Support Coach- Direct Support Professional
About The Position
Support Coach ( Direct Support Professional – DSP) Horizons is hiring Support Coaches to provide supports to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. For over 40 years, Horizons has fostered dignity, connection, and inclusion across Connecticut. As a Support Coach, you’ll build real relationships while empowering individuals to achieve their personal and professional goals. What You’ll Do: Provide direct supports, teaching and modeling. Support individuals in working toward their personal goals as identified in their Individual Service Plan (ISP). Monitor performance and help individuals meet job or home responsibilities successfully each day. Administer medications according to physician’s orders and DDS guidelines. Communicate clearly and respectfully, always centering the individual’s voice and privacy. Encourage independence while remaining responsive and compassionate during moments of challenge. Participate in training, complete documentation thoughtfully, and keep your manager informed of relevant developments. Why This Role Matters: Your guidance helps build confidence, skills, and purpose. Whether you're supporting someone through a new task or celebrating their on-the-job success, your work has a lasting impact—on individuals, families, and the greater community. What You’ll Receive: Starting Pay: $19.25-$21.75 Part-Time Benefits: 401(k) with a 4% employer match Vision, Pet, and Voluntary Life Insurance Full-Time Benefits: All of the above, plus: Health and Dental Insurance Short-Term Disability and Life Insurance What You’ll Need: Be 21 years or older High school diploma or equivalent Valid Connecticut driver’s license, reliable transportation, and an acceptable driving record At least 2 years of relevant experience (or approved equivalent) Ability to pass a criminal background and license check Physical ability to lift 50 pounds, assist with mobility, and respond to emergencies, including CPR/First Aid Why Horizons? Horizons is a deeply rooted, mission-driven nonprofit committed to inclusion, creativity, and person-centered support. From our beginnings as a summer camp to becoming a year-round provider of Supported Employment, Living, and Educational Services, we support nearly 1,700 individuals annually—with heart and high expectations. We believe in seeing possibility—where others might not—and in helping people achieve more than they thought possible. 🌐 Learn more at www.horizonsct.org A Note to Potential Applicants: We know the strongest teams are built on diversity—of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. Studies show that people from underrepresented groups often hesitate to apply unless they meet every qualification. If this role excites you, we encourage you to apply—even if you don’t check every single box. Your cover letter is a great place to share what draws you to this work and what you hope to contribute to the Horizons community. We’d love to hear from you.
Requirements
- Be 21 years or older
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Valid Connecticut driver’s license, reliable transportation, and an acceptable driving record
- At least 2 years of relevant experience (or approved equivalent)
- Ability to pass a criminal background and license check
- Physical ability to lift 50 pounds, assist with mobility, and respond to emergencies, including CPR/First Aid
Responsibilities
- Provide direct supports, teaching and modeling.
- Support individuals in working toward their personal goals as identified in their Individual Service Plan (ISP).
- Monitor performance and help individuals meet job or home responsibilities successfully each day.
- Administer medications according to physician’s orders and DDS guidelines.
- Communicate clearly and respectfully, always centering the individual’s voice and privacy.
- Encourage independence while remaining responsive and compassionate during moments of challenge.
- Participate in training, complete documentation thoughtfully, and keep your manager informed of relevant developments.
Benefits
- 401(k) with a 4% employer match
- Vision Insurance
- Pet Insurance
- Voluntary Life Insurance
- Health Insurance
- Dental Insurance
- Short-Term Disability Insurance
- Life Insurance
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
