Direct Support Staff

Advocates; Gardner (MA); On-site; USD 21,025 - 29,945; Part time

Job summary

Advocates in Gardner, MA is looking for a compassionate Direct Support Staff to provide meaningful support to adults with developmental disabilities. This entry-level role offers opportunities for growth while assisting individuals with daily activities, meals, and community outings.

Join us to make a real impact in people's lives, promoting independence and dignity in a supportive environment. A High School Diploma is required, and a background in human services is preferred.

Qualifications

• Experience in human services or similar populations preferred.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to transport individuals.

Responsibilities

• Provide daily support at home and in the community.
• Help plan and implement daily routines and activities.
• Support individuals in setting and achieving person-centered goals.
• Document observations, progress, and any concerns.
• Implement established treatment and support plans.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Coaching skills

Basic computer skills

Education

High School Diploma/GED

Job description

Overview

Starting Rate: $18.50/hour

Schedule: Friday 3-11pm and Saturday 9am-11pm

We’re looking for enthusiastic, compassionate, and motivated team players to provide meaningful support to individuals in a residential setting. If you’re ready to start—or grow!—your career in human services, this is a great opportunity to make a real impact every day.

As a Direct Support Staff, you’ll provide hands-on support, guidance, and encouragement to adults with developmental disabilities. This is an entry-level role with meaningful responsibilities and the chance to build lasting relationships. In this role, you’ll assist individuals with daily living activities, such as personal care, meals, routines, and community outings – while helping them build skills and independence.

Direct support professionals at Advocates enjoy a supportive environment, opportunities for advancement, and a strong commitment to work-life balance.

Who We Are

At Advocates, we provide comprehensive services for people facing developmental, mental health, or other life challenges. We’re a nonprofit, mission-driven organization with a person-centered approach, empowering the individuals we support to make choices, build independence, and live full, meaningful lives. Our work is rooted in respect, compassion, and inclusion, and we envision a world where individual differences are appreciated and celebrated.

At Advocates, we value the ideas, experiences, and contributions of employees and are committed to fostering a supportive, welcoming culture where everyone can grow and thrive.

Are you ready to make a difference?

Minimum Education Required

High School Diploma/GED

Responsibilities

• Provide daily support at home and in the community
• Help plan and implement daily routines and activities
• Support individuals in setting and achieving person-centered goals
• Encourage participation in community and social opportunities
• Support household cleaning and maintenance tasksDocument observations, progress, and any concerns
• Implement established treatment and support plans
• Provide physical intervention in crisis situations when necessary
• Maintain required certifications (CPR/First Aid, MAP, SOLVE, HR/DPPC)
• Ensure individuals are treated with dignity, respect, and in alignment with Human Rights policies

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Experience in human services or with similar populations preferred
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and coaching skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented, person-centered environment
• Basic computer skills required
• Valid driver’s license, reliable vehicle, and willingness to transport individuals
• Commitment to supporting culturally diverse populations

Advocates is committed to cultivating a diverse and welcoming community where everyone feels respected and valued. Advocates fosters a culture of inclusion that celebrates and promotes diversity along multiple dimensions, including race, ethnicity, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, partnered status, age, national origin, socioeconomic status, religion, ability, culture, and experience.