Job Title: Respite Worker
Department
- DDS
- Community
- Respite
- Program
- Reports To: Respite Coordinator
FLSA Status
- Non-Exempt (Hourly)
- Location:
- Springfield,
- MA
- Employment
- Type: Part-Time (10 hours/week)
Salary Range: $23/hour
About New North Citizens’ Council (NNCC)
New North Citizens’ Council is a community-based nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for residents through education, workforce development, family support, and community services. NNCC is committed to equity, inclusion, and culturally responsive service delivery.
Position Summary
The Community Respite Worker provides individualized and group respite services to children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Working under the direction of the Respite Coordinator and in accordance with Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services (DDS) guidelines, this position supports safe, meaningful community participation while providing families and caregivers with dependable respite support.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
(Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.)
Respite & Individual Support
Provide individualized and group respite services in community-based settings.
Support individuals in participating in recreational, social, educational, and other preferred community activities.
Provide person-centered support based on each individual's interests, abilities, needs, and goals.
Promote independence, positive social interaction, and community inclusion.
Model and reinforce positive behavior and appropriate social skills.
Recognize and respond appropriately to individual health, behavioral, and safety needs.
Provide transportation to approved activities and community locations as required.
Family & Program Coordination
Develop positive, respectful relationships with individuals and their families or caregivers.
Maintain regular communication with the Respite Coordinator, Family Support Navigator, and other program staff regarding services and participant needs.
Assist with planning and coordinating group respite and community activities.
Maintain knowledge of community activities, recreational opportunities, and resources appropriate for program participants.
Communicate changes, concerns, incidents, or service needs promptly to the appropriate program staff.
Documentation & Compliance
Complete weekly service documentation and other required program records accurately and on time.
Follow DDS requirements, individualized support plans, agency policies, and applicable health and safety procedures.
Maintain participant confidentiality and professional boundaries.
Participate in required meetings, training, and professional development activities.
Perform other related duties as assigned.
Required Qualifications
High school diploma or GED, or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
Experience working with children or adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities preferred.
Ability to work independently and provide reliable, patient, and compassionate support.
Ability to recognize and respond appropriately to individual health, behavioral, and safety needs.
Strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
Basic computer skills and ability to complete required electronic or written documentation.
Valid Massachusetts driver's license and access to a reliable transportation.
Preferred Qualifications
- 2 or more years of experience in human services, respite care, direct support, or a related field.
- Experience supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.
- Training or experience in Positive Behavioral Supports, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), or related approaches.
- Knowledge of community-based recreational and social opportunities.
- Bilingual and bicultural (English/Spanish).
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- Core Competencies
- Person-Centered Support
- Reliability & Accountability
- Communication & Relationship Building
- Safety Awareness
- Cultural Responsiveness
- Teamwork & Collaboration
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
Work is primarily performed in community settings and may include individual, family, and group environments.
Regular local travel and transportation of participants to approved activities may be required.
The position may require standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and participating in community activities for extended periods.
Ability to lift and carry materials weighing up to 25 pounds.
Work schedules may vary based on participant and family respite needs and may include evenings or weekends.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
New North Citizens’ Council is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under federal, state, or local law.
ADA & Reasonable Accommodation Statement
NNCC is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
At-Will Employment Disclaimer
Employment with NNCC is at-will and may be terminated by either the employee or the organization at any time, with or without cause or notice, in accordance with applicable law.
