American Sign Language, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Background Investigation, Coaching, Communication Skills, Community Support, Customer Support/Service, Developmental Disabilities, Documentation, Driver's License, Employee Orientation, High School Diploma, Leadership, Mentoring, Personal Care, Problem Solving Skills, Team Player, Time Management, Training/Teaching
Direct Support Professional
Company Overview
We are a mission-driven human services organization providing community-based support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) in La Cañada and surrounding areas. Our team is dedicated to helping each person live with greater independence, connection, and dignity.
We foster an energetic, team-oriented environment where staff are encouraged to learn, grow, and build meaningful relationships with the people they support.
The Opportunity
As a Direct Support Professional, you will do work that matters every day. You will mentor, teach, and advocate for adults with I/DD, helping them build confidence, access their community, and reach their personal goals.
This is a strong fit if you enjoy being active, solving problems on the spot, and forming genuine, long-term connections. You will gain hands-on experience in human services, professional training, and support from a leadership team invested in your development.
What You'll Do
- Support individuals with I/DD in daily living activities, personal care, and routines that promote independence and dignity.
- Accompany and assist clients with community access, including social, recreational, and educational outings.
- Coordinate and transport clients to medical appointments and other essential activities using your reliable transportation.
- Encourage positive peer interactions and help clients practice communication, social skills, and problem-solving.
- Collaborate with teammates and supervisors to follow support plans, communicate observations, and ensure a safe, respectful environment.
What Success Looks Like
- Within your first 3 months, you build trusting relationships with the individuals you support and understand their routines, preferences, and goals.
- Clients you work with increase their participation in community, recreational, or peer activities based on their interests and support plans.
- You consistently arrive on time, complete required documentation, and communicate clearly with families, team members, and supervisors.
- You actively seek feedback, complete required training, and demonstrate steady growth in judgment, crisis response, and advocacy skills.
What We're Looking For
- Good judgment and practical problem-solving skills in day-to-day and unexpected situations.
- Strong communication skills and a collaborative approach to working with clients, families, and team members.
- A genuine passion for helping others, with the willingness to learn, receive coaching, and grow in the role.
- 21+ years old with reliable transportation, a valid CA driver’s license, ability to pass a background check, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Experience in human services and/or American Sign Language is a plus.
Compensation and Benefits
- $20.00 - $25.00 per hour
- Health insurance and additional benefits for full-time positions, flexible schedules, and ongoing training.
- Full-time and part-time roles available
- Day shifts with rotating weekend availability; 4-hour and 8-hour shifts offered; in-person work in the La Cañada area.
How to Apply
If you are ready to make a meaningful difference and grow your career in human services, please submit your resume and contact information through this posting. Qualified candidates will be contacted to discuss next steps.