Direct Support Professional I (Homes)

About the Role

This is an entry-level position 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.” Direct Support Professionals empower individuals to live and receive services in a way that honors their abilities and supports their goals. No prior experience is required; training will be provided.

As an integral part of the care team, you will collaborate with other Direct Support Professionals, Programmers, Supervisors, individuals served, and their families to ensure the best possible care. You will fulfill an individual’s behavioral care plan by creatively strategizing the best way for each person to reach and exceed their goals.

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 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

• Mission-oriented: Aligned with the mission to empower people to reach individual achievement across the spectrum of life.
• Attitude of Learning: Willingness to adapt and learn in a constantly evolving caregiving field.
• Communication Skills: Strong ability to communicate effectively with the team and individuals served.
• Confidence: Ability to balance boldness and humility, knowing when to advocate and when to follow leadership.
• Age Requirement: Must be at least 16 years of age for Supported Community Living (SCL) settings or 18 years for Habilitation (HAB) settings.
• Driver’s License: Required for transportation responsibilities; must demonstrate safe driving ability.
• Education: High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Work Authorization: Must be authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.

Physical Demands

• Must remain awake during working hours.
• May assist in transferring individuals to/from wheelchair, chair, bed, toilet, vehicle, etc.
• May require lifting up to 35 pounds; lifting more than 35 pounds requires a two-person lift, mechanical lift, or assistive equipment.
• May attend and participate in activities of the individual’s choice (e.g., church services, swimming, bowling).
• May require prolonged walking and standing for up to eight hours.
• May require frequent bending, stooping, and stretching.
• May require driving for up to eight hours.
• May experience various climatic conditions.
• May work with difficult emotional and physical behaviors (e.g., seizures, physical aggression).
• Must have the ability to see objects/persons at a distance and perform close work such as reading typed or handwritten material.
• Must have the ability to hear conversations in quiet and noisy environments, determine the direction of sounds, and distinguish among bells, buzzers, beeps, horns, etc.
• Must have the ability to communicate through speech.
• Must have the ability to drive and transport for service provision as needed.

Pay

Base pay is $17/hour. Higher starting pay may be available with education and experience.

Schedule

This is a 24/7 service provider role offering a variety of shifts and scheduling options based on program needs, including weekends and holidays.

Benefits

• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO).
• 401k Retirement Plan.
• Comprehensive insurance plans (medical, dental, vision, life).
• Pre-Paid Legal Services.
• Discounted Costco or Sam’s Club memberships.
• Advancement opportunities, including a leadership development program.
• Employee Assistance Program for life’s ups and downs.