Direct Support Professional - Day Services

The Arc Western Montana; Missoula (MT); On-site; USD 23,000 - 26,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

PTO up to 3 weeks

Medical & dental insurance

Vision & life insurance

403(b) with company match

PSLF eligibility

Job summary

The Center is seeking a Day Services Direct Support Professional to lead and support activities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in a structured day program. You will help participants engage in creative programming, community outings, and skill-building while promoting independence.

Starting pay is $17.50 per hour, rising to $18.00 after a paid meds test. Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM, with paid training and internal growth opportunities within the organization.

Qualifications

• Must be enthusiastic and creative in daily activities.
• Reliable with consistent attendance and punctuality.
• Applicant must be at least 17 years old.
• Background check and drug screening required by Montana law.
• Comfortable using basic English and electronic communication tools.
• Clear driving record for the last 5 years with driving experience.

Responsibilities

• Lead and support small groups and individuals through daily activities.
• Facilitate Friday movie days, garden, sports, and creative programming.
• Support community outings and visits to local organizations.
• Promote independence, confidence, and person-centered choices.
• Assist with meals, hygiene, mobility, and daily living tasks as needed.
• Maintain accurate documentation and effective team communication.

Skills

Enthusiastic

Dependable

Age 17+

Background check

English basics

Driving record

Job description

Description

A work week that includes Friday movie days, dance parties, gardening, basketball, and community outings is part of the routine for a Day Services Direct Support Professional at The Center.

This position supports adult clients with intellectual and developmental disabilities in a structured, engaging day program that values creativity, consistency, and meaningful connection.

What We Offer:

• Starting pay: $17.50 an hour, with an increase to $18.00 per hour when you complete a paid test to pass meds
• Consistent Monday–Friday schedule (8:00 AM–4:00 PM)
• Engaging, activity-based day program environment
• Opportunities to build skills and grow within the organization
• Paid training in CPR, First Aid, Mandt, and more

Benefits:

• Up to 3 weeks of Paid Time Off (PTO) per year for full-time employees
• Medical and dental insurance starting at $95/month (for eligible employees)
• Vision and life insurance
• 403(b) retirement plan with up to 3.5% company match
• Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)

Your Role:

• Lead and support small groups and individuals through daily activities, including Friday movie days, seasonal celebrations like a New Year’s Eve dance party, gardening, basketball, and creative programming
• Support individuals during community outings, including visits to the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and the Butterfly House
• Promote independence, confidence, and choice‑making in a person‑centered environment
• Provide respectful support with daily living skills as needed (meals, hygiene, mobility)
• Maintain accurate documentation and communicate effectively with team members
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and well‑structured program environment

Opportunities for growth:

We help you build a career in human services. Many of our team members start as Direct Support Professionals and move into:

• Leadership roles such as Shift Lead or House Manager
• Behavioral support roles such as Registered Behavior Technician (RBT)
• Administrative and program support roles

We promote from within and support ongoing professional development.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

We provide equal employment opportunities and prohibit discrimination based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Requirements

What We're Looking For

• Enthusiastic and creative
• Dependable and able to maintain consistent attendance
• Must be at least 17 years old
• Must pass a background check and drug screening (required by Montana law)
• Comfortable using basic English and electronic communication tools
• Clear driving record for at least the last 5 years and 5 years of driving experience