Recreation Counselor - DSP

Lifetime Assistance – DSP Recreation Counselor
Make an Impact. Create Joy. Shape the Future.

At Lifetime Assistance, our mission is to foster independence, dignity, and respect for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Working with us goes beyond just a job—it’s a chance to transform lives, including your own.

Position Overview:

Job Title: Recreation Counselor- DSP
Location: Community-Based (Hourly Respite)
Department: Community Services
Reports To: Senior Coordinator of Community Services
Employment Type: Full-Time, 40 hours/week – Tuesday-Friday 1pm-9pm & Saturday 10am-6pm
Pay Range: $19.49-$20.52 per hour

Why You Should Work for Lifetime Assistance?

• No-Premium Health Insurance: Access comprehensive healthcare without added cost.
• Education Support: Tuition assistance, scholarships — 50% off tuition for two courses per semester plus up to $3,000 scholarship per semester — plus micro-credential stipends up to $750 and SUNY partnerships.
• Paid Training & Coaching: Receive hands-on onboarding with a Success Coach, immersive learning, e-learning, and ongoing paid training.
• Career Growth: Clear pathways to advancement, leadership training, and coaching support.
• Work-Life Harmony: Generous paid time off and supportive scheduling.
• Join a Caring Culture: Be part of a compassionate, mission-driven team that values every person — both those we support and our employees alike.

Your Core Responsibilities:
Documentation & Compliance

• Complete accurate daily documentation and submit all records in accordance with OPWDD and Lifetime Assistance, Inc. requirements.
• Complete required weekly and monthly billing documentation and ensure timely submission.
• Maintain compliance with all agency paperwork and reporting standards.

Training & Professional Development

• Complete all required agency and role-specific training.
• Maintain active certifications, including CPR and First Aid.
• Attend staff meetings, agency meetings, and in-service training as requested.

Health, Safety & Reporting

• Ensure the safety, health, and well-being of individuals always supported.
• Identify and immediately report concerns related to abuse, neglect, safety risks, or policy violations to supervisors or designated authorities.
• Maintain a safe and respectful environment in accordance with written support plans.

Direct Support & Supervision

• Provide direct support, guidance, and supervision based on each individual’s Life Plan, Behavioral Support Plan (BSP), and service goals.
• Adhere to assigned Levels of Supervision at all times.
• Complete all required service units per assigned caseload.

Community Integration & Individual Choice

• Support individuals in building positive relationships and social experiences.
• Facilitate meaningful community activities that reflect personal choice and promote independence and inclusion.
• Encourage skill development and participation in community life.

Transportation & Vehicle Responsibilities

• Safely transport individuals using a reliable, properly insured vehicle.
• Meet Lifetime Assistance, Inc. Vehicle Operator requirements.
• Complete all required vehicle logs and documentation and report accidents or maintenance concerns promptly.

Professional Conduct & Ethics

• Maintain professionalism in appearance, attendance, punctuality, and reliability.
• Adhere to New York State DSP Core Competencies and DSP Code of Ethics.
• Follow all agency policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.

What You Bring:
Education & Experience

• High School Diploma or High School Equivalency preferred.
• Relevant experience in human services or working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities is a plus.

Licensing & Transportation

• Valid New York State Driver’s License.
• Reliable, properly insured vehicle meeting agency standards.

Communication & Problem-Solving

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to interpret policies, follow detailed instructions, and respond to complex situations.
• Ability to engage professionally with individuals supported, families, staff, and community partners.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit, stand, walk, and reach as needed throughout shifts.
• Frequent use of hands for documentation and mobile device use.
• Ability to lift up to 35 pounds.

Our Mission & Culture:

• Mission-Driven Work: Empowering individuals to live with independence and purpose—here, your work truly matters.
• Inclusive & Supportive: A workplace built on respect, dignity, and a shared vision of inclusion.
• Community Impact: Join efforts that reflect Lifetime Assistance’s dedication to community partnerships and enhanced quality of life for all.

Are You Ready to Begin?

If you’re a compassionate leader ready to take the next step in your human services career, apply today and join us in building lives of independence—one person at a time.

Equal Opportunity Employer
Lifetime Assistance is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to inclusive hiring practices without regard to race, religion, gender, age, disability, or other protected characteristics.

“I am part of something bigger… Being a Lifetime Assistance employee means everything to me.”
— Kimberly C, Family Coordinator of Community Services, celebrating her 30th year with us