Direct Support Professional (650-05)

Being a Direct Support Professional

Whole Life is seeking compassionate and dedicated Direct Support Professionals to join our team! DSP's are a vital component in providing comprehensive and individualized person-centered care to individuals with developmental, intellectual, and/or physical disabilities. This rewarding position focuses on enhancing the quality of life for our clients by supporting their activities of daily living (ADL's), promoting independence, and encouraging community integration. We accompany them to their jobs, assist in grocery shopping and cooking, ensure medications are taken and Care Plans are followed, and encourage visits with friends and family. The role requires building trusting relationships with clients and their families, ensuring their safety, dignity, and well-being at all times. The Direct Support Professional collaborates closely with managers, providers and family members to effectively and consistently implement personalized care plans while contributing to client empowerment by assisting in the achievement of personal goals, leading to enriching and fulfilling lives.

 Key Responsibilities

• Assist with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs): bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and meal preparation
• Administer medications, monitor vital signs, and support medical appointments
• Ensure a clean, safe living environment through light housekeeping and laundry
• Engage clients in social activities, community outings, and choice-making to promote independence
• Use mobility equipment (e.g., Hoyer lifts) with proper techniques
• Document daily activities, observations, and incidents accurately.
• Maintain confidentiality per HIPAA regulations.
• Implement individualized care plans

Qualifications & Skills

Required:

• MUST be able to PROVIDE PROOF a High School diploma, High School Transcripts, GED or equivalent.
• MUST be able to PROVIDE PROOF a valid driver's license and a social security card, birth certificate, or passport.
• All employees must pass a Background Check, DSS Abuse Registry Check, have a safe driving record. Post-hire, employees must pass a "Fit for Duty" physical and tuberculosis test within 30 days of hire.
• Must be able to stand, move, twist, bend, kneel, reach, lift, and walk for the majority of your shift. Some positions require occasionally lifting up to 100lbs unassisted.

Preferred:

• 1+ year experience in group homes, assisted living, or direct support
• First Aid/CPR certification (willing to train)
• Medication Administration Certification (wiling to train)
• Experience with developmental disabilities, autism, TBI, Alzheimer's, dementia, or memory care
• Strong observation, communication, and documentation skills
• Positions require varying degrees of physical labor

About Whole Life

For nearly 40 years, Whole Life has proudly served as a non-profit resource, support network, and lifeline for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities across Connecticut. Today, with 31 homes and programs statewide, our mission remains rooted in person-centered care—empowering each individual to build the supports they need to live a meaningful, fulfilling life where their hopes and dreams are truly within reach.

If you’re looking for work that is meaningful, dynamic, and a little bit challenging in the best way, you might be exactly who we’re looking for. Join us and train to become a Whole Life Direct Support Professional—make a difference every single day.

Benefits

Dental insurance* | Health insurance* | Paid orientation | Paid time off* | Paid training | 401K | Healthcare Pension

* - Depends on Employment Classification and ACA Eligibility

Notes: All Whole Life DSP Positions are covered by a Healthcare Union. All DSP Positions will receive CPR and PMT certifications through Whole Life upon attendance of Orientation. Within 6 months of hire, all employees are required to have obtained their Medication Administration Certification through DSS, sponsored by Whole Life. All Whole Life Employees are subject to a 6-month probationary period, including a probationary starting salary. The completion of probation comes with a salary increase and more flexibility of use regarding Sick time, PTO, leave requests, transfers, etc.

Join our team and build a meaningful career, making a difference! Apply today!