Direct Support Professional

The Arc of Opportunity in North Central Massachusetts; Fitchburg (MA); On-site; USD 28,103 - 29,508; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

401(k) Retirement Plan

Paid Vacation Time

Paid Sick Time

Job summary

The Arc of Opportunity in North Central Massachusetts is seeking a Direct Support Professional (DSP) to provide compassionate support for individuals with intellectual disabilities in a residential setting. This role involves implementing support plans, assisting with daily living activities, and advocating for individual dignity and independence.

Candidates should have a High School Diploma or GED, a valid driver's license, and strong communication skills. The position offers a generous hiring bonus of $3,500 and a competitive pay rate of $20.40/hour to $21.42/hour based on qualifications.

Qualifications

• Valid driver's license.
• Acceptable CORI/Fingerprint background check.
• Ability to meet all physical requirements of the position.

Responsibilities

• Implement Individual Support Plans (ISPs) based on assessments.
• Assist individuals with activities of daily living.
• Advocate for individuals served and promote dignity.

Skills

Strong verbal and written communication skills in English

Basic computer literacy skills

Ability to prioritize multiple responsibilities

Experience in human services or related fields

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

Job Title: Direct Support Professional (DSP)
Company: The Arc of Opportunity
Schedule: Sunday-3:00PM-11:00PM, Thursday 3:00 PM -11:00 PM, Friday 3:00 PM- 11:00PM & Saturday -3:00pm-11:00pm (32 Hours)
Pay Rate: $20.40/hour (without MAP Certification) | $21.42/hour (with MAP Certification)
Hiring Bonus: $3,500 ($1,750 paid at 3 months and $1,750 paid at 6 months upon successful completion of orientation and employment requirements)

Position Summary

Looking for a career with heart, purpose, and impact? The Arc of Opportunity is seeking compassionate and dedicated Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in a residential setting.

As a DSP, you will help individuals achieve their personal goals, increase independence, and enhance their quality of life while providing direct care and support in accordance with agency, state, and federal regulations.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• Implement Individual Support Plans (ISPs) based on assessments, objectives, and goals.
• Assist individuals with activities of daily living and personal care needs, including:
  • Transfers
  • Toileting
  • Showering and hygiene assistance
  • Dressing and grooming
  • Other personal care supports as needed
• Advocate for individuals served and promote dignity, independence, and community inclusion.
• Assist individuals in accessing community resources and opportunities that support personal growth and goal achievement.
• Perform household and maintenance duties associated with residential programs, including:
  • Cleaning
  • Laundry
  • Meal preparation and cooking
  • Grocery shopping
  • Snow shoveling
  • Groundskeeping and related tasks
• Work closely with Residential Managers and Assistant Residential Managers to ensure quality service delivery and regulatory compliance.
• Maintain professional conduct while adhering to agency policies, confidentiality requirements, and ethical standards.
• Attend and successfully complete all required trainings, meetings, and certification requirements.
• Communicate effectively and professionally with individuals served, family members, guardians, coworkers, community partners, and regulatory agencies.
• Safely transport individuals using agency vehicles and vans as required.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Physical Requirements

• Frequent standing, walking, pushing, pulling, bending, stooping, lifting, and twisting.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to kneel, bend, carry items, and sustain periods of walking, standing, and sitting.
• Ability to physically assist individuals according to their needs.
• Ability to perform approved physical restraints when necessary and in accordance with training and agency policy.

Qualifications

Required

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Valid driver's license.
• Acceptable CORI/Fingerprint background check and driving record throughout employment.
• Personal vehicle available for work-related responsibilities when required, including valid registration, insurance, and compliance with state safety requirements.
• Ability to meet all physical requirements of the position.
• Basic computer literacy skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills in English.

Preferred

• Experience working in human services, developmental disabilities, substance abuse, mental health, or related fields.

Mental and Professional Requirements

• Demonstrated ability to exercise sound judgment and professional decision-making.
• Ability to prioritize multiple responsibilities and manage crisis situations effectively.
• Functional reasoning and problem-solving skills.
• Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and professionalism.
• Knowledge of and commitment to The Arc of Opportunity's mission and values.

Benefits

• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Disability Insurance
• Paid Vacation Time
• Paid Sick Time
• Paid Holidays
• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Career Growth and Advancement Opportunities

Why Join The Arc of Opportunity

• Competitive pay rates.
• Generous hiring bonus.
• Meaningful work that positively impacts the lives of others.
• Supportive team environment.
• Opportunities for professional development and advancement.
• Join an organization that has been serving individuals with disabilities for more than 60 years.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The Arc of Opportunity is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, age, or any other legally protected characteristic.

Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation to apply for or participate in the interview process may request assistance, orally or in writing, through the Vice President of Human Resources.