Direct Support Professional
Listed on 2026-07-20
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Healthcare
Caregiver, Direct Support Professional/ Direct Care, Home Care
Location: Canterbury
Direct Support Professional (014-03)
Whole Life is seeking compassionate and dedicated Direct Support Professionals to join our team. DSPs provide individualized person-centered care to individuals with developmental, intellectual, and/or physical disabilities. This role focuses on enhancing quality of life by supporting activities of daily living (ADLs), promoting independence, and encouraging community integration. The Direct Support Professional collaborates with managers, providers, and family members to implement personalized care plans while assisting individuals in achieving personal goals.
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
- Maintain 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
Required:
- MUST provide proof of a High School diploma, High School Transcripts, GED or equivalent
- MUST provide proof of a valid driver’s license and a social security card, birth certificate, or passport
- Background check, DSS Abuse Registry Check, and a safe driving record required; post-hire, a "Fit for Duty" physical and tuberculosis test within 30 days of hire
- Ability to stand, move, twist, bend, kneel, reach, lift, and walk for the majority of the shift; some positions may require lifting up to 100 lbs unassisted
Preferred:
- 1+ year of experience in group homes, assisted living, or direct support
- First Aid/CPR certification (training available)
- Medication Administration Certification (training available)
- Experience with developmental disabilities, autism, TBI, Alzheimer s, dementia, or memory care
- Strong observation, communication, and documentation skills
- Positions may require varying degrees of physical labor
For nearly 40 years, Whole Life has served as a non-profit resource and support network for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities across Connecticut. With 31 homes and programs statewide, our mission remains rooted in person-centered care, empowering individuals to build the supports they need to live meaningful lives.
If you’re seeking meaningful, dynamic work that’s challenging in a positive 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 day.
BenefitsDental 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. DSPs receive CPR and PMT certifications through Whole Life upon orientation. Within 6 months of hire, employees must obtain Medication Administration Certification through DSS, sponsored by Whole Life. All employees are subject to a 6-month probationary period with a starting salary; probation completion includes a salary increase and more flexibility for sick time, PTO, leave requests, transfers, etc.
Join our team and build a meaningful career—apply today!
Weekly hours: 36
Weekly schedule:
- Friday – OFF
- Saturday – OFF
- Sunday – 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Monday – 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Tuesday – 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Wednesday – 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Thursday – OFF
Posting
-03
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