Direct Support Professional - Full-Time, Evenings

Oak Hill/Gilead • West Hartford, CT

3d • Onsite

About The Position

Oak Hill is seeking a compassionate, dependable, and motivated Direct Support Professional (DSP) to provide person-centered support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in a residential setting. The role supports individuals in building independence, dignity, relationships, and connection to their communities. The position is based in West Hartford, Connecticut, and is scheduled Tuesday through Saturday, 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM, for 35 hours per week. Compensation is $20.39 per hour, with differential pay available for specific schedules. This is a union, non-exempt, overtime-eligible position. Due to the specific needs of individuals in the program, only male applicants will be considered at this time.

The DSP assists with daily living and personal care, health and wellness, nutrition, mobility, community participation, documentation, and behavioral and emergency support. Staff work with individuals according to their preferences, individualized support and health care plans, training, and nursing directives. The position also requires effective coordination with colleagues, supervisors, families, and other stakeholders, as well as participation in required meetings and training.

Oak Hill provides paid training and support, including DDS Medication Certification within 90 days of hire. The organization describes opportunities for career mobility after six months and offers a mission-driven culture focused on independence, inclusion, health, and dignity.

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.
• Compassion, patience, empathy, respect, and a genuine desire to help individuals achieve their goals.
• Ability to adapt to changing situations and approach challenges with a solutions-focused mindset.

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 as needed, based on individual preferences and support plans.
• Encourage individuals' independence and skill development.
• Monitor and document health-related 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 individuals' 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 mealtime support 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 applicable Oak Hill, DDS, DPH, HIPAA, and regulatory requirements.
• Follow established 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, training, and ongoing professional development.
• Support 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.
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick time, personal days, and holidays.
• Affordable 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