitor health and wellness of clients.
• Accompany clients to outings, events, and community activities.
• Support development of work-related skills.
• Monitor environments for potential hazards and assist clients in safely navigating them.
• Assist clients in expressing emotions appropriately and support challenging behaviors when necessary.
• Follow detailed dietary instructions and support nutritional needs.

Requirements

• Demonstrated concern for others and alignment with the mission of Hills & Dales.
• Care, compassion, and thoughtful consideration of others’ wants and needs.
• Ability to assertively communicate and advocate for clients.
• Reliable attendance and punctuality.
• Ability to lift up to 35 lbs.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Valid driver’s license, reliable personal vehicle, and valid insurance.
• Successful completion of criminal background check, drug screen, and driving record check.

Why Join Us

This role offers a rewarding opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities. Our team is passionate, creative, and dedicated to fostering a supportive community environment. Pay is based on experience, education, and any previous loyalty to Hills & Dales.