Direct Support Professional - Day Program

New Horizons in Autism Inc; Freehold, Northern (NJ, KY); Hybrid; USD 25,000 - 28,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid Training

Paid Time Off (PTO)

Paid Sick Time

Holiday Pay

Employee Referral Bonus

Multiple Tuition Discount Programs

FREE RBT Certification Program

Opportunities for professional develop

Opportunities for advancement — welove

Medical Insurance

Vision Insurance

Flexible Spending Account (FSA)

401(k) with Employer Match

Additional voluntary insurance options

Job summary

New Horizons in Autism Inc is seeking Direct Support Professionals for our Day Program in Morganville, NJ. You will help adults with autism learn, grow, and participate in meaningful activities, providing direct care, supervision, and support to reach personal goals.

We offer comprehensive training, paid time off, benefits, and opportunities for advancement. The role is full-time, Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM, with a starting wage of $19 per hour and strong emphasis on teamwork and

Qualifications

• High School Diploma, GED, or higher degree; transcripts must be provided.
• Be at least 20 years of age.
• Have a valid New Jersey driver's license.
• Complete pre-employment screenings: Central Registry, CARI, DMV, drug screening, physical examination, PPD testing.
• Demonstrate ability to interact effectively with individuals with autism.
• Possess strong problem-solving skills and sound judgment.
• Communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Maintain a professional, respectful, and positive approach.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct care, support, and supervision to individuals with autism.
• Assist with personal care and daily living activities.
• Support medication management.
• Assist with behavior management and implement established strategies.
• Teach and reinforce life skills and independence.
• Provide structure, guidance, and encouragement throughout the day.
• Support participation in recreational, educational, vocational, and community activities.
• Provide transportation and assistance with community outings as needed.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation.
• Promote positive relationships and meaningful engagement.

Skills

Communication skills

Empathy

Reliability

Teamwork

Willingness to learn

Judgment and professionalism

Education

High School Diploma / GED

Job description

Direct Support Professional – Day Program

Make a Difference Every Day. Join the NHIA Team!

Do you enjoy helping others, building meaningful connections, and making a positive difference in people's lives?

If YES… we want YOU to join the NHIA team!

New Horizons in Autism is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing diverse opportunities that enhance the quality of life for adults with autism. Since 1980, NHIA has proudly served individuals and families throughout Bergen, Monmouth, and Ocean Counties.

We are seeking caring, compassionate, dedicated, and reliable individuals to join our team as Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) in our Day Program.

Day Program locations now hiring!

• Mahwah
• Freehold
• Toms River
• Whiting

About the Role

As a Direct Support Professional in our Day Program, you will play an important role in helping adults with autism learn, grow, build independence, and participate in meaningful activities and experiences.

This is a rewarding, hands‑on position where you will provide direct care, support, and supervision while helping the individuals we serve reach their personal goals and enjoy a meaningful day.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

Providing direct care, support, and supervision to individuals with autism

Assisting with personal care and daily living activities

Supporting medication management

Assisting with behavior management and implementing established support strategies

Teaching and reinforcing life skills and independence

Providing structure, guidance, and encouragement throughout the day

Supporting participation in recreational, educational, vocational, and community-based activities

Providing transportation and assistance with community outings, as needed

Maintaining accurate and timely documentation

Promoting positive relationships and meaningful engagement

Working collaboratively with fellow team members to provide the highest level of care and support

Every day is an opportunity to make a difference. Your compassion, patience, and dedication can help the individuals we serve develop new skills, build confidence, and experience greater independence.

Schedule

Full‑Time | Monday–Friday | 8:00 AM–4:00 PM

Enjoy a consistent weekday schedule while doing meaningful work that positively impacts the lives of others!

What We're Looking For

The individuals we serve rely on our team, and we're looking for people who are ready to make a difference.

We are seeking individuals who are:

Caring, compassionate, and patient

Dependable, responsible, and dedicated

Positive and enthusiastic

Willing to learn and grow professionally

Comfortable working in a hands‑on environment

Able to exercise sound judgment and tact

Able to communicate effectively with individuals with autism

Committed to providing respectful, person‑centered support

Able to work effectively as part of a professional team

Experience working with individuals with autism is a plus, but not required. NHIA provides extensive hands‑on training to help you develop the skills and confidence needed to succeed.

Flexible, in‑person interviews are available Monday through Friday at our administrative office in Morganville, NJ.

Extensive Hands‑On Training Provided

At NHIA, we invest in our employees from day one.

Our comprehensive Agency Training provides hands‑on instruction designed to prepare you to deliver exceptional care and support to the individuals we serve. You'll receive the training, guidance, and support you need to confidently begin your career with NHIA.

Qualifications

To be considered for this position, you must:

Have a High School Diploma, GED, or higher degree
Diploma or transcripts must be provided.

Be at least 20 years of age

Have a valid New Jersey driver's license

Successfully complete all required pre‑employment screenings, including:

Central Registry

CARI

DMV

Drug screening

Physical examination

PPD testing

Demonstrate the ability to interact appropriately and effectively with individuals with autism

Possess strong problem‑solving skills and sound judgment

Communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing

Maintain a professional, respectful, and positive approach

What We Offer Full‑Time Employees

Starting Pay: $19.00 per hour

When you join NHIA, you're joining a team that believes in supporting its employees and providing opportunities to grow.

Paid Training

Paid Time Off (PTO)

Paid Sick Time

Holiday Pay

Employee Referral Bonus

Multiple Tuition Discount Programs

FREE RBT Certification Program

Opportunities for professional development

Opportunities for advancement — we love to promote from within!

Additional Full‑Time Benefits

Medical Insurance

Vision Insurance

Flexible Spending Account (FSA)

401(k) with Employer Match

Additional voluntary insurance options through Allstate

Potential overtime opportunities (not guaranteed)

A Career With Purpose

Being a Direct Support Professional is more than a job — it's an opportunity to change lives!

You’ll help adults with autism build independence, develop valuable life skills, explore their communities, form meaningful connections, and achieve their personal goals.

Your work matters. Your support matters. And the difference you make matters.

As a nonprofit organization, NHIA may also qualify eligible employees for the Public Service Federal Student Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program, subject to applicable program requirements.

Ready to Make a Difference?

Join a team that is passionate about supporting, empowering, and advocating for individuals with autism.

Bring your compassion. Bring your energy. Bring your passion for helping others.

Join NHIA and make a difference every day!