Direct Support Staff

Bridge of Promise enriches the quality of life of adults with developmental disabilities by providing recreational, educational, and social programs. Direct Support Staff work directly alongside participants, helping them engage in meaningful activities while providing individualized support based on their needs. Each staff member is typically assigned to support 2-3 participants during program activities.

Position Summary

The Direct Support Staff is an active member of the program team, providing direct support to participants throughout the day. This includes assisting with recreational, educational, and community-based activities, supporting activities of daily living, and creating a safe, engaging, and welcoming environment where participants can thrive.

Essential Responsibilities

Participant Support

• Encourage, support, and actively participate alongside participants in all program activities while maintaining a patient, positive, and respectful approach.
• Provide direct care to participants, including mobility assistance, feeding, toileting, diapering, and other activities of daily living as needed.
• Utilize positive behavior support techniques to help participants successfully engage in activities.
• Prepare participants for community outings.

Transportation

• Safely escort participants to, from, and within the program facility and during community outings.
• Assist participants with transportation by securing wheelchairs, fastening seat belts, operating vehicle mobility lifts, and following safe transportation procedures.
• May transport participants using a Bridge of Promise mini-bus after successful completion of required training.

Program Activities

• Under the direction of the Program Manager, develop and lead one structured small-group activity each week.
• Assist with planning, preparing, and facilitating additional program activities as needed.

Program Environment

• Maintain a clean, organized, and welcoming program environment throughout the day.
• Perform light cleaning and sanitizing duties, organize supplies, and ensure program spaces are cleaned and prepared for the following day.

Additional Duties

• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned to support program operations.

Expectations

• Arrive on time and prepared to begin work no later than 8:45 a.m.
• Actively engage with participants throughout the day, including during meals, activities, and community outing.
• Work collaboratively with fellow staff and supervisors to provide high-quality support.
• Maintain professionalism, respect participant dignity, and follow all Bridge of Promise policies and participant support plans.

Minimum Requirements

• At least 18 years of age.
• Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English.
• Successfully pass Washington State and Federal background checks.
• CPR and First Aid certification, or willingness to obtain certification through employer-provided training.

Physical Environment and Working Conditions

This position requires frequent physical activity and direct interaction with ambulatory and non-ambulatory participants in a variety of settings.

Employees must be able to:

• Assist participants with activities of daily living, including feeding, toileting, and mobility.
• Safely assist with transfers and other physical support tasks.
• Work both indoors and in community settings throughout the year.
• Lift and safely assist with up to 50 pounds.

Preferred Qualifications

The following qualifications are preferred but not required:

• High school diploma or GED.
• Experience working with adults with developmental disabilities or other caregiving experience.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to complete Bridge of Promise driver training.

Competencies

Caregiving

Professionalism

Flexibility

Collaboration Skills

Communication Proficiency

Initiative

Multitasking Capabilities

Hours

This role works Monday-Friday, 8:45 am-3:15 pm

Bridge of Promise offers a competitive compensation package. Our benefits include a 401K retirement plan, medical and dental coverage, a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) option, and paid time off.