Direct Support Professional - Substitute/Per-Diem

Make a Meaningful Difference Every Day

At Oak Hill, we believe every person deserves the opportunity to live a life filled with dignity, purpose, independence, and connection.

For more than 130 years, Oak Hill has partnered with individuals with disabilities to provide services and solutions that promote independence, education, health, and dignity. As Connecticut's largest private provider of disability services, we are committed to creating opportunities that empower people to live meaningful and self-directed lives.

We are seeking compassionate, dependable, and motivated individuals to join our team as a Direct Support Professional (DSP). Whether you have prior experience as a DSP, CNA, caregiver, home health aide, or are looking to begin a rewarding career in human services, Oak Hill provides the training, support, and opportunities needed to succeed.

About Community Programs

Oak Hill’s Community Programs are designed to support individuals in living full and meaningful lives. Through residential services, recreational opportunities, and community engagement opportunities, individuals are empowered to build independence, relationships, and purpose. Our residential model prioritizes choice, dignity, and inclusion, offering a range of living options supported by experienced, compassionate staff. Community Programs is built on a simple but powerful belief: every person deserves to live the life they choose.

Every day, the Community Programs Team works alongside individuals to help them achieve personal goals, strengthen relationships, maintain independence, and fully participate in their communities. Learn more about Oak Hill at https://oakhillct.org/.

Position Summary

As a Direct Support Professional, you'll provide individualized support to adults in a residential setting. Working as part of a collaborative team, your work will directly contribute to helping people live healthier, more independent, and more fulfilling lives.

Position Details

• Location: West Hartford, CT
• Weekly Hours:
• Schedule:
• Compensation: $20.39/hour – Shift differentials available - based on scheduled shift
• Union Position | Overtime Eligible

What You'll Do

Support Daily Living and Independence

• Assist individuals with personal care, grooming, bathing, dressing, hygiene, and continence care based on individual needs and preferences.
• Encourage independence and skill development whenever possible.
• Support meal planning, meal preparation, dining, and nutritional needs.
• Assist with household activities and maintaining a safe, clean, and welcoming home environment.

Support Health and Wellness

• Administer medications and maintain accurate medication records in accordance with training requirements and nursing directives.
• Monitor health-related concerns and communicate changes appropriately.
• Follow individualized healthcare plans and support overall wellness.
• Assist individuals with scheduling and attending medical and healthcare appointments.

Promote Community Inclusion

• Transport individuals to appointments, recreational activities, employment opportunities, and community events using agency vehicles.
• Support participation in community activities, social opportunities, and personal interests.
• Encourage relationship-building, self-advocacy, and meaningful community involvement.

Provide Physical and Behavioral Support

• Assist individuals with mobility and transfers using approved techniques and adaptive equipment when necessary.
• Implement behavioral support strategies and individualized support plans.
• Utilize trained intervention techniques when appropriate.
• Respond to emergencies, health-related incidents, and crisis situations according to agency procedures.

Documentation and Compliance

• Accurately document daily activities, health information, progress notes, incidents, and medication administration in the electronic health record.
• Ensure compliance with Oak Hill policies and applicable DDS, DPH, HIPAA, OSHA, and regulatory requirements.
• Maintain confidentiality and protect individual rights at all times.

Collaborate as a Team Member

• Communicate effectively with coworkers, supervisors, family members, healthcare providers, and other stakeholders.
• Participate in team meetings, required trainings, and professional development activities.
• Support continuity of care through clear communication and collaboration across shifts and teams.

Success in This Role Looks Like

• Individuals are healthy, safe, and supported in achieving their personal goals.
• Meaningful relationships are built with individuals, families, and team members.
• Documentation is completed accurately and on time.
• Community participation and engagement opportunities increase.
• Individuals develop greater independence, confidence, and quality of life.
• Services consistently meet Oak Hill and regulatory quality standards.

What You'll Bring

Required Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• High School Diploma or GED.
• Valid driver's license and ability to transport individuals using agency vehicles.
• Ability to successfully complete required background checks, fingerprinting, and pre-employment health screenings.
• Ability to complete required training programs and maintain necessary certifications.
• Ability to perform the physical requirements of the role, including assisting with mobility and transfers when needed.
• Commitment to maintaining a safe, healthy, and professional work environment.
• Commitment to continuity of care, including occasional schedule flexibility when needed.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience as a Direct Support Professional (DSP).
• Experience as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), caregiver, home health aide, behavioral health technician, or similar human services professional.
• Experience supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
• Medication Administration Certification, CPR, or First Aid certifications.

New to Direct Care/Human Services?

No problem.

We're looking for compassionate and dependable individuals who are eager to learn and committed to helping others. Oak Hill provides paid training and ongoing support to help you build a successful and rewarding career.

Why Join Oak Hill?

For more than 130 years, Oak Hill has empowered people with disabilities to live, learn, work, and thrive. We believe our employees are essential to that mission and are committed to supporting their success.

When You Join Oak Hill, You'll Enjoy:

• Paid training and certifications, including DDS Medication Certification.
• Career mobility opportunities after six months, including transfers and advancement opportunities.
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick, personal, and holiday time.
• Affordable medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 403(b) Retirement Plan with an annual Oak Hill contribution equal to 9.5% of eligible gross earnings, regardless of employee contribution.
• Employer-paid long-term disability insurance.
• Life insurance options, including employer-paid coverage.
• Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities.
• Employee recognition and appreciation programs.
• A mission-driven culture where your work truly matters.

