Direct Support Professional

Stars Inc; Pikeville (TN); On-site; USD 16,000 - 22,000; Full time

Job summary

STARS, Inc. in Pikeville, Tennessee seeks compassionate Supportive Living Companions to help individuals with intellectual disabilities live fulfilling lives at home and in the community.

You will provide daily living support, accompany clients to appointments, and maintain confidentiality as part of a dedicated team. Flexibility for evenings and weekends is required; training in First Aid/CPR is provided, and a background/drug check is required.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Previous experience with individuals with intellectual disabilities preferred.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to build rapport with individuals and families.
• Compassionate, patient, and empathetic demeanor with a desire to support individuals with intellectual disabilities.
• Ability to work independently and in a team with flexibility and problem-solving in a dynamic environment.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation required.
• Ability to pass a background check and drug screening as per state regulations.

Responsibilities

• Assist individuals with daily living activities and household tasks.
• Develop supportive relationships to foster trust and safety.
• Accompany to appointments, activities, and community outings with safety in mind.
• Provide emotional support, active listening, and empathy.
• Implement person-centered plans and individualized support strategies.
• Document daily activities and progress while maintaining confidentiality.
• Collaborate with case managers, healthcare professionals, and families.
• Engage in ongoing training to enhance skills in supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities.

Skills

Interpersonal communication

Compassionate & empathetic

Independent worker

Team collaboration

Valid driver’s license

Background check clear

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

We are seeking compassionate and dedicated individuals to join our team as Supportive Living Companions for individuals with intellectual disabilities in Pikeville, Tennessee. As a Supportive Living Companion, you will provide essential support and companionship to individuals with intellectual disabilities, helping them lead fulfilling and independent lives within their home and community.

Responsibilities

• Assist individuals with daily living activities, including personal hygiene, meal preparation, medication management, and household chores.
• Develop positive and supportive relationships with individuals with intellectual disabilities, fostering a sense of trust, safety, and belonging.
• Accompany individuals to appointments, recreational activities, and community outings, ensuring their safety and well being at all times.
• Provide emotional support, active listening, and empathy to individuals during times of distress or uncertainty.
• Implement person‑centered plans and individualized support strategies, respecting each individual's preferences, strengths, and goals.
• Document daily activities, observations, and progress notes accurately and in a timely manner, maintaining confidentiality and adhering to HIPPA regulations.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary team members, including case managers, healthcare professionals, and family members, to ensure coordinated care.
• Participate in ongoing training and professional development opportunities to enhance knowledge and skills in supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Previous experience working with individuals with intellectual disabilities or in a similar caregiving role preferred.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build rapport and establish trusting relationships with individuals and their families.
• Compassionate, patient, and empathetic demeanor, with a genuine desire to support and empower individuals with intellectual disabilities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, demonstrating flexibility, adaptability, and problem‑solving skills in a dynamic environment.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation required.
• Ability to pass a background check and drug screening in accordance with state regulations.

Working Conditions

This position requires flexible scheduling, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, to accommodate the needs of individuals and their families.

Work environment includes group residence, and community settings.

Physical requirements may include lifting, bending, stooping, and assisting individuals with mobility limitations as needed.

First Aid and CPR Training will be provided, Medication Administration Training will be provided prior to administering any medications. An F-endorsement on your driver's license will be required at a later date. This enables you to drive the handicap van and transport individuals to appointments, on community outings, etc.

Join our team and make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities in Pikeville, Tennessee.

STARS, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Location

Pikeville, TN

Department

Direct Support Professional

Employment Type

Full-Time

Minimum Experience

Entry-level

Compensation

$13.75 + Dependent on Experience

Internal Job Code

DSPGR001