Direct Support Professional - 1st Shift

Are you someone who is passionate about making a difference in the lives of others? Do you enjoy caring for and mentoring others with disabilities? MyPath and its Operating Companies provide specialized services and dignified care for children, adolescents and adults with special needs. Our companies provide a spectrum of services and support which promote the ability of those we serve to live as independently as possible in the community. Overview Do you enjoy supporting individuals in a team-focused, community-based setting? Paragon Community Services (PCS), a MyPath Company, offers meaningful day programming and community integration opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Our mission is to provide enriching experiences and compassionate support that empower participants to grow, thrive, and lead fulfilling lives while fostering a respectful, inclusive, and collaborative workplace for all team members. Job Summary: We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Direct Support Professional (DSP) to join our team. In this role, you will provide direct care and supervision to individuals participating in our day programs. You will assist with daily living skills, facilitate structured activities, and support community outings, all while ensuring each participant's safety, dignity, and personal growth. This is a meaningful opportunity to make a lasting impact in the lives of others and be part of a team that values respect, empowerment, and inclusion. Key Responsibilities: Direct Support and Participant Engagement Provide consistent support and supervision to participants in the center and during community outings Assist with daily living activities including hygiene, feeding, and personal care based on participant-specific protocols Support individual goals outlined in Progress Reports through structured engagement and skill-building Promote participant independence and community involvement through encouragement and positive role modeling Program Activities and Documentation Facilitate a variety of activities aligned with the structured daily schedule and participants’ personal goals Encourage participation in recreational and educational experiences that build life skills and social connections Document participant progress, behaviors, incidents, and medical concerns clearly and accurately in accordance with policy Health and Safety Monitor and promote participants’ health, safety, and overall well-being in all settings Use assistive equipment appropriately and follow agency procedures for medication administration and documentation Respond effectively to emergencies, behavioral incidents, or safety concerns using only approved techniques and protocols Team Collaboration & Communication Collaborate with Program Managers, Coordinators, and fellow DSPs to support residents’ success and quality of life Attend team meetings and training sessions and contribute to ongoing, team-based treatment planning Communicate effectively and respectfully with residents, families, and coworkers, fostering trust and shared purpose Schedule Monday through Friday, daytime shifts between 8:00am and 4:00pm Occasional flexibility required based on participant and program needs Comprehensive Employee Benefits Package At Paragon Community Services, a MyPath Company, we are committed to supporting our employees' well-being, financial security, and professional growth. Our benefits package includes: Financial & Retirement Benefits 401(k) Retirement Plan with MyPath Financial Wellness Resources Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) On-demand Access to Earned Wages Student Loan Pay Down Assistance Tuition Reimbursement Health & Wellness Medical, Prescription, Dental, and Vision Plans Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) Life & Disability Insurance Voluntary Life Insurance Options Accident, Critical Illness, and Hospital Indemnity Insurance My Voyage Wellness Program Work-Life Balance & Additional Perks Paid Time Off (PTO) Accrual Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Childcare Search Assistance Employee Discount Program via PerkSpot Pet Insurance Discount We value our employees and are dedicated to providing meaningful benefits that enhance our owners lives. Qualifications: Experience: High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent preferred Experience working with individuals with disabilities in day programs, schools, camps or related settings preferred Ongoing participation in paid, in-service training is required, and we’ll support your learning every step of the way Required Skills & Attributes: Ability to maintain a calm and effective demeanor in emergency and stressful situations Strong communication skills, both written and verbal Ability to work independently and as part of a team to deliver high-quality care Ability to effectively implement approved physical intervention techniques Additional Requirements: Must be at least 16 years old May require a valid Driver’s License and an acceptable driving record, depending on the needs of the position Willingness to work with residents in a variety of environments, including home, recreational, and community settings Additional Information MyPath is composed of a beautifully diverse spectrum of employees with different characteristics, abilities, and life experiences. We believe that equitable, diverse, and inclusive practices in our workspaces are integral to the existence of MyPath. We value our diverse spectrum of Owners, the individuals we serve and the communities we encounter. Our success as an organization is directly proportional to our ability to create belonging and genuinely engage our Owners and potential Owners. We ask for demographic information so that we can be intentional in supporting our Owners best. Although not required, we would appreciate you sharing to help our commitment of cultivating a diverse, equitable, inclusive, and belonging MyPath. Our Culture At MyPath, we support an ownership culture throughout the organization. Our culture is based on our five beliefs and behaviors: Passion Accountability Teamwork Openness Continuous Learning and Innovation As an employee owner, you can expect transparency, respect and appreciation. You’ll impact the place you work and map a career within MyPath. With your passion and our breadth of services, your options are nearly limitless! MyPath is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE) committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace. We embrace the unique characteristics, abilities, and life experiences of our employees and believe that equitable and inclusive practices are essential to our success. We value the diversity of our Owners, the individuals we serve, and the communities we engage with. If you find fulfillment in helping others and want opportunities to build a career, MyPath may be your path to a promising future. Explore 150 MyPath locations to find a place and career that fits you. At MyPath, our guiding principle is passion: a passion for the people we serve and for the work we do. MyPath provides specialized services and dignified care for children, adolescents and adults with disabilities, mental health issues, and other significant needs. Operating since 1984, MyPath includes eight companies that serve over 2,000 individuals from around the country, in more than 150 program locations throughout Wisconsin and Indiana, across 48 communities. Our array of services includes a spectrum of educational, therapeutic and community supports to allow those we serve to live full and productive lives in the community—to find their path. MyPath is proud to be a 100% employee owned company (ESOP). At MyPath our caregivers are also our owners!