Direct Support Professional - Waterbury, CT

Oak Hill/Gilead • Waterbury, CT

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Oak Hill is seeking a compassionate, dependable, and motivated Direct Support Professional (DSP) to provide person-centered support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in a residential setting. The role helps individuals build independence, dignity, and connection to their communities. The position is based in Waterbury, Connecticut, with 20 weekly hours scheduled Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Compensation is $20.39 per hour, with differential pay available for specific schedules. This is a union, non-exempt position that is overtime eligible.

The DSP supports daily living, health and wellness, community participation, nutrition, mobility, and personal development according to each individual’s preferences and support plans. The role includes personal care, medication administration as authorized and trained, transportation in agency vehicles, meal preparation, mobility assistance, and accurate documentation in the electronic health record. DSPs follow applicable Oak Hill, DDS, DPH, HIPAA, and regulatory requirements; respond to emergencies; use behavioral support strategies; and work collaboratively with colleagues, supervisors, individuals served, families, and other stakeholders.

The role requires participation in training, meetings, and ongoing professional development. Employees must maintain continuity of care, which may occasionally require staying beyond a scheduled shift until coverage is in place. Paid training and support are available, including DDS Medication Certification within 90 days of hire. Applicants with prior DSP, CNA, caregiving, home health, behavioral health, or related experience are preferred, but experience is not required.

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 (DSP), Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), 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-related 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 overall well-being.
• Transport individuals to appointments, recreational activities, community events, and other destinations using agency vehicles.
• 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 individuals 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 accurately 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 and document related activities.
• Use trained intervention techniques and administer First Aid/CPR when required.
• Communicate effectively with colleagues, supervisors, individuals served, family members, and other stakeholders.
• Participate in required meetings, trainings, and ongoing professional development.
• Maintain continuity of care, including occasionally staying 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.
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick time, personal days, and holidays.
• Affordable 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