Direct Support Professional (Substitute) - Watertown, CT

Oak Hill • Watertown, CT

4d • Onsite

About The Position

Oak Hill is hiring a substitute Direct Support Professional in Watertown, Connecticut. Substitutes work on a per-diem, as-needed basis and are required to work at least 15 hours per month. Compensation is $20.39 per hour, with shift-based differentials available. This is a union position and is overtime eligible.

The Direct Support Professional supports people with disabilities in living healthy, meaningful, and fulfilling lives. The role includes assistance with daily living, personal care, health and wellness, medication administration, community participation, meals, mobility, documentation, emergency response, behavioral support, and communication with colleagues, families, and other stakeholders. Staff follow individual preferences and support plans, established procedures, and applicable Oak Hill, DDS, DPH, HIPAA, and regulatory requirements.

Oak Hill provides paid training and support, including required certifications. The organization has more than 130 years of experience supporting people with disabilities and describes its culture as mission-driven and committed to independence, inclusion, health, and dignity.

Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• High school diploma or GED.
• Valid driver's license and ability to transport individuals in 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.
• Commitment to maintaining a safe, healthy, and professional work environment in accordance with Oak Hill policies.
• Commitment to continuity of care, including occasionally staying beyond a scheduled shift until coverage is in place.

Nice To Haves

• Previous experience as a Direct Support Professional, Certified Nursing Assistant, caregiver, home health aide, behavioral health technician, or in a related human services role.
• Experience supporting individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities.

Responsibilities

• Assist with personal care, grooming, bathing, dressing, hygiene, and continence care according to individual preferences and support plans.
• Encourage independence and skill development.
• Monitor and document health information, including vital signs when required.
• Administer medications and maintain medication records in accordance with training, certification requirements, and nursing directives.
• Follow individualized health care plans and support individuals' overall well-being.
• Transport individuals in agency vehicles to appointments, recreational activities, community events, and other destinations.
• Encourage participation in community life, social opportunities, and personal interests.
• Prepare meals and snacks according to menus, dietary requirements, and personal preferences, and provide mealtime support as needed.
• Assist with mobility and transfers using approved techniques and required adaptive equipment, lift systems, ramps, and wheelchair securement devices.
• Document daily activities, health information, progress notes, incidents, and medication administration in the electronic health record.
• Follow Oak Hill, DDS, DPH, HIPAA, and other applicable regulatory requirements.
• Follow emergency procedures and safety protocols.
• Implement behavioral support strategies, document related activities, and use trained intervention techniques.
• Administer First Aid and CPR when required.
• Communicate effectively with colleagues, supervisors, individuals served, family members, and other stakeholders.
• Participate in required meetings, trainings, and ongoing professional development.
• Occasionally stay beyond a scheduled shift until coverage is in place.

Benefits

• Paid training and certifications, including DDS Medication Certification within 90 days of hire.
• Career mobility opportunities after six months, including transfers and additional shift opportunities.
• Paid time off, including vacation, sick time, personal days, and holidays.
• 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 career development opportunities.
• Employee recognition and appreciation programs.

What This Job Offers

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