Direct Support Professional

We are seeking a dedicated Direct Support Professional in Norwich, CT.

Caregiver | Direct Support Professional DSP | Home Health
Location: Connecticut
Employment Type: Flexible
Work Location: Field-Based
Schedule: Flexible
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and applicable Connecticut law

About Our Company

OneWell Health Care and its affiliate, OneWell of Connecticut LLC, are dedicated to empowering individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) and Autism to lead fulfilling, self-directed lives. We provide compassionate, person-centered care that promotes dignity, independence, and inclusion across community and home settings.

Position Summary

The Caregiver | Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides person-centered, community-based support to individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) and Autism. The DSP assists individuals with daily living activities, skill development, health and safety monitoring, and community participation while promoting dignity, independence, and inclusion in alignment with Connecticut regulatory standards and OneWell Health Care values.

Position Scope

This position operates within the IDD Services Department and reports to the Program Supervisor, Clinical Supervisor, or designated leadership. The Caregiver | Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides direct support services in residential homes, community settings, and/or day programs throughout Connecticut. The role requires adherence to individualized service plans (ISPs), behavioral support plans, and all applicable state and federal regulations.

Key Responsibilities

The Caregiver | Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides person-centered support to individuals with IDD, assisting with activities of daily living (ADLs), implementing Individualized Service Plans (ISPs) and Behavioral Support Plans (BSPs), supporting community integration, and promoting independence. Responsibilities include medication administration (as certified), monitoring health and safety, maintaining clean and safe environments, responding to incidents, and completing accurate and timely documentation. The DSP collaborates with interdisciplinary teams, participates in required trainings and meetings, assists with transportation and appointments, and supports quality improvement efforts in compliance with agency and regulatory standards.

Regulatory Frameworks

This role operates in compliance with:

• Connecticut Department of Developmental Services (DDS) regulations
• Medicaid (HUSKY Health) requirements
• CMS Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) rules
• HIPAA privacy standards
• OSHA safety standards
• Applicable Connecticut labor laws

Confidentiality

The Caregiver | Direct Support Professional (DSP) must maintain strict confidentiality of participant health, behavioral, financial, and personal information in accordance with HIPAA, DDS requirements, and OneWell Health Care policies.

Documentation Requirements

The DSP is responsible for accurate and timely completion of:

• Daily service notes
• Progress notes
• Medication Administration Records (MARs)
• Incident reports
• Behavioral data tracking
• Attendance and timekeeping records

All documentation must meet agency, Medicaid, and state compliance standards.

Certifications

Preferred but not required upon hire (may be required after employment):

• CPR and First Aid Certification
• Medication Administration Certification (per Connecticut DDS standards)
• PMT/CPI or approved behavioral intervention training

Education

• High School Diploma or GED required
• Minimum age of 18 years

Experience

• Experience working with individuals with IDD preferred
• Experience in behavioral support or community-based services preferred

Technical Skills

• Ability to use electronic documentation systems
• Basic computer and mobile application proficiency
• Ability to follow written service plans and protocols
• Safe lifting and transfer techniques

Languages

English proficiency required (spoken and written) Bilingual abilities are a plus

Driver License

Valid Driver’s License required Reliable transportation and acceptable driving record Ability to transport participants when required

Travel Requirement

Local travel within assigned Connecticut service areas may be required to support participants in community settings, appointments, and activities. Evening, weekend, and holiday work may be required based on participant needs.

Benefits

Compensation and Financial Benefits

• Paid sick leave
• Vacation time
• Very competitive wages
• Overtime pay
• Referral bonuses
• Weekly direct deposit
• DailyPay (get paid before payday)
• Mileage reimbursement (if applicable)
• Retirement plan benefits 401(k)

Health & Wellness Benefits (available for full time employees)

• Medical (PPO, Flex, and HSA plans)
• Dental
• Vision
• Critical Illness Insurance
• Accident Insurance
• Hospital Insurance
• Short-Term Disability
• Long-Term Disability & Life Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Pet Insurance

Work-Life Balance & Other Benefits

• Flexible scheduling
• Supportive supervisor and work environment

Legal Disclaimer

This job description reflects the general nature and scope of the role and is not exhaustive. OneWell Health Care reserves the right to revise responsibilities, qualifications, or expectations at its discretion, consistent with applicable law. Employment is at-will and may be terminated by either party at any time, with or without cause or notice.

Join OneWell Health Care — where your work truly changes lives.