Skilled Direct Support Professional (Behavioral)

Community Options, Inc.; Smyrna (TN); On-site; USD 27,552 - 31,684; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive benefits (Medical, Dental,

Paid holidays

Generous PTO

403b Retirement Plan

Career growth opportunities

Job summary

Community Options, Inc. is hiring Direct Support Professionals to provide compassionate care in Specialized Supported Living Homes in Smyrna, TN.

The role focuses on supporting adults with autism and intellectual disabilities, including those with challenging behaviors. A valid driver’s license and background checks are required, with CPR/First Aid, Medication Administration, and CPI certifications preferred.

Qualifications

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong organizational and documentation skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries.
• Calm and effective response in crisis situations.

Responsibilities

• Implement individualized behavioral support strategies and assist with crisis de-escalation.
• Support daily living activities, personal care, and skill development toward independence.
• Promote person-centered outcomes and empower individuals to make their own choices.
• Facilitate community integration, social connections, and meaningful activities.
• Transport individuals to appointments, work sites, and community events.
• Assist with meal preparation, housekeeping, and household management.
• Administer and monitor medications as required.
• Maintain accurate documentation using electronic record systems.
• Follow customer service standards when interacting with individuals, families, and stakeholders.
• Attend required trainings and maintain compliance with agency policies.
• Ensure confidentiality and proper use of agency and personal resources.

Skills

Strong communication

Multitasking

Organization & documentation

Confidentiality & boundaries

Crisis response

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Community Options, Inc. is a national nonprofit organization serving individuals with disabilities across 12 states.

We are seeking compassionate and dedicated Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to provide care and support for adults in Specialized Supported Living Homes in Smyrna, TN. The ideal candidate will have experience working with individuals with autism, intellectual disabilities, and co-occurring mental health or psychiatric conditions. Extensive experience supporting individuals with challenging behaviors is required.

$20.00/ hourly

Key Responsibilities

• Implement individualized behavioral support strategies and assist with crisis de-escalation
• Support daily living activities, personal care, and skill development toward independence
• Promote person-centered outcomes and empower individuals to make their own choices
• Facilitate community integration, social connections, and meaningful activities
• Transport individuals to appointments, work sites, and community events
• Assist with meal preparation, housekeeping, and household management
• Administer and monitor medications as required
• Maintain accurate documentation using electronic record systems
• Follow customer service standards when interacting with individuals, families, and stakeholders
• Attend required trainings and maintain compliance with agency policies
• Ensure confidentiality and proper use of agency and personal resources

Minimum Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years old
• High school diploma or GED required
• Two years of experience supporting youth or adults with challenging behaviors
• Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record
• Ability to pass background checks, drug screening, and registry clearances
• Ability to meet and maintain all required training certifications

Required Skills & Abilities

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment
• Strong organizational and documentation skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries
• Calm and effective response in crisis situations

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and lift as needed
• Capability to perform CPR, crisis intervention techniques, and emergency responses
• Ability to transport individuals safely
• Work occurs in both residential and community-based environments

Certifications & Licenses

• Valid Driver’s License (required)
• Must be able to successfully complete and maintain CPR/First Aid Certification
• Must be able to successfully complete and maintain Medication Administration Certification
• Must be able to successfully complete and maintain CPI (Crisis Prevention Institute) Certification
• Valid auto insurance required if using a personal vehicle

Additional Information

This position may require flexible scheduling, including evenings, weekends, and overtime as needed. Duties may evolve based on program needs.

Why Join Us?

At Community Options, Inc., you’ll make a meaningful difference in the lives of others while working in a supportive, mission-driven environment.

• Competitive Insurance Benefits (Medical, Dental, Vision)
• Paid Holidays—Including a Birthday Holiday
• Generous PTO
• Employee Incentive & Discount Programs
• 403b Retirement Plan
• Incredible career growth opportunities

Community Options is an Equal Opportunity EmployerM/F/D/V