Position Summary

As a Direct Support Professional, you'll provide individualized support to adults in a residential setting. Working as part of a collaborative team, your work will directly contribute to helping people live healthier, more independent, and more fulfilling lives.

Position Details

• Location: West Hartford, CT
• Compensation: $20.39/hour Base Rate – differential pay available (for specific schedules)
• Weekly Schedule & Hours: Oak Hill Substitutes work on a Per Diem (as needed) basis, to ensure that all standards of care are met, even when core staff are unable to work. There is no regular schedule assignment for this position. Substitute Direct Support Professionals are required to accept and work a minimum of 15 hours per month to maintain active employment.
• Note: Due to the specific needs of individials at this program, only male applicants cant be considered at this time

Union Position | Non-exempt | Overtime Eligible

What You'll Do

Support Daily Living and Independence

• Assist individuals with personal care, grooming, bathing, dressing, hygiene, and continence care based on individual needs and preferences.
• Encourage independence and skill development whenever possible.
• Support meal planning, meal preparation, dining, and nutritional needs.
• Assist with household activities and maintaining a safe, clean, and welcoming home environment.

Support Health and Wellness

• Administer medications and maintain accurate medication records in accordance with training requirements and nursing directives.
• Monitor health-related concerns and communicate changes appropriately.
• Follow individualized healthcare plans and support overall wellness.
• Assist individuals with scheduling and attending medical and healthcare appointments.

Promote Community Inclusion

• Transport individuals to appointments, recreational activities, employment opportunities, and community events using agency vehicles.
• Support participation in community activities, social opportunities, and personal interests.
• Encourage relationship-building, self-advocacy, and meaningful community involvement.

Provide Physical and Behavioral Support

• Assist individuals with mobility and transfers using approved techniques and adaptive equipment when necessary.
• Implement behavioral support strategies and individualized support plans.
• Utilize trained intervention techniques when appropriate.
• Respond to emergencies, health-related incidents, and crisis situations according to agency procedures.

Documentation and Compliance

• Accurately document daily activities, health information, progress notes, incidents, and medication administration in the electronic health record.
• Ensure compliance with Oak Hill policies and applicable DDS, DPH, HIPAA, OSHA, and regulatory requirements.
• Maintain confidentiality and protect individual rights at all times.

Collaborate as a Team Member

• Communicate effectively with coworkers, supervisors, family members, healthcare providers, and other stakeholders.
• Participate in team meetings, required trainings, and professional development activities.
• Support continuity of care through clear communication and collaboration across shifts and teams.

Success in This Role Looks Like

• Individuals are healthy, safe, and supported in achieving their personal goals.
• Meaningful relationships are built with individuals, families, and team members.
• Documentation is completed accurately and on time.
• Community participation and engagement opportunities increase.
• Individuals develop greater independence, confidence, and quality of life.
• Services consistently meet Oak Hill and regulatory quality standards.

What You'll Bring

Required Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• High School Diploma or GED.
• Valid driver's license and ability to transport individuals using agency vehicles.
• Ability to successfully complete required background checks, fingerprinting, and pre-employment health screenings.
• Ability to complete required training programs and maintain necessary certifications.
• Ability to perform the physical requirements of the role, including assisting with mobility and transfers when needed.
• Commitment to maintaining a safe, healthy, and professional work environment.
• Commitment to continuity of care, including occasional schedule flexibility when needed.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience as a Direct Support Professional (DSP).
• Experience as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), caregiver, home health aide, behavioral health technician, or similar human services professional.
• Experience supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
• Medication Administration Certification, CPR, or First Aid certifications.

New to Direct Care/Human Services?

No problem.

We're looking for compassionate and dependable individuals who are eager to learn and committed to helping others. Oak Hill provides paid training and ongoing support to help you build a successful and rewarding career.

You'll Thrive in This Role If You...

Lead with Compassion - You build trust through patience, empathy, respect, and a genuine desire to help others succeed.

Build Meaningful Relationships - You enjoy getting to know people, understanding their goals, and supporting them in achieving what matters most to them.

Adapt and Problem-Solve - You remain flexible when situations change and approach challenges with a calm, solutions-focused mindset.

Value Teamwork - You understand that great support happens through collaboration, communication, and shared accountability.

Find Purpose in Helping Others - You are motivated by meaningful work and take pride in making a positive difference in someone's life every day.

Why Join Oak Hill?

For more than 130 years, Oak Hill has empowered people with disabilities to live, learn, work, and thrive. We believe our employees are essential to that mission and are committed to supporting their success.

When You Join Oak Hill, You'll Enjoy:

• Paid training and certifications, including DDS Medication Certification.
• Career mobility opportunities after six months, including transfers and advancement opportunities.
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick, personal, and holiday time.
• Affordable medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 403(b) Retirement Plan with an annual Oak Hill contribution equal to 9.5% of eligible gross earnings, regardless of employee contribution.
• Employer-paid long-term disability insurance.
• Life insurance options, including employer-paid coverage.
• Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities.
• Employee recognition and appreciation programs.
• A mission-driven culture where your work truly matters.