Direct Support Professional I (Homes)

Imagine the Possibilities Inc • Jefferson, IA

21d • $17 - $19

About The Position

This entry-level role operates in a Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) setting, providing medical, social, and supportive services to people with functional, cognitive, physical, or mental health needs. Direct Support Professionals help individuals pursue personal goals, build skills, increase independence, and participate in recreational and community activities. They work as part of a care team with other Direct Support Professionals, Programmers, Supervisors, individuals served, and families, using individualized behavioral care plans and person-centered support. The work takes place in homes and community settings and includes direct care, documentation, transportation, medication administration, and support for safety and daily living.

The position requires reliable attendance, including weekends and holidays, completion of required training, and adherence to agency policies and procedures. The role is entry-level, with comprehensive training provided. Base pay is $17 per hour, with the possibility of a higher starting rate based on education and experience. Scheduling options and benefits depend on full-time or part-time status and program needs.

Requirements

• Mission-oriented and motivated to empower people to achieve individual goals.
• Adaptable and willing to learn new approaches to caregiving and support.
• Strong communication abilities.
• Confidence and self-awareness to advocate for others and follow leadership appropriately.
• Minimum age depends on setting: at least 16 for Supported Community Living (SCL) settings and at least 18 for Habilitation (HAB) settings.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to drive safely for transportation as needed.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Must be authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.
• Must remain awake during working hours.
• Ability to assist with transfers between a wheelchair, chair, bed, toilet, vehicle, or similar locations.
• Ability to lift up to 35 pounds; lifting more than 35 pounds requires a two-person lift, mechanical lift, or assistive equipment.
• Ability to participate in activities chosen by individuals served, such as church services, swimming, or bowling.
• Ability to walk and stand for up to eight hours, and to bend, stoop, and stretch frequently.
• Ability to drive for up to eight hours when required.
• Ability to work in various climatic conditions and with difficult emotional or physical behaviors, including seizures or physical aggression.
• Ability to see objects and people at a distance and to see close work such as typed or handwritten material.
• Ability to hear conversations in quiet and noisy environments, determine the direction of a sound, and distinguish among bells, buzzers, beeps, and horns.
• Ability to communicate through speech and drive and transport individuals as needed for service provision.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the HCBS Supervisor and Programmer to develop individualized goals.
• Provide direct, person-centered support that teaches skills, promotes independence, and encourages participation in recreational and community activities.
• Use approved behavioral strategies to support individuals with challenging behaviors while respecting rights restrictions outlined by the interdisciplinary team and individual service plans.
• Complete accurate, timely, Iowa Code–compliant documentation in Setworks, recording required service details, interventions, and individual responses and submitting documentation daily.
• Provide hands-on support in home and community settings, including daily living assistance, transportation, mobility support, and safety monitoring.
• Respect individuals’ property and actively encourage their choices and independence.
• Administer and document medications according to the six rights.
• Follow agency policies and procedures, maintain reliable attendance including weekends and holidays, and complete required training.
• Communicate concerns and updates through appropriate channels.

Benefits

• Generous paid time off (PTO).
• 401(k) retirement plan.
• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance plans.
• Pre-paid legal services.
• Discounted Costco or Sam’s Club memberships.
• Leadership development and advancement opportunities.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Comprehensive employee benefits recognized with the 2026 Great Benefits Award from Mployer.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED