Direct Support Professional (DSP) - Community-Based Services

Direct Support Professional (DSP) – Community-Based Services

Starting pay: $21.00 per hour! Experience-based wages may be available.

Looking for a job where you aren't stuck behind a desk and can make a difference in someone's everyday life?

The Arc of the Ozarks is hiring Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) for our Community Connections program! This is an opportunity to work one-on-one with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, helping them build independence, explore their communities, and work toward personal goals.

Whether you're helping someone develop everyday living skills, explore local businesses, participate in social activities, or work toward employment, you'll play an important role in helping them become more independent and involved in their community.

Bring Your Experience to The Arc!

Have experience in direct support, human services, education, caregiving, or a related field? Ask us about our experience-based pay options! Candidates whose experience goes beyond the basic requirements may qualify for additional compensation.

What does a typical day look like?

Community Connections is centered on individualized support and helping people participate more fully in the communities where they live.

As a Community Connections DSP, you'll serve as a mentor, coach, and advocate while helping individuals pursue their personal, household, and employment goals.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Encouraging independence: Support individuals as they develop skills and confidence to navigate their communities.

• Teaching everyday skills: Help individuals learn and practice personal hygiene, cooking, grocery shopping, cleaning, and other activities of daily living.

• Getting involved in the community: Explore local businesses, community resources, and social activities alongside the individuals you support.

• Supporting employment goals: Assist individuals as they pursue employment opportunities and work toward greater independence.

• Working toward personal goals: Provide individualized support that aligns with each person's household, personal, and community integration goals.

• Collaborating with your team: Work alongside coworkers to plan, coordinate, and advocate for the individuals you support.

What do I need to be successful?

We're looking for individuals who enjoy working with people, value independence, and are passionate about helping others become active members of their communities.

Position requirements include:

• Must be at least 18 years of age.

• High school diploma or GED.

• Valid chauffeur's license with a good driving record, or the ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire.

• Dependable automobile.

• Current automobile liability insurance or higher.

• A genuine interest in supporting individuals with disabilities and promoting independence.

• Dedication to the mission and individuals served by The Arc of the Ozarks.

Please see the full job description for additional duties and qualifications.

What makes this opportunity worthwhile?

We believe in giving our employees the tools, training, and support they need to succeed.

Here's what The Arc of the Ozarks offers:

• Competitive starting pay: Positions start at $21.00 per hour, with experience-based wage options available for qualifying candidates.

• Paid initial and ongoing training: Build your skills through professional development and certifications, including CPR/First Aid, MANDT verbal and physical de-escalation, Paraclete, Level One Med Aide, and more.

• Mileage reimbursement: Receive reimbursement for travel related to client activities.

• Career growth: Opportunities for advancement and professional development within the organization.

• Potential annual wage increases.

• Retirement savings: Retirement plan with an employer match of up to 4% after one year.

Important Training Requirement: This position requires weekday, daytime availability for at least the first 1–2 weeks of employment to complete required training.

Why The Arc of the Ozarks?

The Arc of the Ozarks is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities in enhancing the quality of their lives.

Our Community Connections program is about more than providing assistance. It's about helping individuals build relationships, develop new skills, explore opportunities, and become more involved in the places they call home.

If you enjoy being active, connecting with others, and helping people work toward meaningful goals, we'd love to hear from you!

Ready to make a difference in your community? Apply today!

Questions Before Applying?

Our Talent Acquisition Team would be happy to help!

• Phone: 417-771-3700 (Ask for the Talent Acquisition Team)

• Email: [email protected]

When emailing, please include your name and the position/location you're interested in.

Get to Know The Arc

Want to learn more about our organization and the individuals we support?

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