Direct Support Professional

GOODWILL INDUSTRIES OF NORTHEAST IOWA, INC.; Waterloo (IA); On-site; USD 20,595 - 26,932; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Outstanding benefits

Flexible schedules

Opportunities for career growth

Job summary

GOODWILL INDUSTRIES OF NORTHEAST IOWA, INC. is seeking a Direct Support Professional in Waterloo, Iowa. This role involves helping individuals with disabilities achieve their personal and work goals while fostering independence. Candidates should have a high school diploma or GED and must possess a reliable transportation and valid driver's license. With a starting hourly wage of $14.95–$19.55, this position offers training opportunities and a supportive team environment that encourages personal growth.

Qualifications

• Experience is helpful, but not required—training will be provided.
• Willingness to earn CPR/First Aid and Medication Management certifications within 6 months.

Responsibilities

• Help participants set goals and make good choices.
• Create and lead activities based on each participant's strengths.
• Teach participants about community resources.
• Drive participants to appointments and activities.
• Build strong, respectful relationships through clear communication.
• Keep accurate records using computer systems.

Skills

Good speaking and writing skills

Ability to teach and support people with disabilities

Flexibility and patience

Basic computer skills

Positive attitude

Reliable transportation and driver's license

Education

High school diploma or GED (preferred)

Job description

Direct Support Professional

GOODWILL INDUSTRIES OF NORTHEAST IOWA, INC. Waterloo, Iowa, United States

About this position

Join us to make a real difference—if you care about others, we want you!

At Goodwill Industries of Northeast Iowa, Inc., we believe every person has value and ability. Every day, we work side by side with people to help them learn skills, build confidence, and live more independently. If you care about others, can adapt to change, and want to make a real difference, we’d love to meet you.

Position Title: Direct Support Professional
Reports To: Program Manager
Location: Waterloo
Type: Full-Time / Part-Time (as applicable)

Your Role in Our Mission

As a Direct Support Professional, you will help people reach their personal and work goals. You’ll support people with disabilities as they grow more independent, connect with their community, and work toward goals in their Individual Program Plan (IPP). This is more than a job—it’s a chance to encourage others, guide them, and walk with them as they discover what they can do and build a better future.

What You’ll Do

• Help participants set goals, make good choices, and follow through on tasks.
• Create and lead activities based on each person’s strengths, interests, and needs.
• Teach participants about community resources and help them speak up for themselves.
• Drive participants to appointments, activities, and events.
• Work with others to make sure participants get the support they need.
• Check progress and help participants keep growing and learning.
• Build strong, respectful relationships through clear and caring communication.
• Keep accurate records using computer systems.
• Help keep participants safe, including during emergencies, and report concerns properly.
• Work as a team with families, coworkers, and community partners in a kind and professional way.

What You Need

• High school diploma or GED (preferred).
• Experience is helpful, but not required—if you have a caring heart, we will train you while you get paid.
• Good speaking and writing skills.
• Ability to teach and support people with disabilities.
• Flexibility and patience in new or changing situations.
• Basic computer skills.
• A reliable cellphone.
• Respect for privacy and professionalism.
• A positive attitude that encourages others.
• Reliable transportation, valid driver’s license, and insurance (required).
• Willingness to earn CPR/First Aid and Medication Management certifications within 6 months.

Why You’ll Love Working Here

• Be part of a team that makes a real difference every day.
• Outstanding benefits and flexible schedules.
• Grow your skills in a supportive and friendly environment.
• Get paid while you learn and build a rewarding career.
• Help others gain independence, confidence, and success.

Ready to Make an Impact?

If you enjoy helping others and want a job that truly matters, apply today and be part of something bigger.

Salary Information

$14.95 - $19.55 Hourly Wage