Direct Support Staff

Direct Support Staff – Advocates

Join to apply for the Direct Support Staff role ocates is seeking enthusiastic, motivated team players to provide valuable care to individuals in a residential setting!

• Starting rate: $18.50/hour*

Advocates promotes a healthy work‑life balance and offers many generous perks of employment and room for advancement. We are a strong‑knit community that values the ideas and contributions from our staff.

The Direct Support Staff position is an entry‑level role where you can support individuals with developmental disabilities and start your career in human services. You will provide ongoing support, guidance, and role modeling directly to individuals served in a residential setting. Responsibilities include assisting residents with activities of daily living such as cooking, personal hygiene, and dressing; administering and managing medication;

following Individual Support Plans (ISPs); transporting residents to appointments when needed; and completing shift notes. Direct Support staff ensure the program is a welcoming, comfortable, and safe environment. You will work closely with parents and/or guardians to collaborate on how to best support each individual. You will also support residents with community integration by doing things such as group activities, taking trips to events, and volunteering.

Blended Shift

• Sat 3p‑11p
• Sun 9a‑3p
• Mon 3p‑11p

• Support individuals in daily activities inside their home and in the community by promoting self‑advocacy, decision‑making, and empowerment. Provide guidance and role modeling as appropriate.
• Assist individuals with planning and implementation of daily activity schedules and routines.
• Assist individuals to identify and develop person‑centered goals and plans to address any concerns, wants, or needs.
• Encourage active participation in community events and other integrated activities.
• Assist individuals with home maintenance and perform cleaning responsibilities.
• Document shift notes summarizing any applicable occurrences, observations, concerns or progress.

• High school diploma or equivalent degree. Experience working with the population preferred.
• Excellent interpersonal, judgment and coaching skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to utilize basic computer applications.
• Desire to thrive in a fast‑paced, client‑centered, team‑oriented environment.
• Must hold a valid driver's license, have access to an operational and insured vehicle and be willing to use it to transport clients.
• Strongly prefer a candidate that will have a demonstrated understanding of and competence in serving culturally diverse populations.

High School Diploma/GED

Entry level

Part‑time

Other

Non‑profit Organizations

Advocates is committed to cultivating a diverse and welcoming community where everyone feels respected and valued. Advocates fosters a culture of inclusion that celebrates and promotes diversity along multiple dimensions, including race, ethnicity, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, partnered status, age, national origin, socioeconomic status, religion, ability, culture, and experience.