Direct Support Professional – Day Program

Make a Difference Every Day. Join the NHIA Team!

Do you enjoy helping others, building meaningful connections, and making a positive difference in people's lives?

If YES… we want YOU to join the NHIA team!

New Horizons in Autism is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing diverse opportunities that enhance the quality of life for adults with autism. Since 1980, NHIA has proudly served individuals and families throughout Bergen, Monmouth, and Ocean Counties.

We are seeking caring, compassionate, dedicated, and reliable individuals to join our team as Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) in our Day Program.

Day Program locations now hiring!

• Mahwah
• Freehold
• Toms River
• Whiting

About the Role

As a Direct Support Professional in our Day Program, you will play an important role in helping adults with autism learn, grow, build independence, and participate in meaningful activities and experiences.

This is a rewarding, hands-on position where you will provide direct care, support, and supervision while helping the individuals we serve reach their personal goals and enjoy a meaningful day.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Providing direct care, support, and supervision to individuals with autism

• Assisting with personal care and daily living activities

• Supporting medication management

• Assisting with behavior management and implementing established support strategies

• Teaching and reinforcing life skills and independence

• Providing structure, guidance, and encouragement throughout the day

• Supporting participation in recreational, educational, vocational, and community-based activities

• Providing transportation and assistance with community outings, as needed

• Maintaining accurate and timely documentation

• Promoting positive relationships and meaningful engagement

• Working collaboratively with fellow team members to provide the highest level of care and support

Every day is an opportunity to make a difference. Your compassion, patience, and dedication can help the individuals we serve develop new skills, build confidence, and experience greater independence.

Schedule

Full-Time  |  Monday–Friday | 8:00 AM–4:00 PM

Enjoy a consistent weekday schedule while doing meaningful work that positively impacts the lives of others!

What We're Looking For

The individuals we serve rely on our team, and we're looking for people who are ready to make a difference.

We are seeking individuals who are:

• Caring, compassionate, and patient

• Dependable, responsible, and dedicated

• Positive and enthusiastic

• Willing to learn and grow professionally

• Comfortable working in a hands-on environment

• Able to exercise sound judgment and tact

• Able to communicate effectively with individuals with autism

• Committed to providing respectful, person-centered support

• Able to work effectively as part of a professional team

Experience working with individuals with autism is a plus, but not required. NHIA provides extensive hands-on training to help you develop the skills and confidence needed to succeed.

Extensive Hands-On Training Provided

At NHIA, we invest in our employees from day one.

Our comprehensive Agency Training provides hands-on instruction designed to prepare you to deliver exceptional care and support to the individuals we serve. You'll receive the training, guidance, and support you need to confidently begin your career with NHIA.

Qualifications

To be considered for this position, you must:

• Have a High School Diploma, GED, or higher degree
  Diploma or transcripts must be provided.

• Be at least 20 years of age

• Have a valid New Jersey driver's license

• Successfully complete all required pre-employment screenings, including:

  • Central Registry

  • CARI

  • DMV

  • Fingerprinting

  • Drug screening

  • Physical examination

  • PPD testing

• Demonstrate the ability to interact appropriately and effectively with individuals with autism

• Possess strong problem-solving skills and sound judgment

• Communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing

• Maintain a professional, respectful, and positive approach

What We Offer Full-Time Employees

Starting Pay: $19.00 per hour

When you join NHIA, you're joining a team that believes in supporting its employees and providing opportunities to grow.

Full-time employees receive:

• Paid Training

• Paid Time Off (PTO) 

• Paid Sick Time

• Holiday Pay

• Tenure Bonus

• Employee Referral Bonus

• Multiple Tuition Discount Programs

• FREE RBT Certification Program

• Opportunities for professional development

• Opportunities for advancement — we love to promote from within!

Additional Full-Time Benefits

• Medical Insurance

• Dental Insurance

• Vision Insurance

• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)

• 401(k) with Employer Match

• Additional voluntary insurance options through Allstate

• Potential overtime opportunities (not guaranteed)

• Career advancement opportunities

A Career With Purpose

Being a Direct Support Professional is more than a job — it's an opportunity to change lives!

You'll help adults with autism build independence, develop valuable life skills, explore their communities, form meaningful connections, and achieve their personal goals.

Your work matters. Your support matters. And the difference you make matters.

As a nonprofit organization, NHIA may also qualify eligible employees for the Public Service Federal Student Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program, subject to applicable program requirements.

Ready to Make a Difference?

Join a team that is passionate about supporting, empowering, and advocating for individuals with autism.

Bring your compassion. Bring your energy. Bring your passion for helping others.

Join NHIA and make a difference every day!