Direct Support Professional (Residential) (22859)

We Do Life...Together; Naugatuck (CT); On-site; USD 25,000 - 28,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Longevity incentive

Job summary

ICES Inc. is seeking an Entry Level Direct Support Professional (DSP) at 35 Elm Street, Naugatuck, CT. You will work in residential and vocational settings to help individuals lead their best lives, under supervision from a Residential or Vocational Manager.

The role offers advancement opportunities to increase responsibilities and pay. Requirements include a high school diploma or GED, valid driver’s license, and certifications (DDS Med, CPR, PMT).

Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED required.
• DDS Med Certification within first six months of employment.
• CPR, PMT, and Human Rights/Neglect trainings required.
• Minimum 18 years old; valid driver’s license.

Responsibilities

• Meet individuals' needs in accordance with their plans, including medical and behavioral appointments, daily living skills, finances, and transportation.
• Maintain and update individuals’ plans per state and agency requirements.
• Perform daily housekeeping tasks and upkeep of the home or work environment.
• Provide safe transportation for individuals and maintain agency vehicles.
• Administer medication and follow delegated medical instructions (Med Certification required).
• Communicate with management about performance, successes, and issues.
• Participate in the Interdisciplinary Team focused on Individual Plans.
• Collaborate with DSPs and administrative staff to share insights.
• Identify and participate in projects that foster long-term growth for individuals.
• Understand how each department interacts with individuals.

Skills

Communication skills

Teamwork

Problem-solving

Independent working

Attention to detail

Knowledge of IDD

Valid driver’s license

Proficient with devices

Education

High School diploma or GED

DDS Med Certification

CPR certification

PMT certification

Human Rights and Neglect training

Job description

Job Details

Level: Entry
Job Location: 35 Elm Street – Naugatuck, CT 06770
Position Type: Full Time
Education Level: High School/GED
Salary Range: $18.00 – $19.75 Hourly
Travel Percentage: Local Travel
Job Category: Direct Support Professional

Rewards

Earn a $500 longevity incentive after just one year of employment. Longevity incentives grow the longer you stay with us. You will be rewarded for exceptional performance and dedication.

Company Overview

Since 1998, ICES Inc. is a human services company serving individuals with cognitive disorders, mental illness, and those on the autistic spectrum. Our caring human service professionals focus on the individuals’ strengths to make the most of valuable community resources while promoting respect and dignity. We serve individuals in private residences, respite facilities, emergency placements, community work sites, training centers, supervised living arrangements, and our own state‑licensed group homes.

About the Role

Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) are an important role within our organization, working directly with individuals to help them lead their best lives in both Residential and Vocational settings. DSPs report to a Residential Program Manager or a Vocational Manager depending on placement, and the role offers advancement opportunities to increase responsibilities and pay.

Responsibilities

• Ensure the needs of individuals are met consistently in accordance with their plans, including medical and behavioral appointments, job‑skill/vocational needs, daily living skills, finances, transportation, etc.
• Maintain and update individuals’ plans as needed in compliance with state and agency requirements.
• Perform daily housekeeping tasks and upkeep of the individual's home or work environment.
• Provide safe transportation for individuals and maintain agency vehicles with required documentation.
• Administer medication and implement delegated responsibilities ordered by licensed medical personnel (Med Certification required).
• Communicate regularly with the management team regarding individual’s performance, successes, and issues.
• Participate actively on the Interdisciplinary Team focused on developing and implementing Individual Plans.
• Partner with other DSPs and administrative team members to share expertise and insights.
• Identify and participate in projects or initiatives that contribute to long‑term excellence and individuals’ growth.
• Develop an understanding of how each department interacts with individuals.

Required Trainings and Certifications

• DDS Med Certification (within first six months of employment)
• CPR certification
• PMT certification
• Human Rights and Neglect training
• Attendance at Mandatory Staff Meetings

Physical Demands

Standing, walking, and sitting for extended periods; occasional lifting (up to 25 pounds); may require work outside.

Qualifications

• Desire to ensure the greater good for individuals
• Resourcefulness and problem‑solving skills
• Demonstrated respect for others
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Results‑oriented mindset and accountability
• Timeliness and punctuality
• Knowledge and understanding of Intellectual Developmental Disabilities
• Minimum 18 years old
• High School diploma or GED
• Valid driver’s license
• Proficient with smartphones, tablets, and computers