Job detail

Direct Support Staff

Advocates

#Driver's License #Medication Administration #Developmental Disabilities #Activities of Daily Living #Community Integration #Empowerment #Residential Setting #Self-Advocacy #Team-Oriented

Quick overview

The Direct Support Staff will provide ongoing support, guidance, and role modeling to individuals with developmental disabilities in a residential setting, assisting with daily living activities like cooking and personal hygiene. Responsibilities also include medication administration, following Individual Support Plans, transporting residents, completing shift notes, and ensuring a safe environment.

Requirements summary

Candidates must possess a High School Diploma or GED and have a valid driver's license with access to an insured vehicle for client transport. Preferred qualifications include prior experience working with the population and demonstrated understanding of serving culturally diverse populations.

high schoolInterpersonal SkillsWritten CommunicationVerbal CommunicationCoachingDrivingComputer ApplicationsCultural CompetenceJudgmentTeam-OrientedClient-Centered

Job description

Overview Starting Rate

$18.50/hour
Schedule: Thursday 3-11pm, Friday 3-11pm, Saturday 3pm-9pm and Sunday 3-11pm 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’ll provide hands-on support, guidance, and encouragement to adults with developmental disabilities. This is an entry-level role with meaningful responsibilities and the chance to build lasting relationships. In this role, you’ll assist individuals with daily living activities, such as personal care, meals, routines and community outings – while helping them build skills and independence.

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. Are you ready to make a difference? Minimum Education Required High School Diploma/GED Shift Blended Shift

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

High school diploma or 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.