Direct Support Professional - Southington, CT

Oak Hill • Southington, CT

2d • Onsite

About The Position

Oak Hill is hiring a Direct Support Professional in Southington, Connecticut. This is a 40-hour-per-week, non-exempt union position, scheduled Monday through Friday from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. The base rate is $20.39 per hour, with differential pay available for specific schedules. The role supports people with disabilities in daily living, health and wellness, community participation, nutrition, mobility, and personal goals while maintaining their safety, dignity, and independence.

The Direct Support Professional provides personal care and continence support, monitors and documents health information, administers medications in accordance with training and nursing directives, and follows individualized care plans. The position also involves transporting individuals in agency vehicles, preparing meals, assisting with mobility and transfers using approved equipment and techniques, maintaining accurate electronic records, and following agency and regulatory requirements.

The role responds to emergencies and behavioral needs by following safety procedures, implementing behavioral support strategies, and using trained intervention techniques and First Aid/CPR when needed. Staff communicate with colleagues, supervisors, individuals served, families, and other stakeholders, and participate in required meetings, training, and professional development. Occasional continuation beyond a scheduled shift may be needed until coverage is in place.

Oak Hill provides paid training and support, including DDS Medication Certification within 90 days of hire. The organization offers career mobility opportunities after six months and describes its work as advancing independence, inclusion, health, and dignity for people with disabilities.

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 needs 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 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 applicable Oak Hill, DDS, DPH, HIPAA, and 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 with colleagues, supervisors, individuals served, family members, and other stakeholders.
• Participate in required meetings, training, 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: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED