Direct Support Professional - Awakenings

The Arc of Washington County - MD; Hagerstown (MD); On-site; USD 40,000 - 41,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

$19.00 per hour, plus a $0.50/hour for

Full-time, hourly (non-exempt)

Monday–Friday daytime schedule

Health, Dental & Supplemental...

Company-paid Life Insurance & Short-…

403(b) Retirement Plan with Company…

14 Days of Paid Time Off in Year 1 + 7

Casual dress code, employee...

Growth opportunities and ongoing…

Job summary

The Arc of Washington County - MD in Hagerstown, MD is seeking a Direct Support Professional (DSP) for the Awakenings Program. This full-time, on-site role supports adults with IDD through daily living activities, safety, and engaging programming.

You will participate in paid new hire training, maintain a 8:00 AM–3:00 PM schedule, and help with personal care, community outings, and behavioral support under supervision.

Qualifications

• Must be 18 years of age or older
• High school diploma or GED required
• Valid U.S. driver’s license with at least 2 years of driving experience and a clean driving record
• Minimum of 2 years of direct experience supporting individuals with IDD who exhibit behavioral challenges, including aggression and self-injurious behaviors
• Experience within a day program setting strongly preferred
• Must attend paid new hire training (Mon–Fri, 8:30 AM–5:00 PM for the first 3 weeks and 2 days)
• Must pass pre-employment requirements including a reading/math assessment, background check, drug screen, and physical/ergonomic screening

Responsibilities

• Support individuals with daily personal hygiene needs
• Administer medications as prescribed
• Facilitate community outings and activities to promote inclusion
• Create a safe, structured, and encouraging environment
• Provide ongoing support with compassion, patience, and understanding

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Now Hiring: Direct Support Professional (DSP) – Awakenings Program

Location: Hagerstown, MD (Main Campus)

Schedule: Full-Time | Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Remote Status: On-site (Hagerstown, MD), hands-on support role

Make an Impact. Build a Career You’re Proud Of.

Since 1952, The Arc of Washington County has been a trusted support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). From community living to specialized programs, our team is driven by compassion, inclusion, and person-centered care. Join us and play a key role in building a more inclusive, empowered future—right here in Washington County.

About the Awakenings Program:

Awakenings is a unique day program supporting adults with IDD who may experience behavioral challenges such as verbal or physical aggression, self-injurious behaviors, or seeking attention in nontraditional ways. We provide structure, safety, and meaningful engagement to help each individual thrive.

This full-time weekday schedule is ideal for caregivers who value consistency, teamwork, and an environment where every day brings meaningful work.

What You’ll Do:

• Support individuals with daily personal hygiene needs
• Administer medications as prescribed
• Facilitate community outings and activities to promote inclusion
• Create a safe, structured, and encouraging environment
• Provide ongoing support with compassion, patience, and understanding

What You Need:

• Must be 18 years of age or older
• High school diploma or GED required
• Valid U.S. driver’s license with at least 2 years of driving experience and a clean driving record
• Minimum of 2 years of direct experience supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) who exhibit behavioral challenges, including aggression and self-injurious behaviors
• Experience within a day program setting strongly preferred
• Must attend paid new hire training (Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM for the first 3 weeks and 2 days)
• Must pass pre-employment requirements including a reading/math assessment, background check, drug screen, and physical/ergonomic screening

Pay, Benefits & Perks:

• $19.00 per hour, plus a $0.50/hour differential for working within the Awakenings program
• Full-time, hourly (non-exempt) position
• Monday–Friday daytime schedule — no evenings, weekends, or overnights
• Health, Dental & Supplemental Insurance (shared cost)
• Company-paid Life Insurance & Short-Term Disability
• 403(b) Retirement Plan with Company Match
• 14 Days of Paid Time Off in Year 1 + 7 Paid Holidays
• Casual dress code, employee appreciation events, and supportive team culture
• Growth opportunities and ongoing professional development

DSP Certification Bonus Program – Earn More While You Grow!

We don’t just value your work — we reward it.

Earn $1,500 to $2,000 per certification level within your first year. Since multiple levels are achievable in Year 1, you could unlock up to $5,250 in extra income — plus annual bonuses for staying certified.

Ready to make a difference — and get rewarded for your dedication?

#ID