Are you an experienced Direct Support Professional looking to take the next step in your career while continuing to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others?

As a DSP Lead, you'll split your time between providing hands-on, person-centered support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and serving as a mentor, trainer, and resource for fellow staff. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys helping others succeed, leading by example, and ensuring high-quality services while remaining actively involved in direct care.

REPORTS TO: House Manager
PAY RATE: $19.90/hour (paid biweekly)

SCHEDULE: Monday - Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, with flexibility as required by the needs of the program and the individuals we support

Sign-On Bonus

 New to our team? Eligible DSP new hires may qualify for a sign-on bonus. 

• $500 – Per diem
• $750 – Part-time
• $1,000 – Full-time

Bonuses are paid in four equal installments at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months of employment.

What You’ll Do

 As a DSP Lead, you'll play a key role in both direct service delivery and program operations. You'll provide hands-on support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, assisting with personal care, medication administration, community participation, transportation, skill-building, and daily living activities that promote independence and quality of life. You'll also help coordinate medical appointments, recreational opportunities, and other supports that help individuals achieve their goals.

In addition to direct support responsibilities, you'll serve as a lead worker and resource for program staff. You'll assist with onboarding and training new employees, reinforce best practices, support staff in implementing person-centered plans, monitor documentation for accuracy and completeness, and help ensure compliance with Agency and OPWDD requirements. Working closely with supervisors, nurses, families, and other stakeholders, you'll help maintain high-quality services, support positive team culture, and ensure individuals receive safe, consistent, person-centered care.

Paid Training & Career Growth

Cerebral Palsy Association of the North Country provides paid orientation and training, including Medication Certification training. Employees may also have opportunities to earn free college credits, nationally recognized DSP certifications, and additional professional development through SUNY and OPWDD-supported programs.

Benefits

Eligible employees may receive access to excellent, affordable benefits, including:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Life insurance and disability coverage
• 401(k) with employer matching
• Paid vacation, sick, personal, and holiday time
• Educational and professional development opportunities

If you're organized, dependable, passionate about supporting others, and ready to grow your leadership skills, we'd love to hear from you.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS

1. High School Diploma, GED, or DSP certification required. NADSP certification preferred.

2. Minimum of 1 year of previous DSP experience required. 

3. Successful completion of Agency orientation and training programs.

4. Medication Certification required.

5. NYS Driver’s License with two years of driving experience required.

6. Acceptable motor vehicle abstract to meet Agency insurability standards.

7. Reliable personal vehicle for business use.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

1. Heavy work; ability to frequently lift 25 – 50 lbs., and transfer and support individuals with and without help. 

2. Physical strength to safely respond should a behavioral crisis occur. 

3. Ability to operate personal and Agency vehicles. 

4. Ability to walk and stand for extended periods of time. 

5. Some exposure to infectious diseases, hygiene issues, food, and other odors. 

6. Able to tolerate atmospheric conditions when performing regular outdoor seasonal activities. 

7. Ability to operate mechanical devices used by individuals.