Community Support Staff - CSS

Community Support Staff (CSS)

The Community Support Staff supports Gaston Residential Services' mission of empowering individuals with disabilities to work, participate, and thrive in their communities by providing high-quality supports that promote independence, skill development, and meaningful inclusion.

The Community Support Staff (CSS) provides direct support to individuals in competitive employment, volunteer roles, community integration activities, and recreation/leisure pursuits. The CSS assists individuals in developing, refining, and maintaining the skills needed to succeed in community settings while promoting independence, advocacy, and safety. This role requires strong communication skills, sound judgment, reliability, and the ability to work independently across multiple community locations.

Core Competencies

• Person-Centered Support
• Independence & Skill Development
• Community Integration & Advocacy
• Professional Communication
• Problem-Solving & Adaptability
• Documentation Accuracy
• Safety Awareness & Compliance

Essential Functions (including but not limited to):

Employment & Volunteer Support

• Provide job coaching and on-the-job support to help individuals maintain competitive employment.
• Ensure work tasks meet employer standards for accuracy, quality, and timeliness.
• Teach new work skills, refine existing skills, and support development of natural workplace supports.
• Assist individuals in following employer policies, workplace expectations, and safety guidelines.
• Identify and develop adaptive equipment or tools needed for job success.

Community Integration & Recreation Support

• Assist individuals in accessing community activities, volunteer opportunities, and recreation/leisure programs.
• Provide social interaction support and encourage independence in community settings.
• Ensure all community site rules and expectations are followed.

Advocacy & Person-Centered Support

• Promote self-advocacy and support individuals in expressing personal goals, preferences, and needs.
• Build a trusting, professional relationship with each individual.
• Identify opportunities for increased independence and skill improvement.
• Ensure goals and supports align with the individual's service plan.

Communication & Collaboration

• Maintain open communication with employers, CMG staff, VR counselors, caregivers, case managers, and other stakeholders.
• Communicate daily updates and relevant changes to the CMG team.
• Facilitate accurate and professional interactions with coworkers, supervisors, and community partners.

Documentation & Scheduling

• Complete daily documentation in accordance with funding source requirements.
• Submit accurate timecards as required.
• Prepare weekly schedules that include all work sites, community activities, meetings, and travel time.

Transportation & Resource Support

• Assist individuals in securing transportation as needed, which may include coordinating public or specialized transportation.
• Provide supportive counseling related to workplace, social, or personal challenges.

Performance Indicators

• Accuracy and timeliness of daily documentation.
• Quality of on-site job coaching and community integration support.
• Employer and community partner satisfaction.
• Progress toward individual goals and independence.
• Effective communication with the CMG team and external partners.
• Compliance with safety, training, and program policies.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; 4-year degree preferred.
• Minimum 6 months experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities or related needs.
• Demonstrated interpersonal skills, discretion, and sound judgment.
• Ability to work independently and manage time effectively.
• Basic computer skills with willingness to improve proficiency.
• Must maintain confidentiality and comply with HIPAA, state privacy laws, and GRS data protection policies.
• Valid driver's license and insurable driving record preferred (may be required based on individual support needs).

Safety and Mandated Reporting

• Follows all GRS safety procedures, employer site safety rules, and emergency protocols.
• Complies with mandated reporting laws related to suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation.
• Ensures immediate reporting of hazards, incidents, or safety concerns.

Confidentiality

Maintains the confidentiality of all individuals served and complies with HIPAA, state privacy regulations, funding source requirements, and GRS confidentiality policies.

Driving and Transportation Requirements

• Must maintain a valid driver's license and an insurable driving record in…