Advanced Direct Support Role for Individuals with Challenging or Aggressive Behaviors
Location: Dubuque, IA
Schedule: Full-Time | 3-Day or 4-Day Work Week Options
BASE Wage Range: $19.78–$21.78/hour + Premium Pay
Average Blended Pay: $23.08–$25.41/hour (based on premium weekend pay)
The DSP III position is an advanced behavioral support role.
You will work directly with individuals who may display aggressive, challenging, or self-injurious behaviors, requiring structured support, strong emotional regulation, safety awareness, and effective de-escalation strategies.
If you thrive in high-intensity environments, enjoy helping people navigate behavioral challenges, and want to develop behavioral intervention skills, this role is a strong fit.
If you are looking for a traditional caregiving-only DSP position, this role may not be the right match.
This is a hands-on behavioral support position working with individuals who have high behavioral needs, including physical aggression, property destruction, escalation behaviors, and complex emotional regulation needs.
3-Day Work Week = ~203 Days Off/Year
DAY SHIFTS:
Thur (6AM–7PM), Fri, Sat (9AM–9PM)
Wed (6AM–7PM), Fri, Sat (9AM–9PM)
Wed, Fri (6AM–7PM), Sat (6AM–6PM)
$20.53 base wage on Wed Fri
OVERNIGHT SHIFT:
Work with clients who may display aggressive, challenging, or self-injurious behaviors
Use behavioral support strategies, including de-escalation and redirection
Implement individualized behavior support plans (BSPs)
Maintain safety through proactive structure, calm responses, and physical/environmental awareness
Support emotional regulation and teach alternative, appropriate behaviors
Serve as part of a higher-level behavioral support team
As a Direct Support Professional III at Hills & Dales, you will:
Support individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities who have significant behavioral support needs
Teach essential life skills and promote independence
Provide behavioral intervention, coaching, and structured support
Create meaningful community experiences and safe daily routines
Maintain documentation, monitor behavior data, and follow intervention procedures
This is not an entry-level DSP job - this is a behavioral intervention-focused role requiring confidence, patience, and strong communication skills.
High School Diploma or GED
2+ years in behavioral health preferred
Valid driver's license
Strong communication & documentation skills
Ability to lift 35 lbs and manage behavioral escalations
Clean background check and drug screen
Openness to training in safety techniques and behavior management
At Hills & Dales, we are passionate about building meaningful lives - for the individuals we support and the team members who support them.
You'll join a caring, skilled team with:
Real opportunities for advancement
A supportive environment for learning behavioral strategies
A schedule designed for work-life balance
The chance to make a true impact every single day
Offer contingent upon the succressful completetion of a criminal background check, dependernt adult and child abuse background check, and drug screen.