$Recruitment Bonus Available$ Community Support Staff - CSS

GASTON RESIDENTIAL SERVICES INC•Gastonia, NC

About The Position

The Community Support Staff (CSS) provides direct support to individuals in competitive employment, volunteer roles, community integration activities, and recreation/leisure pursuits. The CSS assists individuals in developing, refining, and maintaining the skills needed to succeed in community settings while promoting independence, advocacy, and safety. This role requires strong communication skills, sound judgment, reliability, and the ability to work independently across multiple community locations.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED required; 4-year degree preferred.
Minimum 6 months experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities or related needs.
Demonstrated interpersonal skills, discretion, and sound judgment.
Ability to work independently and manage time effectively.
Basic computer skills with willingness to improve proficiency.
Must maintain confidentiality and comply with HIPAA, state privacy laws, and GRS data protection policies.
Valid driver’s license and insurable driving record preferred (may be required based on individual support needs).
Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, lift, and move intermittently throughout the workday.
Must be able to lift and carry 35–50 lbs. as needed.
Ability to travel between multiple community locations and work sites.
Work may occur in varied environments including businesses, outdoor settings, and community organizations.
A specific schedule will be assigned, but hours may vary based on individual needs. May require early mornings, evenings, weekends, or holidays depending on employment schedules and community activities.

Nice To Haves

4-year degree preferred.
Valid driver’s license and insurable driving record preferred (may be required based on individual support needs).

Responsibilities

Provide job coaching and on-the-job support to help individuals maintain competitive employment.
Ensure work tasks meet employer standards for accuracy, quality, and timeliness.
Teach new work skills, refine existing skills, and support development of natural workplace supports.
Assist individuals in following employer policies, workplace expectations, and safety guidelines.
Identify and develop adaptive equipment or tools needed for job success.
Assist individuals in accessing community activities, volunteer opportunities, and recreation/leisure programs.
Provide social interaction support and encourage independence in community settings.
Ensure all community site rules and expectations are followed.
Promote self-advocacy and support individuals in expressing personal goals, preferences, and needs.
Build a trusting, professional relationship with each individual.
Identify opportunities for increased independence and skill improvement.
Ensure goals and supports align with the individual’s service plan.
Maintain open communication with employers, CMG staff, VR counselors, caregivers, case managers, and other stakeholders.
Communicate daily updates and relevant changes to the CMG team.
Facilitate accurate and professional interactions with coworkers, supervisors, and community partners.
Complete daily documentation in accordance with funding source requirements.
Submit accurate timecards as required.
Prepare weekly schedules that include all work sites, community activities, meetings, and travel time.
Assist individuals in securing transportation as needed, which may include coordinating public or specialized transportation.
Provide supportive counseling related to workplace, social, or personal challenges.
Follows all GRS safety procedures, employer site safety rules, and emergency protocols.
Complies with mandated reporting laws related to suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation.
Ensures immediate reporting of hazards, incidents, or safety concerns.
Maintains the confidentiality of all individuals served and complies with HIPAA, state privacy regulations, funding source requirements, and GRS confidentiality policies.
Must maintain a valid driver’s license and an insurable driving record in accordance with GRS standards.
Must have reliable transportation and maintain current automobile insurance as required by GRS policy.
Must be able to safely operate a vehicle to transport individuals served, attend appointments, participate in community activities, and complete agency business as needed.