Direct Support Professional

Devereux•Clayton, NJ

21d

About The Position

At Devereux New Jersey, Direct Support Professionals help adults with autism and developmental disabilities build independence, develop everyday life skills, and participate in their communities. DSPs may work in residential group homes or vocational day programs as part of a collaborative team with management, experienced DSPs, and clinical staff. The role includes training, ongoing supervision, and support, with opportunities for career development and advancement. The position focuses on the safety, health, and well-being of individuals in care. DSPs coach and assist individuals with daily living skills, support programs tailored to their social, emotional, physical, and personal needs, and help them take part in community activities. They also build productive relationships with family members and safely transport individuals to appointments, day programs, and scheduled activities. The organization offers paid new-hire orientation, a starting salary of $20.42 with increases based on education and experience, and benefits for eligible full-time employees. Devereux is a nonprofit behavioral healthcare organization whose mission is to unlock and nurture human potential for people living with emotional, behavioral, or cognitive differences. It emphasizes servant leadership, inclusion, and a supportive, mission-driven workplace.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
Valid, non-provisional driver's license.
At least 18 years of age.
Availability to attend a two-week paid new-hire orientation that is hybrid and in person.
Sound judgment, ability to respond calmly and make thoughtful decisions, and willingness to ask for support when needed.
Empathy, reliability, and a team-oriented approach to supporting adults with autism and developmental disabilities.

Responsibilities

Help ensure the safety, health, and well-being of individuals in care.
Coach and assist individuals in developing daily living skills, including food preparation, cooking, cleaning, and shopping.
Support the planning, implementation, and documentation of programs addressing each individual's social, emotional, physical, and personal needs.
Plan and participate in community-based employment, volunteer opportunities, day programs, and outings that promote involvement and independence.
Build positive, productive relationships with individuals’ family members.
Safely transport individuals to doctor appointments, day programs, and scheduled community activities.

Benefits

Up to 24 days of paid time off during the first year, plus 64 hours of sick time; time off begins accruing on the first day.
Affordable healthcare coverage, with single coverage plans starting at $87 per pay period; eligible employees can begin benefits after 30 days.
Medical coverage, including telemedicine, dental, prescription drug, preventative care, and mental health services.
Student loan reimbursement or debt assistance through ASCEND.
Tuition reimbursement and continuing education assistance.
403(b) retirement plan with matching benefit.
Voluntary or employee-paid supplemental life and accident coverage.
Employee assistance and work-life balance program.
Starting salary of $20.42, with increases based on education and experience.
Opportunities for advancement and ongoing support.