Direct Support Professional

Aspire Living & Learning; United States; On-site; USD 25,000 - 26,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

403(b) Retirement Savings Plan

Paid Sick Time

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Professional Development Reimbursement

Meaningful Work & Flexible Scheduling

Job summary

Aspire Living & Learning is seeking a Per Diem Direct Support Professional (DSP) to assist individuals with developmental disabilities in Sterling, Holden, and Princeton. This role includes daily living support, transportation assistance, and activity facilitation—per diem shifts based on program needs.

The ideal candidate has experience with disabilities, strong communication skills, and a compassionate approach.

Qualifications

• Experience working with individuals with disabilities in a professional setting.
• Basic computer skills; Therap experience is a plus.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Empathy, enthusiasm, and a dedication to helping others.
• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Some locations may require a valid US driver’s license and auto insurance, with at least 3 years of driving experience; reliable transportation may be required.

Responsibilities

• Assist individuals with daily activities, including household chores and meal preparation.
• Support recreational, learning, and physical fitness activities.
• Represent the needs and interests of individuals and contribute to program planning.
• Provide transportation to community activities when needed; mileage reimbursement may apply.

Skills

Experience with disabilities

Verbal & written communication

Empathy & compassion

Basic computer skills

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Therap

Job description

At Aspire Living & Learning, we don't just talk about making an impact, we live it. For more than 40 years, we've supported neurodiverse children and adults across New England and Maryland as they discover their passions, unlock their potential, and live more independently in their communities. Our person-centered services evolve with people's needs, from education and behavioral health to residential and community-based supports. We empower people to live lives shaped by their own interests, choices, and strengths. Join our collaborative, mission-driven team and bring your skills to work that makes a real difference every day.

Aspire Living & Learning is currently seeking a Per Diem Direct Support Professional (DSP) to provide direct support to individuals with developmental disabilities. The DSP will provide support with daily activities, including household chores, meal preparation, recreational activities, learning activities, and physical fitness activities. The DSP will represent the needs, wants, and interest of individuals served or supported by the program, and provide input on program planning and implementation for individuals. As part of your role, you may assist individuals with transportation to community activities, helping them build valuable life skills. Depending on program needs, transportation may involve the use of a company vehicle or, when necessary, a personal vehicle—with mileage reimbursement provided as applicable.

Schedule: Per Diem, dependent on program needs. Minimum of 2 shifts per month

Location: Sterling, Holden, and Princeton

Qualifications

• Prior experience working with individuals with disabilities in a professional setting strongly preferred.
• Basic computer skills, experience using Therap a plus!
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Empathy, enthusiasm, and a passion and dedication for helping others.
• High School Diploma or GED required.
• In some locations, a valid US driver’s license and auto insurance may be required, with at least 3 years of driving experience. Access to reliable transportation is required, and some positions may require the use of a personal vehicle to transport supported individuals, depending on program needs.

Employees at Aspire enjoy working with a collaborative and dedicated team that values a culture of belonging and care. We take pride in offering a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees, including:

• 403(b) Retirement Savings Plan – Save for your future through Aspire's voluntary 403(b) retirement plan.
• Paid Sick Time – Earn paid sick leave in accordance with applicable state and federal laws.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – Access confidential support and resources for personal, family, financial, and work-life needs.
• Professional Development Reimbursment– Take advantage of training and learning opportunities to build your skills and support career growth.
• Meaningful Work & Flexible Scheduling – Enjoy the flexibility of a per diem schedule while making a positive impact in the lives of the individuals and communities we serve.

Pay: $18.50-$19.00/hr based on education and experience

Aspire Living & Learning believes it must play an active role in creating a community of employees that is diverse, inclusive and equitable. Our work benefits greatly from the contributions of people of color, people from working class backgrounds, women, LGBTQ people, and individuals with disabilities. Hence, we strongly encourage applications from people with these identities or who are members of other marginalized communities.