Day Hab / Community Hab Direct Support Professional - SIGN ON BONUS - Full-time

UNITED CEREBRAL PALSY ASSOCIATION OF THE NORTH COUNTRY•Town of Gouverneur, NY

About The Position

The Direct Support Professional partners with adults with developmental disabilities to build meaningful, person-centered lives shaped by their own choices and goals. Through collaboration, advocacy, and teaching, the role supports independence, daily living skills, and community connections while fostering dignity, respect, inclusion, and equitable, accessible, high-quality services. The position is full-time, 40 hours per week, primarily Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with some flexibility across hours and days based on organizational and individual needs. The role is non-exempt and eligible for overtime after 40 hours worked. Starting pay is $18.90 per hour, paid biweekly. Eligible new hires who begin employment between October 1, 2026, and November 18, 2026, may receive a $1,000 sign-on bonus: $500 in the December 18, 2026 paycheck and the remaining $500 after six months of employment, contingent on remaining actively employed and in good standing at each payment date. The Direct Support Professional reports to the Program Manager – Habilitation Services. Duties include supporting individuals’ health and safety, community participation, relationships, daily living and self-care skills, transportation, and person-centered goals; collaborating with colleagues and families; and maintaining accurate documentation and compliance. The work may include evenings and weekends and requires physical activity, transportation, and support during behavioral or safety concerns.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
Successful completion of the Agency orientation and training program.
New York State driver’s license and two years of driving experience.
Acceptable motor vehicle abstract meeting Agency insurability standards.
Reliable personal vehicle for business use.
Ability to frequently lift 25–50 pounds and transfer and support individuals, with or without help.
Physical strength to respond safely to a behavioral crisis.
Ability to operate personal and Agency vehicles.
Ability to walk and stand for extended periods.
Ability to tolerate some exposure to infectious diseases, hygiene issues, food, and other odors.
Ability to tolerate atmospheric conditions during regular outdoor seasonal activities.
Ability to operate mechanical devices used by individuals.

Responsibilities

Ensure individuals’ health, safety, and overall well-being through attentive care and supervision; promote self-advocacy and respond appropriately to medical, behavioral, or safety concerns.
Support individuals in accessing social, educational, vocational, and recreational opportunities in the community, and teach skills that promote independence and inclusion.
Encourage positive relationships with peers, family members, and community partners; model communication, cooperation, and conflict resolution.
Collaborate and communicate with team members, participate in staff meetings, share observations and recommendations, and contribute to person-centered approaches.
Teach and reinforce daily living and self-care skills, including personal hygiene, nutrition, budgeting, and home management.
Complete timely and thorough documentation of services, progress, and outcomes; prepare notes for billing and program reporting; maintain confidentiality and follow professional standards.
Transport individuals to activities, appointments, and community events safely, and help them develop travel skills.
Communicate with families, advocates, and other support networks about progress, concerns, and successes, and collaborate to advance person-centered goals.
Adjust supports and schedules in response to individual needs, including working evenings and weekends.
Perform other duties as assigned and contribute to a positive, respectful, mission-driven workplace.