Direct Support Professional

Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of others? Join our team as a Direct Support Professional and play a vital role in empowering individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) to live fulfilling, independent lives. We are looking for compassionate, dedicated individuals who are committed to helping others achieve their goals, build meaningful connections, and thrive in their communities. If you’re ready to create a positive impact and be part of a supportive, purpose-driven team, this opportunity is for you!

HOURS AVAILABLE:

Full-time, 2nd shift (1:00pm - 9:00pm)

Saturdays, 1st shift (9:00am - 5:00pm)

*Looking to hire multiple candidates*

POSITION SUMMARY:

The UCP In-Home Support (IHS) Department aims to enhance the quality of life of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) by promoting independence, inclusion, and dignity. This program serves individuals with diverse needs including those requiring assistance with skill development, health and safety, and community integration. Participants may range from those with mild IDD to co-occurring medical, behavioral, or mental health challenges. The program emphasizes maintaining respectful relationships and adhering to compliance and ethical standards. By delivering tailored support and empowering individuals to make choices about their lives, UCP's IHS program promotes autonomy, inclusion, and personal growth in a safe and supportive environment.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Individual Care: Provide direct support per written program guidelines, ensuring health and safety in compliance with UCP policies.
• Documentation: Maintain accurate daily records, programmatic files, and residential records while ensuring confidentiality of individuals’ protected health information.
• Transportation & Advocacy: Using your personal vehicle, transport individuals to appointments and activities, fostering independence and personal growth (mileage reimbursement at the federal rate).
• Financial Assistance: Assist individuals with finances per their Individual Plan.
• Apartment Maintenance: Support and teach individuals to maintain clean, sanitary living spaces.
• Meal Preparation: Plan, prepare, and teach individuals to make meals following dietary guidelines while modeling safe food handling.
• Environment Respect: Maintain cleanliness of shared environments, including vehicles, offices, and homes.
• Professional Development: Attend training, staff meetings, and adhere to policies, demonstrating professionalism and a positive attitude.
• Other Duties: Perform tasks to meet Individual Plans and program goals as needed.

KEY BENEFITS

• Ongoing training provided!
• Competitive pay, with pay increases annually
• Discounted Health/Dental/Vision Insurance
• Health Savings Account Large Employer Contribution
• Flexible Spending Account
• Life & Disability Insurance
• 403(b) Retirement Match Program & Profit Sharing
• Generous PTO policy; accrues immediately upon hire
• Tuition Discounts at select colleges
• 11 Paid Holidays
• Free Employee Assistance Program

REQUIREMENTS, SKILLS, ABILITIES & KNOWLEDGE

• Current CPR, First Aid, and PMT Certification (this can be provided by UCP)
• Current Driver's License, auto insurance; and a clean driving record
• Skill and compassion working with and teaching individuals with disabilities
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills
• Demonstrated technology competency

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to bend, squat, kneel, lift, twist, push and pull to complete assigned tasks.
• Ability to walk and stand for long periods.
• Ability to drive for individual transportation to and from home or on community outings.

WORK SETTING AND CONDITIONS

This position is primarily based in a home or community-based setting. Responsibilities occasionally may require an adjusted work schedule in order to meet the individual’s availability and needs.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• High School Diploma or equivalent (required)
• Six months to two years related experience (preferred)

The statements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. From time to time other duties may be assigned.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $19.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Mileage reimbursement
• Paid orientation
• Paid sick time
• Paid time off
• Paid training
• Professional development assistance
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Day shift
• Evening shift

Application Question(s):

• Are you willing to use your own vehicle to transport program participants around the local community? (UCP provides mileage reimbursement at the federal rate).
• Please describe what hours you are available to work/interested in working.

Experience:

• Working with people with disabilities: 1 year (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Groton, CT 06340 (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $19