Advocates·Boston, Massachusetts
Provide daily hands-on support and guidance to adults with developmental disabilities in residential and community settings. Assist with daily living activities, implement treatment plans, and help individuals achieve person-centered goals.
$19.00/hour Monday 9am-3pm, Tuesday 9am-3pm, Wednesday 9am-3pm, Thursday 9am-3pm, Friday 9am-3pm 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.
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. Minimum Education Required High School Diploma/GED Shift First Shift
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
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.
A high school diploma or GED is required, along with a valid driver's license and reliable vehicle. Experience in human services is preferred, as is the ability to maintain certifications like CPR/First Aid and MAP.
Market context
In Massachusetts, direct support staff roles are typically in steady demand because providers need dependable frontline staff for daily care and community support. These jobs are competitive when candidates already have human services experience, current CPR/First Aid and MAP credentials, and reliable transportation. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then confirm your license, vehicle access, and certification status before applying.
