Direct Support Professional - (Full Time, Weekdays) - Watertown, CT

Oak Hill/Gilead • Watertown, CT

7d • Onsite

About The Position

Oak Hill is seeking a compassionate, dependable, and motivated Direct Support Professional (DSP) to provide person-centered support to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in a residential setting. The role helps individuals build independence, dignity, and meaningful connections with their communities. Candidates with relevant experience and those new to the field are welcome; Oak Hill provides paid training and support.

This is a 40-hour-per-week position with a Monday-through-Friday schedule from 3:00 PM to 11:00 PM in Watertown, Connecticut. Compensation is $20.39 per hour, based on assigned shift. The role is union-represented and overtime eligible. Continuity of care may occasionally require staying beyond the scheduled shift until coverage is in place.

The DSP assists with daily living and personal care, health and wellness, medication administration, community participation, meals, mobility, documentation, emergency response, and behavioral support. The position also requires coordination with colleagues, supervisors, individuals served, families, and other stakeholders, as well as participation in meetings, training, and professional development.

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 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 in agency vehicles to appointments, recreational activities, community events, and other destinations.
• 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, 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 (EHR).
• 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 the 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