Independent Living Specialist

Dungarvin inc; Chisago City (MN); On-site; USD 26,174 - 30,307; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Vision & Dental Insurance

401(k) Match

PTO

Paid Training

Life Insurance

Employee Discounts

Flexible Spending Account/HSA

Pet Insurance

Growth Opportunities

Referral Program

Job summary

Dungarvin inc is seeking dedicated professionals to provide in‑home and in‑community support for individuals with disabilities in Minnesota. The role requires a valid driver's license, reliable vehicle, and willingness to drive within a 30‑mile radius to assist with daily activities and skill development.

You will work full‑time on a 9am–7pm caseload, traveling to shifts and supporting individuals to live more independently, with mileage reimbursement provided.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years old (or 21 depending on person-served).
• Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record and auto liability insurance.
• Reliable vehicle to transport person-served and travel to shifts.
• Strong reading, writing and communication skills to document care.
• Willingness to drive within a 30-mile radius and be flexible.

Responsibilities

• Assist individuals 1:1 in‑home and in‑community settings to promote independence.
• Support daily activities such as personal care, meal prep, transportation, housekeeping and laundry.
• Maintain a clean, safe space and help individuals reach personal goals.
• Provide skill development in areas like community participation and wellness.
• Accompany person-served on errands and appointments and assist with budgeting.
• Attend team meetings, write progress reports, and assist supervisors for consistency.
• Contribute to positive outcomes through coaching, mentoring, and encouragement.

Skills

Valid driver's license

Reliable vehicle

Strong communication

Team player

Flexibility

Education

High school diploma or GED

Associates in relevant field OR 2 years related experience

Job description

At Dungarvin, we are more than a national provider of support services—we are a mission-driven organization rooted in respect, inclusion, and person‑centered care. Since 1976, we have been committed to enhancing the quality of life for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including those with mental health, behavioral, and complex medical needs.

Dungarvin’s mission is simple yet powerful: respecting and responding to the choices of people in need of supports. This mission guides everything we do—from the way we build individualized service plans to how we engage with families, teams, and communities. We believe each person deserves to direct their own life, and we work to ensure their voices are heard and honored.

Operating across fifteen states, our team members—from direct support professionals to administrative staff—share a common purpose: to empower people with disabilities to live meaningful lives, on their own terms. Through Medicaid and Community Support Waivers, we deliver flexible, high‑quality services tailored to each individual’s goals, values, and aspirations.

Join our Dungarvin family and help us make a lasting impact—one person, one voice, one choice at a time.

Job Description

Must be a valid driver

This is a position that provides a personalized blend of in‑home and in‑community services that focus on the support and skill development a person needs to maintain and/or increase their independence and teach individual life‑skills. The goals will look different for each person‑served that you provide support to, and this position will work both in‑community and in‑home settings. Staff will work with multiple person‑served and will need to use their own personal vehicle to drive to and from shifts and to transport the person‑served. Mileage reimbursement is offered.

This is not a residential group‑home setting

Wage Range: $19.50/hour
Listed pay range is based on experience level and may vary depending on an individuals skills and qualifications.

Available locations and schedules:

• Full‑time caseload between the hours of 9am‑7pm
• Schedules are subject to change based on the individuals needs

In this position you will have the opportunity to:

• Assist individuals in a 1:1 in‑home and in‑community setting as you support them in pursuing a happy, healthy, and more independent life.
• Assist individuals with daily activities like personal care, meal prep, transportation, housekeeping, and laundry, all while fostering independence.
• Maintain a clean, safe space that ensures comfort and support while helping individuals reach their personal goals.
• Provide skill development in areas including but not limited to: community participation, health, safety and wellness, household management and adaptive skills.
  • Examples: Accompanying person‑served on errands and appointments, budgeting skills, and integrating into social events
• Attend team meetings, write progress reports, and assist supervisors in maintaining consistency in service provision and communication with support team members.
• Create lasting, positive impacts on peoples’ lives through coaching, mentoring, and encouraging others to reach their goals.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years old or 21 years old depending on the person‑served
• Education, training, or two years equivalent experience in working with developmentally disabled and/or Mental Illness, as determined by the supervisor. Must be responsible, reliable, and able to carry out job functions without direct supervision.
• Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record, auto liability insurance, and a reliable vehicle to transport person‑served (required)
• High school diploma or GED
• Associates in relevant field OR two years equivalent experience in working with developmentally disabled and/or mental illness, as determined by the supervisor.
• Willing to drive a 30‑mile radius
• Adept in the use of technology and possess a smart device with adequate data
• Must be flexible and a team player, willing to provide the resources and positive support needed for the person‑served
• Good communication is key in this role. You’ll rely on your reading, writing, and communication skills to document care, follow support plans, and collaborate with both internal and external team members.

Additional Information

• Medical, Vision and Dental Insurance for full‑time employees
• Supplemental Insurance
• Flex Spending and HSA Accounts for full‑time employees
• Pet Insurance
• Life Insurance for full‑time employees
• 401 K plan with up to 3% employer match after one year of services
• Paid Time Off (PTO) for eligible employees
• Growth and Development Opportunities
• Employee Referral Program
• Employee Assistance Program
• National Brand Discounts
• Tapcheck – access up to 50% of your pay before payday
• Paid training and orientation

We believe in supporting not only those we serve but also each other, ensuring a collaborative and supportive work environment for all. Dungarvin is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, protected veteran status, disability, genetic information, national origin, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any legally protected status per federal and/or state law.