Direct Support Professional (Substitute) - Harwinton, CT

Oak Hill/Gilead • Harwinton, CT

4d • Onsite

About The Position

Oak Hill is seeking compassionate, dependable, and motivated Direct Support Professionals to provide person-centered support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in a residential setting. The role helps people live with greater independence, dignity, health, and connection to their communities. Substitutes work on an as-needed, per-diem basis and must work at least 15 hours per month. Compensation is $20.39 per hour, with differentials available based on assigned shift. This is a union position and is overtime eligible.

The DSP supports daily living, health and wellness, community inclusion, nutrition, mobility, and personal goals. The role includes personal care, medication administration in accordance with training and nursing directives, transportation in agency vehicles, meal preparation, assistance with transfers, accurate electronic documentation, and adherence to applicable Oak Hill and regulatory requirements. DSPs respond to emergencies and behavioral needs using established procedures and trained techniques, and collaborate with colleagues, supervisors, individuals served, families, and other stakeholders.

Oak Hill provides paid training and support, including required certifications. Employees may have career mobility opportunities after six months. The organization describes itself as Connecticut's largest private provider of services for people with disabilities and has been empowering people with disabilities for more than 130 years.

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 occasional need to stay 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 accurate 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 support during meals as needed.
• Assist with mobility and transfers using approved techniques and adaptive equipment, including lift systems, ramps, and wheelchair securement devices as required.
• 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, and document related activities.
• Apply 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.
• 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