Direct Support Staff - Female only -Developmental Services

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

Job summary

Advocates in Franklin, Massachusetts is hiring for the role of Direct Support Staff. This entry-level position involves supporting individuals with developmental disabilities in a residential setting. Responsibilities include assisting with daily living activities, providing guidance, and facilitating community integration. Candidates should have a high school diploma, excellent communication skills, and a valid driver’s license. The role requires a commitment to a diverse and inclusive community. Shifts include weekends, from 3 PM to 11 PM on Saturday and Sunday.

Qualifications

• Experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities preferred.
• Must hold a valid driver’s license and access to an operational vehicle.

Responsibilities

• Support individuals in daily activities promoting self-advocacy.
• Assist with planning and implementation of daily activity schedules.
• Encourage active participation in community events.

Skills

Excellent interpersonal skills

Strong written and verbal communication skills

Judgement and coaching skills

Ability to utilize basic computer applications

Desire to thrive in a client-centered team environment

Education

High school diploma or equivalent degree

Job description

Overview

Starting rate: $18.50/hour

Weekend 2nd shift

The Direct Support Staff position is an entry-level role where you can support individuals with developmental disabilities and start your career in human services! In the Direct Support Staff role, you will provide ongoing support, guidance, and role modeling directly to individuals served in a residential setting. You will be responsible for assisting residents with activities of daily living such as cooking, personal hygiene, and dressing, administering and managing medication, following Individual Support Plans (ISPs), transporting residents to appointments when needed, and completing shift notes. Direct Support staff ensure the program is a welcoming, comfortable and safe environment. You will get to work closely with parents and/or guardians to collaborate on how to best support each individual. You will also support residents of the program with community integration by doing things such as group activities, taking trips to events, and volunteering.

Minimum Education Required

High School Diploma/GED

Shift

Second Shift

Additional Shift Details

Saturday and Sunday 3pm-11pm

Responsibilities

• Support individuals in daily activities inside their home and in the community by promoting self-advocacy, decision‑making and empowerment. Provide guidance and role modeling as appropriate.
• Assist individuals with planning and implementation of daily activity schedules and routines.
• Assist individuals to identify and develop person‑centered goals and plans to address any concerns, wants or needs.
• Encourage active participation in community events and other integrated activities.
• Assist individuals with home maintenance and perform cleaning responsibilities.
• Document shift notes summarizing any applicable occurrences, observations, concerns or progress.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent degree. Experience working with the population preferred!
• Excellent interpersonal, judgement and coaching skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to utilize basic computer applications.
• Desire to thrive in a fast‑paced, client‑centered, team‑oriented environment.
• Must hold a valid driver’s license, have access to an operational and insured vehicle and be willing to use it to transport clients.
• Strongly prefer a candidate that will have a demonstrated understanding of and competence in serving 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.