Direct Support Professional (Caregiver)

Firefly Supported Living & Employment Services

Joplin (MO)

On-site

USD 26,000 - 36,000

Full time

14 days+

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Benefits offered by this job

Holiday Pay

PTO accrues and can be used

Health insurance

Employee discounts

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Mileage reimbursement

Comprehensive training

Career growth opportunities

Supportive work culture

Job summary

Firefly is seeking a Direct Support Professional (Caregiver) to help adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities live more independently in their homes and communities. You will provide daily support, teach life skills, and support goals set in Individual Support Plans.

This role emphasizes presence, patience, and connection, with a focus on meaningful daily impact. No experience is required as paid training is provided.

Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent is required.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Basic computer skills are required.
Reliable transportation and valid driver's license (if applicable).
Ability to pass a background check.

Responsibilities

Support adults with developmental disabilities in homes and communities.
Help individuals access community resources and participate in social activities.
Provide transportation for appointments, shopping, and outings.
Teach independent living skills such as cooking, cleaning, and money management.
Assist with daily living needs, including personal care and hygiene.
Document client progress and communicate with families and team members.
Follow each individual's ISP and participate in team meetings and trainings.
Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Communication skills

Teamwork

Independence

Basic computer skills

Driver's license (if applicable)

Background check clearance

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Job Title

Direct Support Professional (Caregiver)

Company

Firefly (Supportive Living & Employment Services)

Location

Joplin, Missouri

Employment Type

Full‑Time or Part‑Time

No experience necessary — we provide paid training. All we need is your compassionate, caring heart.

Job Summary

Are you passionate about helping others live fuller, more independent lives? Join Firefly as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) / Caregiver and make a meaningful difference every day. At Firefly, being a DSP isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence, patience, and connection. In this role, you’ll support adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities as they build independence, confidence, and meaningful lives within their communities.

“The best day isn’t about perfection but calm mornings, small wins, and real connection. Ending the day tired but fulfilled by knowing someone felt heard, seen, and supported because you showed up.” — Katelyn Collins, Direct Support Professional

“My best day as a DSP would be knowing that I changed just one person’s life—helping individuals overcome obstacles, learn new skills, and build relationships. Being a DSP is not easy, but it is meaningful and rewarding.” — Amber Dill, Direct Support Professional

As a DSP, you’ll provide daily support that helps individuals achieve personal goals, develop life skills, and participate fully in everyday life. You’ll be part of a team that values dignity, growth, and human connection. While the work can be challenging at times, it is deeply impactful and offers a strong sense of purpose—both for you and the individuals you support.

What You’ll Enjoy

Holiday Pay
PTO that accrues and can be used immediately
Free Health Insurance Plan available
Employee Discounts (Verizon, AT&T, and more)
Employee Assistance Program (free counseling, legal aid, and financial guidance)
Mileage reimbursement for work‑related travel
Comprehensive, supportive training (no experience required)
Opportunities for career growth and advancement
A welcoming, supportive work culture that values your wellbeing

What You’ll Do in This Position

Support adults with developmental disabilities in their homes and communities
Help individuals access community resources and participate in social activities
Provide transportation for appointments, shopping, and community outings
Teach independent living skills such as cooking, cleaning, and money management
Assist with daily living needs, including personal care and hygiene
Document client progress, achievements, and milestones
Communicate effectively with clients, families, and team members
Follow each individual’s Individual Support Plan (ISP)
Participate in team meetings and training sessions
Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent
Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Basic computer skills
Reliable transportation and valid driver’s license (if applicable)
Ability to pass a background check

Work Environment

Work primarily in clients’ homes and community settings
Some travel required
May involve lifting or moving up to 50 pounds
Work in a variety of environments, including homes, public spaces, and outdoors
Must be able to work varying shifts, including weekends

Position Perks & Benefits

Paid time off: full-time employees receive an attractive time off package to balance your work and personal life
Employee benefits package: full-time employees receive health, dental, vision, retirement, life, & more
Top‑notch training: initial, ongoing, comprehensive, and supportive
Career mobility: advancement opportunities/promoting from within
Welcoming, warm, supportive: a work culture & environment that promotes your well‑being, values you as human being, and encourages your health and happiness

Brightli Mission

A mission to improve client care, reduce the financial burden of community mental health centers by sharing resources, a mission to have a larger voice in advocacy to increase access to mental health and substance use care in our communities, and a mission to evolve the behavioral health industry to better meet the needs of our clients.

About Brightli

Brightli is on a mission: A mission to improve client care, reduce the financial burden of community mental health centers by sharing resources, a mission to have a larger voice in advocacy to increase access to mental health and substance use care in our communities, and a mission to evolve the behavioral health industry to better meet the needs of our clients. We are doing this by forming a new behavioral health organization under new model. Under one parent company, multiple organizations are able to collaborate, share resources and system supports, increase recruiting and retention efforts, increase access to specialized care, and meet the growing demand for behavioral and addiction recovery care. Brightli’s top‑line subsidiaries include Burrell Behavioral Health (Burrell), Preferred Family Healthcare (PFH), Southeast Missouri Behavioral Health (SEMO), Firefly, Adult and Child Health, and Places for People. While these organizations operate independently and are governed by separate board of directors, their operations and services benefit from this model. Alone, organizations may be able to navigate the current tumultuous healthcare environment, but we believe that together we can do so much more than survive. Our communities need us now more than ever, and by working together we are ready to answer their call for years to come.

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