Direct Support Staff - Developmental Services

Advocates; Littleton (MA); On-site; USD 21,025 - 29,945; Full time

Job summary

Advocates in Littleton, Massachusetts is seeking enthusiastic Direct Support Staff to provide hands-on support to adults with developmental disabilities. This entry-level position involves assisting individuals with daily living activities, facilitating community outings, and fostering meaningful relationships.

A High School Diploma or GED is required, alongside strong interpersonal and communication skills. The position offers a starting rate of $18.50/hour with a blended schedule including Saturday and Wednesday shifts.

Qualifications

• Experience in human services or with similar populations preferred.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented, person-centered environment.
• Valid driver's license and reliable vehicle required.

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.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Coaching skills

Basic computer skills

Education

High School Diploma/GED

Job description

Starting Rate: $18.50/hour

Schedule: Saturday 9a-6p, Wedensday 3-9p

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’llprovide hands‑on support, guidance, and encouragement to adultswith developmental disabilities. This is an entry‑level role with meaningful responsibilities and the chance to build lasting relationships. In this role,you’llassistindividualswith daily living activities, such as personal care, meals, routines and community outings – while helping them build skills and independence.

Minimum Education Required

High School Diploma/GED

Shift

Blended Shift

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 tasks
• Document 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

• Highschooldiplomaor 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