Direct Support Professional for IDD

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; North Carolina; On-site; USD 19,000 - 27,000; Part time

Job summary

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is seeking a Direct Support Professional for IDD to assist autistic residents with higher support needs at the Carolina Living and Learning Center (CLLC) in North Carolina. This part-time temporary role involves working up to 20 hours per week and supporting residents to live as independently as possible.

The successful candidate will collaborate with TEACCH staff, adhere to safety practices, and participate in a diverse community.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated possession of the competencies necessary to perform the work.
• Professional or caregiving experience with autistic, disabled, or senior adults.
• Experience with autism or dementia.
• Clear oral and written communication with patients, families, co-workers, or teams.
• Proficient in using technology, including daily email communication, or entering client information into electronic medical records (EMR).
• Ability to remain calm, professional, or effective while working with individuals who may exhibit challenging behaviors.
• Ability to move at least 30 pounds; may be required to assist patients in and out of bed or use mobility devices. Provide patient ambulatory support.

Responsibilities

• Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) work directly with autistic residents with higher support needs to promote independence.
• Assist residents with daily living activities and ensure safety and well-being.
• Collaborate with TEACCH staff and contribute to a diverse, compassionate community.

Job description

Posting Information

• Department: CIND - TEACCH - CLLC - 427480
• Career Area: Other
• Posting Open Date: 09/14/2026
• Application Deadline: 09/21/2026
• Position Type: Temporary Staff (SHRA)
• Position Title: Direct Support Professional for IDD
• Position Number: 20034375
• Vacancy ID: S028062
• Full-time/Part-time: Part-Time Temporary
• Hours per week: 20
• Work Schedule: To be determined by supervisor and applicant.
• Position Location: North Carolina, US
• Hiring Range: $16.50 per hour
• Estimated Duration of Appointment: Occasional/Seasonal

Be a Tar Heel!

The Direct Support Professional for IDD position is located at the Carolina Living and Learning Center ( CLLC ), just north of Pittsboro and next door to Chatham Park, where a variety of new amenities are now available (e.g., Lowe's Foods, People's Coffee, Greek Kouzina, the Refuel station). We're at the intersection of peaceful country living and busy modern life, where we can take advantage of both lifestyles. On our 79 acres, we serve 15 autistic adults with higher support needs. They live in two homes on our beautiful farm, where we also have a barn, a potting shed, and a greenhouse to provide plenty of year-round activities.

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to serve this unique, vulnerable population, while collaborating with our dedicated and compassionate staff. We are a diverse community, united by our desire to make a difference in the lives of our residents. There is no more meaningful way to use your professional skills. Plus, we have plenty of free parking and a commitment to work-life balance. Come and join our community!

Primary Purpose Of Organizational Unit

The University of North Carolina TEACCH Autism program is system of university-based regional centers to serve autistic children, adolescents and adults and their families. As part of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, the program has an active clinical, teaching, and research program. TEACCH operates seven community regional clinics. Our clinics and programs offer a set of core services along with unique demonstration programs meeting the needs of autistic individuals, their families, and professionals across the state of North Carolina. Also, part of TEACCH is the Carolina Living and Learning Center, a residential/vocational training facility for autistic adults as well as an Employment Services program providing Job Coaching and related services to adults on the spectrum.

TEACCH is currently part of the Carolina Institute for Neurodevelopmental Disabilities ( CIND ) program. All TEACCH programs are coordinated through a central administration and research unit in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

TEACCH provides clinical services such as diagnostic evaluations, psychotherapy, speech language therapy, occupational therapy and parent support groups. In addition, TEACCH conducts training within the state of North Carolina, nationally and internationally and provides consultation for teachers, residential care providers, and other professionals from a variety of disciplines.

TEACCH conducts clinical research focused on providing evidence-based care to autistic individuals and their families in their home communities. Our research examines intervention effectiveness in clinic, school, and community settings. Ongoing research includes a school-based anxiety intervention program, a community college-based transition to adulthood program, a telehealth program treating depression and anxiety in autistic adults, and a physical activity program for autistic adults. Studies also examine the services needs related to early intervention, employment and aging.

TEACCH has 48 full and part-time faculty, 150+ staff and provides training opportunities in both research and clinical activities for interns, postdocs and other graduate and undergraduate students.

This position is located at the CLLC in Pittsboro NC.

Position Summary

This position is a part-time position with the TEACCH Autism Program, located at the Carolina Living and Learning Center ( CLLC ). Our Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) work directly with our autistic residents with higher support needs. DSPs are charged with assisting our residents to live as fully and as independently as possible. They are not merely caregivers; they provide whatever support is necessary for our residents to thrive.

Employees in this position are considered Mandatory Employees of the University, meaning they are required to work during any adverse event that prompts reduced/suspended operations ( such as adverse weather conditions). This position is also a CDME (Communicable Disease Mandatory Employee) as well and required to work during a State of Emergency Order.

Minimum Education And Experience Requirements

Demonstrated possession of the competencies necessary to perform the work.

Management Preferences

• Professional or caregiving experience with autistic, disabled, or senior adults
• Experience with autism or dementia
• Clear oral and written communication with patients, families, co-workers, or teams
• Proficient in using technology, including daily email communication, or entering client information into electronic medical records ( EMR )
• Ability to remain calm, professional, or effective while working with individuals who may exhibit challenging behaviors

Special Physical/Mental Requirements

The Direct Support Professional ( DSP ) must be able to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Ability to move at least 30 pounds; May be required to assist patients in and out of bed or use mobility devices. Provide patient ambulatory support.

Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, squatting, holding, carrying, and twisting throughout shift - on even and uneven surfaces. Provide assistance with client Activities of Daily Living (ADLs). Ability to use physical de-escalation techniques with clients.

Fine and gross motor skills are needed for assisting with hygiene care, meal preparation, medication administration, and other daily living activities.

Ability to walk at a steady pace or stand for at least 30 minutes consecutively.

Campus Security Authority Responsibilities

Not Applicable.

Special Instructions

Quick Link https://unc.peopleadmin.com/postings/325370

Posting Contact Information

Office of Human Resources Contact Information

If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the Office of Human Resources at [phone] or send an email to [e-mail]

Please note: The Office of Human Resources will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.