Community Support Specialist

Create Meaningful Impact in the Lives of Others

Support Independence, Build Community, and Make a Difference Every Day

At Full Life, we're dedicated to making a real difference in the lives of people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD). For over 20 years, we've provided services that promote independence, inclusion, and personal growth. Based in Hilo and Kona, we pride ourselves on creating a warm, supportive community where every individual is empowered to thrive.

Position: Community Support Specialist

In this role, you'll play a key role in helping participants achieve their personal goals, grow their independence, and engage with their community. You'll provide hands-on support in participants' homes, at community programs, and during activities that enrich daily life, helping them build skills and confidence while fostering meaningful relationships.

What You'll Do / Day-to-Day

• Provide individualized support with daily routines and activities based on each participant's goals and preferences
• Assist with skill-building, personal development, and goal achievement
• Encourage and support participation in community, recreational, educational, and social activities
• Build positive, respectful relationships and maintain a consistent, compassionate presence
• Engage participants in meaningful activities and outings
• Support communication and social interaction with peers at the Learning Center

This role may support Learning Center participants by providing transportation and 1:1 care, which includes:

• Assisting with wheelchair mobility and positioning
• Safely transferring participants (wheelchair transfer)
• Providing full assistance with meals, including lunch support
• Supporting participants during swimming activities (pool and/or ocean)
• Assisting with personal care needs as required
• Safely transport participants to and from the Learning Center and community-based activities using a company and/or personal vehicle
• Assist participants with entering and exiting vehicles and securing mobility devices
• Ensure vehicles are clean, fueled, and in safe working condition
• Follow all traffic laws and organizational transportation policies
• Maintain accurate transportation logs and complete incident reports when necessary

Documentation & Team Communication

• Complete case notes and required documentation before the end of each shift
• Track participant progress and communicate updates with the team
• Follow all organizational policies, procedures, and care plans

Qualifications

No experience? No problem! We're looking for compassionate, motivated individuals and provide full training to set you up for success. Required qualifications:

• 18 years or older

• High School Diploma or GED (or ability to demonstrate key skills)

• CPR & First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)

• Reliable transportation, a valid driver's license, and a clean driving record

• Tuberculosis clearance (Full Life will assist with this)

Why Work with Full Life?

We empower our team to make a real impact while providing recognition, support, and opportunities to grow professionally.

• Starting Pay: $20.00/hr (part-time) or $22.50/hr (full-time) for services provided

• Driving Rate: $16.00/hr

• Training Pay: $18.00/hr

• Health Benefits: Medical insurance or $200/month stipend

• Paid Time Off: Available for full-time employees

• Retirement: 3% 401(k) match after 90 days

• Cell phone stipend + mileage reimbursement

• Student Loan Repayment Assistance: $50/month

• Career Growth: Mentorship, ongoing training, and internal promotion opportunities

• Fun Activities: Join our Full Life Ohana and participate in regular team events!

Locations

This role is primarily in Kailua-Kona, but has the flexibility to work in other areas of West Hawaii.

Ready to Apply? Here's What Happens Next

1. Submit Your Application - Tell us a little about yourself

2. Phone Interview (30 mins) - A casual chat to get to know you

3. Interview with Hiring Managers (60 mins) - Dive deeper into your skills and experience

4. Offer - Receive a contingent offer letter to welcome you to the team

5. Meet-and-Greet with Participants - Meet your new teammates and the participants you'll support

6. First Day - Start making a meaningful impact!

Fast-Track Your Application: After you apply, call our Kona office at(808) 322-9333, and we'll help you get started!

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO)

Full Life is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees are treated with respect and dignity. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

Full Life is committed to complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities during the application process, interviews, and throughout employment. If you need an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at aj@fulllifehawaii.org, and we will work with you to ensure your needs are met.