Direct Support Professional - Substitute/Per-Diem

Oak Hill/Gilead • West Hartford, CT

3d • Onsite

About The Position

Oak Hill is seeking a compassionate, dependable, and motivated Direct Support Professional to provide individualized support to adults in a residential setting. The role is part of a collaborative team and contributes to helping individuals live healthier, more independent, and fulfilling lives. Oak Hill’s Community Programs support choice, dignity, inclusion, independence, relationships, and meaningful participation in community life.

This is a substitute, per-diem position in West Hartford, Connecticut, with no regular schedule assignment. Substitutes work on an as-needed basis to maintain care standards when core staff are unavailable and must accept and work a minimum of 15 hours per month to maintain active employment. The base rate is $20.39 per hour, with shift differentials available for specific schedules. The position is union, non-exempt, and overtime eligible. The posting states that only male applicants can be considered at this time due to the specific needs of individuals in the program.

Oak Hill provides paid training and ongoing support, including training and certifications such as DDS Medication Certification. The organization describes its mission as empowering people with disabilities to live, learn, work, and thrive, and offers employees opportunities for career mobility and professional development.

Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• High school diploma or GED.
• Valid driver's license and ability to transport individuals using agency vehicles.
• Ability to successfully complete required background checks, fingerprinting, and pre-employment health screenings.
• Ability to complete required training programs and maintain necessary certifications.
• Ability to perform the physical requirements of the role, including assisting with mobility and transfers when needed.
• Commitment to maintaining a safe, healthy, and professional work environment.
• Commitment to continuity of care, including occasional schedule flexibility when needed.
• Must accept and work a minimum of 15 hours per month to maintain active employment.
• The posting states that only male applicants can be considered at this time due to the specific needs of individuals in the program.

Nice To Haves

• Previous experience as a Direct Support Professional (DSP).
• Experience as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), caregiver, home health aide, behavioral health technician, or similar human services professional.
• Experience supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
• Medication Administration Certification, CPR, or First Aid certifications.
• Compassion, patience, empathy, respect, and a genuine desire to help others succeed.
• Ability to build meaningful relationships and understand and support individuals’ goals.
• Flexibility, adaptability, and a calm, solutions-focused approach to problem-solving.
• Teamwork, communication, and shared accountability.
• Motivation to do meaningful work and make a positive difference in people's lives.

Responsibilities

• Assist individuals with personal care, grooming, bathing, dressing, hygiene, and continence care according to their needs and preferences.
• Encourage independence and skill development.
• Support meal planning, preparation, dining, and nutritional needs.
• Assist with household activities and maintain a safe, clean, welcoming home environment.
• Administer medications and maintain accurate medication records in accordance with training requirements and nursing directives.
• Monitor health-related concerns and communicate changes appropriately.
• Follow individualized healthcare plans and support overall wellness.
• Help schedule and attend medical and healthcare appointments.
• Transport individuals to appointments, recreational activities, employment opportunities, and community events using agency vehicles.
• Support participation in community activities, social opportunities, and personal interests; encourage relationship-building, self-advocacy, and community involvement.
• Assist with mobility and transfers using approved techniques and adaptive equipment when necessary.
• Implement behavioral support strategies and individualized support plans; use trained intervention techniques when appropriate.
• Respond to emergencies, health-related incidents, and crisis situations according to agency procedures.
• Document daily activities, health information, progress notes, incidents, and medication administration accurately in the electronic health record.
• Comply with Oak Hill policies and applicable DDS, DPH, HIPAA, OSHA, and regulatory requirements; maintain confidentiality and protect individual rights.
• Communicate and collaborate with coworkers, supervisors, family members, healthcare providers, and other stakeholders.
• Participate in team meetings, required trainings, and professional development activities, and support continuity of care across shifts and teams.

Benefits

• Paid training and certifications, including DDS Medication Certification.
• Career mobility opportunities after six months, including transfers and advancement opportunities.
• Paid time off, including vacation, sick, personal, and holiday time.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 403(b) Retirement Plan with an annual Oak Hill contribution equal to 9.5% of eligible gross earnings, regardless of employee contribution.
• Employer-paid long-term disability insurance.
• Life insurance options, including employer-paid coverage.
• Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities.
• Employee recognition and appreciation programs.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED