Support Coach- Direct Support Professional

Horizons, Inc; South Windham (CT); On-site; USD 55,159,000 - 62,323,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) with employer match

Vision insurance

Pet insurance

Voluntary Life Insurance

Health and Dental Insurance

Short-Term Disability

Job summary

Horizons, Inc is hiring Support Coaches to provide supports to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Connecticut. The role includes teaching and modeling, assisting individuals toward ISP goals, and daily task support.

Starting pay is $19.25–$21.75 per hour for both part-time and full-time roles. Benefits include 401(k) match, vision, pet, and voluntary life insurance, with additional health and dental coverage for full-time staff.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• At least 2 years of relevant experience or approved equivalent.
• Valid Connecticut driver’s license and reliable transportation.
• Ability to pass a criminal background check.
• Physical ability to lift 50 pounds, assist with mobility, and respond to emergencies.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct supports, teaching and modeling.
• Support individuals toward ISP goals.
• Monitor performance and help individuals meet daily responsibilities.
• Administer medications per physician orders and DDS guidelines.
• Communicate clearly and respectfully, centering the individual’s voice and privacy.
• Encourage independence while remaining responsive and compassionate.
• Participate in training, document thoughtfully, keep manager informed.

Skills

Direct supports

Teaching & modeling

CPR/First Aid

Clear communication

Education

High school diploma

Job description

Support Coach(Direct Support Professional – DSP)

Opportunities available in both our Supported Living and Supported Employment and Options programs

Part-time and full-time opportunities with day, evening, and weekend shifts available.

Horizons is hiring Support Coaches to provide supports to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.For over 40 years, Horizons has fostered dignity, connection, and inclusion across Connecticut. As a Support Coach, you’ll build real relationships while empowering individuals to achieve their personal and professional goals.

What You’ll Do

• Provide direct supports, teaching and modeling.
  
• Support individuals in working toward their personal goals as identified in their Individual Service Plan (ISP).
• Monitor performance and help individuals meet job or home responsibilities successfully each day.
• Administer medications according to physician’s orders and DDS guidelines.
• Communicate clearly and respectfully, always centering the individual’s voice and privacy.
• Encourage independence while remaining responsive and compassionate during moments of challenge.
• Participate in training, complete documentation thoughtfully, and keep your manager informed of relevant developments.

Why This Role Matters

Your guidance helps build confidence, skills, and purpose. Whether you're supporting someone through a new task or celebrating their on-the-job success, your work has a lasting impact—on individuals, families, and the greater community.

What You’ll Receive

Starting Pay: $19.25-$21.75
Part-Time Benefits:

• 401(k) with a 4% employer match
• Vision, Pet, and Voluntary Life Insurance

Full-Time Benefits

• All of the above, plus:
• Health and Dental Insurance
• Short-Term Disability and Life Insurance

What You’ll Need

• Be 21 years or older
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Valid Connecticut driver’s license, reliable transportation, and an acceptable driving record
• At least 2 years of relevant experience (or approved equivalent)
• Ability to pass a criminal background and license check
• Physical ability to lift 50 pounds, assist with mobility, and respond to emergencies, including CPR/First Aid

Why Horizons?

Horizons is a deeply rooted, mission-driven nonprofit committed to inclusion, creativity, and person-centered support. From our beginnings as a summer camp to becoming a year-round provider of Supported Employment, Living, and Educational Services, we support nearly 1,700 individuals annually—with heart and high expectations.

We believe in seeing possibility—where others might not—and in helping people achieve more than they thought possible.

Learn more at www.horizonsct.org

A Note to Potential Applicants

We know the strongest teams are built on diversity—of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. Studies show that people from underrepresented groups often hesitate to apply unless they meet every qualification. If this role excites you, we encourage you to apply—even if you don’t check every single box.

Your cover letter is a great place to share what draws you to this work and what you hope to contribute to the Horizons community. We’d love to hear from you.