Direct Support Professional (Substitute) - Collinsville, CT

Oak Hill • Canton, CT

3d • Onsite

About The Position

Oak Hill is hiring a substitute Direct Support Professional in Collinsville, Connecticut. Substitute DSPs work on a per-diem, as-needed basis and are required to work at least 15 hours per month. The role supports individuals with disabilities in living healthy, meaningful, and fulfilling lives, while promoting independence, inclusion, health, and dignity. Compensation is $20.39 per hour, with differentials available based on assigned shift. This is a union position and is overtime eligible.

The DSP assists with personal care and daily living activities according to individual preferences and support plans; supports health and wellness, including medication administration and recordkeeping as trained and authorized; and promotes community participation, including transportation in agency vehicles. The role also includes meal preparation and mealtime support, mobility and transfer assistance, accurate electronic health record documentation, following safety and regulatory requirements, responding to emergencies and behavioral needs, and communicating with colleagues, supervisors, individuals served, families, and other stakeholders.

Oak Hill provides paid training and certifications, including DDS Medication Certification within 90 days of hire. The organization offers career mobility opportunities after six months and describes its mission as empowering people with disabilities to live, learn, work, and thrive.

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.
• Substitute DSPs must work a minimum of 15 hours per month.

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.
• No prior experience is required; paid training and support are provided.

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 mealtime support as needed.
• Assist with mobility and transfers using approved techniques, 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.
• 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.
• Use 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

• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED