Direct Support Professional
About The Position
Damar is seeking Direct Support Professionals to provide care and support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities or autism. The role is available on the Children’s Residential campus at 6067 Decatur Boulevard in Indianapolis or in adult group homes in the community. Applicants may have prior experience, but experience is not required; Damar provides training in verbal intervention and physical management techniques. The work includes supervising and caring for clients, managing crises, promoting appropriate social behavior, and helping clients reach their potential. Schedules include day, night, and weekend shifts, with rotating weekends for day and night shifts. The listed weekend schedule is Saturday and Sunday, with an optional weekday shift. Preferred shifts may not be available when applying. The position requires regular, acceptable attendance and the ability to perform essential functions satisfactorily, with or without reasonable accommodation. Damar describes its culture as mission-driven and purpose-driven, and states that it is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to an accessible and inclusive application experience.
Requirements
- Applicants must be at least 21 to work in the Children’s Residential program; other Direct Support Professional roles are available for applicants aged 18–20.
- Formal proof of a high school diploma or GED is required.
- For positions requiring driving, a valid Indiana driver’s license and a driving record that meets the eligibility requirements of Damar’s insurance carrier are required.
- Must have no felony convictions, substantiated charges of neglect, or other disqualifying criminal convictions.
- Must successfully complete a pre-employment drug screen and physical.
- Must favorably meet and maintain Damar’s background screening.
- Must be able to perform the essential functions, including standing or sitting for prolonged periods; occasionally stooping, bending, kneeling, crouching, reaching, and twisting; lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling up to 50 pounds; operating office equipment including a computer keyboard; traveling to other locations; and communicating effectively.
- Must be able to respond appropriately in an environment where individuals may display aggressive, self-injurious, sexually maladaptive, elopement, or other unpredictable behaviors.
- Regular and acceptable attendance is an essential function.
Nice To Haves
- Prior experience as a Direct Support Professional or in a related role is welcome but not required.
Responsibilities
- Supervise and care for clients.
- Respond to and manage crisis situations effectively.
- Implement behavior management plans to reduce maladaptive behaviors.
- Promote and assist with developing clients’ daily living, self-help, and social skills.
- Help maintain a safe and healthy environment.
- Conduct and supervise recreational and life-enrichment activities.
- Complete required documentation daily in a professional manner.
- Recognize and respond appropriately to client behaviors, staff instructions, safety concerns, and emergencies.
Benefits
- Starting pay of $15.25 per hour; pay accounts for experience and education.
- Damar Advantage discounts at Damar Health Services and Damar Pharmacy.
- Comprehensive training in verbal intervention and physical management techniques.
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance options.
- Up to $3,000 per year in tuition assistance.
- 401(k) plan participation.
- Damar-provided life insurance and additional voluntary options.
- Short-term and long-term disability insurance options.
- Paid holidays.
- Paid time off (PTO).
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
