Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Job Description

Job Description

• Do you want to help others live more independent, fulfilling lives?
• Do you bring compassion, patience, and a hands-on approach to your work?
• Are you looking to grow with a supportive team and make a real impact?

If you answered yes, this could be an opportunity for you!

Our Place of New Trier is seeking a compassionate, dependable, and team-oriented Direct Support Professional (DSP) to join our dedicated staff. In this full-time role, you'll provide hands-on, person-centered support to teens and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in a safe, welcoming, and engaging environment. You'll play an essential role in helping participants build independence, develop life skills, and stay actively connected to their community. This is a rewarding opportunity for someone who values relationship-building, dignity in care, and creating meaningful daily experiences, with opportunities to grow professionally and advance into programming and instructional roles over time.

Our Place of New Trier

Our Place of New Trier is a non-profit organization dedicated to advocating for teens and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the north suburbs of Chicago. Since 2008, this inclusive and impactful organization has served its 120+ participants by providing a wide array of engaging in-person and online programs and activities with a goal of building the skills and relationships needed for participants to become fully contributing members of their community. We are a cutting-edge alternative to the traditional day programming for individuals with disabilities. To learn more about our organization and the way we serve our community, please visit us at

WHAT WE OFFER

• Full-time non exempt position (37.5 - 40 hours) with an hourly rate of $19.00/hour based on experience and qualifications
• Generous time off including 18 PTO Days
• Nine Paid Holidays
• Blue Cross Blue Shield medical & dental insurance ( Effective upon start date with a significant portion of the premium coverage paid by Our Place)
• Vision, LTD, STD & Life ($25K) insurance (fully company paid) and optional voluntary life Insurance
• 403(b) Retirement Plan with generous dollar for dollar employer match up to 3% of pay.
• Excellent training ground and development opportunities for individuals interested in social services, education, recreation and art-oriented therapeutic activities
• Paid training in CPR/first aid, CPI, behavioral safety training, and professional development support
• A stable organization (founded in 2008)

JOB SUMMARY

Reporting to the Senior Program Manager , the Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides direct care and support to participants with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This role focuses on promoting independence, ensuring safety and well-being, and fostering meaningful engagement in daily activities.

• Support participants in building life skills that promote independence, confidence, and personal growth through one-on-one and group activities
• Facilitate participation in social, recreational, and community-based programs
• Build trusting, respectful relationships with participants and encourage positive peer interactions
• Assist with personal care and hygiene while maintaining dignity and respect and ensuring the health, safety, and well-being of all participants
• Document services accurately and communicate effectively with team members and families
• Provide transportation and support during community outings as needed

SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS

• Compassionate and respectful approach to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities
• Flexibility and adaptability to meet individual needs and changing program demands
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team
• High school diploma or equivalent required
• 1-2 years of related experience preferred (direct support, community programs, or disability services)
• CPR/First Aid and Medication Administration certification (or willingness to obtain)
• Valid driver's license (if transporting participants)
• Ability to pass required background checks

Job Location & Hours:

The position's schedule is 9 am-5 pm M-F and is onsite in Wilmette, IL with the ability to travel to other locations within the community using a company van. One Saturday evening per month is also required for a social event (5:30-9:00 p.m.) - additional stipend paid for time ($150.00).

HOW TO APPLY

Our organization serves as an integral part of the community and plays a key role in the lives of the individuals we support. If you are interested in joining a service-oriented team that continually strives for excellence, please submit your resume by clicking the apply button.

Our Place of New Trier is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

All offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of a satisfactory background check.

AI may have been used during the recruiting process. See (link) to learn how.

Key Words: Social Services, Disability Support, Paraprofessional, Inclusion Companion, Care Assistant, Direct Care Worker, Program Aide