Direct Support Staff - Developmental Services

Advocates; West Natick (MA); On-site; USD 21,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Advocates is seeking Direct Support Staff to provide hands-on care for adults with developmental disabilities in a residential setting. This entry-level position offers meaningful responsibilities and growth opportunities, with a starting rate of $18.50/hour and a weekend-inclusive schedule (Sun 9a-3p, Mon 9a-11p, Wed 3p-11p).

You will assist with daily living activities, community outings, and personal care while promoting independence and dignity.

Qualifications

• 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
• High School Diploma or GED 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
• 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

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication

Coaching

Teamwork

Fast-paced environment

Basic computer skills

Education

High School Diploma/GED

CPR/First Aid

MAP/SOLVE/HR-DPPC certifications

Job description

Overview

Starting Rate: $18.50/hour

Schedule: Sunday 9a-3p, Monday 9a-11p, Wednesday 3p-11p

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 toadultswith 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,routinesand 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.

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 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.