Direct Support Professional I (Homes)

About the role

This role operates in a Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Setting, defined as “medical, social, and supportive services for Iowans with functional, cognitive, and other physical or mental health needs” (Iowa Health & Human Services).

Responsibilities

• Goal Input & Person-Centered Support: Collaborate with the HCBS Supervisor and Programmer to develop individualized goals and provide direct support that focuses on teaching skills, promoting independence, and encouraging participation in recreational and community activities.
• Behavioral & Rights-Based Support: Use approved behavioral strategies to support individuals with challenging behaviors while respecting rights restrictions only as outlined by the interdisciplinary team and individual service plans.
• Documentation & Compliance: Complete accurate, timely, and Iowa Code–compliant documentation in Setworks, ensuring all required service details, interventions, and individual responses are properly recorded and submitted daily.
• Direct Care & Community Integration: Provide hands-on support in home and community settings, including daily living assistance, transportation, mobility support, safety monitoring, property respect, and active encouragement of choice and independence.
• Medication, Scheduling & Professional Responsibility: Administer and document medications per the six rights, follow all agency policies and procedures, maintain reliable attendance (including weekends/holidays), complete required training, and communicate concerns or updates through appropriate channels.

Requirements

• Age Requirement: Depending on the setting, you must meet specific age requirements. For Supported Community Living settings (SCL), you must be at least 16 years old. For Habilitation settings (HAB), you must be at least 18 years old.
• Driver’s License: You’ll be responsible for transportation at times, so we need to trust your ability to be safe behind the wheel.
• Education: While no higher education is necessary, we do look for candidates who have obtained their diploma or the equivalent representing their high school education.

Qualifications

• Mission-oriented: We’re on a mission to empower people to reach individual achievement across the spectrum of life. We know you are, too.
• An Attitude of Learning: The truth is, the field of caregiving is always changing and requires adaptability. We need people on our team who are always ready to learn new ways of doing things, helping people, and changing lives.
• Ability to Communicate Well: We’re looking for people with strong communication abilities so we can rely on you to communicate effectively to the rest of the team and the people we serve.
• Confidence: We’re looking for people who know how to balance being bold and being humble. We’re looking for team members who are self-aware enough to know when to stand up as an advocate for others and when it’s time to follow the leader.
• Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

Skills

• Strong communication skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Knowledge of behavioral strategies and rights-based support
• Ability to handle challenging behaviors and emotions
• Basic computer skills for documentation and compliance

Benefits

• Competitive Wages: The base pay is $17/hour. With education and experience, you could start out making more than that.
• Scheduling: We’re a 24/7 service provider, offering a variety of shifts and scheduling options based on program needs.
• Training: Comprehensive training to ensure every employee feels confident and supported as they get started.
• Paid Time Off (PTO): Access to generous PTO to help you recharge.
• 401k Retirement Plan: Secure your future with a cushioned fund that will allow you to live your best life.
• Comprehensive Insurance Plans: Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance coverage.
• Pre-Paid Legal Services: Be prepared for the things you just can’t be prepared for on your own.
• Discounted Costco or Sam’s Club Memberships: What can we say? We know a great deal when we see one.
• Advancement Opportunities: Designed leadership development opportunity to launch your career.
• Employee Assistance Program: We’re there for you through all life’s ups and downs.

Pay

The base pay is $17/hour. With education and experience, you could start out making more than that.

Schedule

We’re a 24/7 service provider, offering a variety of shifts and scheduling options based on program needs.