Description

About Skills

Skills of Central PA (Skills) provides support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and mental health challenges throughout central Pennsylvania. If you’re looking for a place where you can grow your career while helping people, give Skills a closer look! 

We currently have a wide variety of openings for Direct Support professionals in our Blair County programs. Shifts and locations vary based on the position, so we are likely to have an option located near you that fits with your schedule. We have positions in Altoona, Duncansville, Hollidaysburg, Roaring Spring and more!!

NOTE: CNAs receive a higher rate!

About the Job | What Do You Get to Do?

Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) are the key to the services we provide people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The job is rewarding, and you get to do the following:

• Thoroughly understand the wants and needs of the people you support 
• Plan parties, games, crafts, outings, and other activities based on the interests of people you support
• Accompany the people we support to attend fun community activities and appointments
• Support people with their daily living needs, independence skills, and personal care (e.g., grooming, bathing, feeding, cooking, cleaning, etc.)
• Administer medication(s), after you receive thorough training
• Complete documentation, as needed

About You

There are a few things you’ll need to succeed at Skills. If you’ve got what it takes, this may be the most rewarding career you’ll ever have!

• You need “grit”. In this line of work, some days are challenging. When the going gets tough, you have to be tougher.
• You need “heart”. The people we support are vulnerable, so treating them with kindness, compassion, and respect is a must, not an option.
• You need to advocate. The people we support sometimes have difficulty speaking for themselves, so you need to learn about their needs and support them.
• You need to mentor. Our day-to-day work involves teaching people the skills they need to succeed. You have to be patient and dedicated to their progress.

About the Benefits

Skills offers a great benefits package and a work environment to match!

• Competitive Pay with shift differentials for 2nd and 3rd shift
• Potential increased starting rate based on experience
• Paid Holidays
• Generous Paid Time Off, Plus Personal Time and Sick Time*
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance Options*
• Work Vehicle Available While On the Job*
• Flexible Spending Account for Medical and Dependent Care*
• 401K / Roth Retirement Program (With Employer Matching)*
• Life Insurance and Disability Insurance*
• Tuition Assistance for Higher Education*
• Employee Wellness Program
• Exceptional Opportunities for Career Growth
• Great Co-workers and a Team to Support You!

*For positions that qualify

Requirements

You do not need prior experience or a college degree to become a Direct Support Professional. In fact, we’ll provide all of the training and certification you need to be successful. There are a few simple requirements you’ll need for the position:

• 18 years of age or older
• High School diploma or GED equivalent
• Valid driver’s license
• Eligible to work in the United States