Direct Support Professional

Dungarvin; Grand Rapids (MN); On-site; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Training provided

Job summary

Dungarvin is seeking staff for Acute Behavioral Services group homes to support individuals with complex behavioral and mental-health needs. You will provide direct support, follow safety-focused plans, and document observations using electronic systems.

The role emphasizes teamwork, crisis management, and training opportunities within a structured, safety-first environment. A high school diploma or equivalent and a valid driver’s license are required.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED is required.
• 3 years minimum experience with chronic/severe mental illness OR a degree in a mental-health field.
• Must be at least 18; some programs require 21+.
• Valid driver’s license and auto insurance.
• Basic computer skills and ability to use electronic documentation systems.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct support to individuals with intensive behavioral/mental-health needs, focusing on safety and engagement.
• Follow behavior support and treatment plans, crisis prevention, de-escalation, and restraints as trained.
• Maintain a clean, safe living environment and assist with daily living tasks and community activities.
• Document services, observations, health concerns, and activities using electronic systems.
• Monitor behavioral changes and communicate with supervisors during crises.
• Assist with appointments, medication administration tasks, and follow medical/nutrition plans.
• Participate in team meetings and train new staff.

Skills

Crisis de-escalation

Documentation

Team collaboration

Problem solving

Time management

Independent prioritization

Education

High school diploma or GED

Degree in mental-health field

Tools

Therap

T-logs

Job description

About the Program

Our Acute Behavioral Services (ABS) group homes support individuals with complex mental health and behavioral needs. Many of the people we serve have experienced frequent crises, hospital stays, or legal involvement. They may have a history of failed placements and need a highly structured environment to succeed.

Our homes are specially designed for safety, and our approach is consistent, person-centered, and focused on helping individuals reach their goals while maintaining safety for everyone. Due to the challenging nature of this work, staff receive training in behavioral support and crisis response, including the use of manual restraints when necessary.

What You'll Do

• Provide direct support to individuals with intensive behavioral and mental‑health needs, using person‑centered approaches focused on safety, skill‑building, and positive engagement.
• Support individuals in accordance with behavior support plans, treatment plans, crisis‑prevention strategies, de‑escalation techniques, and manual restraint procedures as trained.
• Maintain a clean, safe, structured living environment; assist with daily living skills, household tasks, activities, transportation, and community engagement.
• Accurately document services, behavioral observations, health concerns, and program activities using electronic systems (T‑logs, Therap, health tracking).
• Monitor behavioral changes, identify escalation indicators, and communicate proactively with supervisors and team members during crisis or safety situations.
• Support family and personal contacts, assist with appointments, medication administration tasks (as allowed), and follow all medical and nutrition plans.
• Participate in team meetings, provide feedback on individuals' needs, and assist in training new staff while modeling positive, professional behavior.
• Maintain home safety, follow emergency procedures, and ensure compliance with protocols and individual support plans.

Required (Must-Have)

• High school diploma or GED
• 3 years minimum of experience working with individuals with chronic and severe mental illness OR a degree in a mental‑health‑related field
• Must be at least 18 years of age; some programs require employees to be 21 years of age or older
• Valid driver's license and proof of auto insurance
• Basic computer skills and ability to use electronic documentation systems

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods
• Ability to safely manage physically demanding situations

Skills & Abilities

• Follow behavior support plans, treatment plans, functional assessments, and person‑centered plans
• Use crisis prevention, de‑escalation, redirection, and manual restraints as trained
• Communicate clearly and professionally in writing and verbally, including documentation
• Work effectively in crisis situations and exercise sound judgment
• Collaborate with team members and external partners (case managers, law enforcement, mental health professionals)
• Demonstrate strong problem‑solving, consistency, time‑management, and independent prioritization skills

If you're passionate about making a difference, we want to hear from you! At Dungarvin, we support one another and provide the training and tools you need to succeed. Join our team and help us empower individuals to lead their best lives.

We believe in supporting not only those we serve but also each other, ensuring a collaborative and supportive work environment for all. Dungarvin is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, protected veteran status, disability, genetic information, national origin, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any legally protected status per federal and/or state law.

Retention Bonus: The retention bonus is not applicable for current Dungarvin employees.

9/17

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