Direct Care Specialist (Full-Time)
Challenge Enterprises of North Florida, Inc.

Location: Group Home- Austrian Court
Job Type: Full-Time (36-40 hours per week)
Pay Rate: $15.00 - $16.50 per hour
Benefits: Employee-Paid Benefits — Health, Dental, Vision, and 403(b) Retirement Plan
Schedule: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday 2 PM-11 PM

Position Overview

Challenge Enterprises of North Florida, Inc. is looking for caring and reliable Residential Trainers to join our team. In this role, you will provide direct support, supervision, and training to individuals with developmental disabilities living in a group home setting. Residential Trainers play a key role in supporting individuals to achieve their Support Plan (SP) goals by following established Implementation Plan (IP) strategies.

This position is responsible for ensuring the health, safety, dignity, and overall well-being of individuals in the home while promoting independence and community involvement. Residential Trainers assist with daily living activities, medication administration, transportation, documentation, and life skills development. This role requires patience, strong communication skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to person-centered care.

What You’ll Do

Direct Care & Daily Living Support

• Assist individuals with activities of daily living (ADLs), including grooming, bathing, dressing, hygiene, and meal preparation
• Support instrumental daily living skills such as cooking, cleaning, laundry, grocery shopping, and money management
• Promote independence, dignity, and personal choice in all aspects of care
• Ensure individuals’ personal appearance and environment reflect respect and quality of life

Health, Safety & Supervision

• Provide supervision to ensure the health and safety of individuals in the home and community
• Follow all Implementation Plan (IP) strategies to support individual goals
• Monitor emergency supplies and home safety standards
• Respond appropriately to health, safety, and behavioral concerns and report issues promptly

Medication & Documentation

• Administer medications according to agency policy and approved systems
• Accurately document medication administration and related health information
• Complete daily case notes, progress reports, and documentation using approved systems (e.g., Therap)
• Complete incident reports and medication error reports as required

Community Engagement & Transportation

• Transport and accompany individuals to community outings, appointments, and special events
• Support community integration and participation in meaningful activities
• Promote positive social interaction and inclusion

Communication & Team Support

• Communicate regularly with Group Home Supervisors or designees regarding individual needs, concerns, and progress
• Monitor and respond to assigned group home email accounts
• Assist with financial, medical, and general recordkeeping as directed
• Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and new hire orientation
• Assist in training new staff members as needed

Operational Responsibilities

• Assist with meal planning, food storage, and grocery shopping
• Follow agency vehicle policies and transportation procedures
• Maintain accurate timekeeping and attendance records
• Follow all Challenge Enterprises policies, procedures, and code of conduct
• Perform additional duties as assigned to meet agency needs

What We’re Looking For

We are seeking individuals who are patient, compassionate, and committed to supporting individuals with disabilities in a respectful and empowering environment. The ideal candidate values teamwork, consistency, safety, and person-centered care.

Ideal Skills & Traits

• Compassionate, patient, and respectful when supporting individuals with disabilities
• Strong communication skills (verbal and written)
• Ability to follow structured plans and procedures consistently
• Detail-oriented with strong documentation skills
• Reliable, responsible, and able to work independently and as part of a team
• Strong time management and organizational skills
• Ability to remain calm and professional in challenging situations
• Flexible and willing to work varied shifts, including weekends and overnights
• Commitment to confidentiality and professional conduct

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Must meet state background check requirements
• Valid Florida Driver’s License with a clean 3-year driving record
• High school diploma or GED required
• At least 1 year of experience in a medical, psychiatric, nursing home, childcare setting, or working with individuals with developmental disabilities
  • OR completion of 30 semester hours / 45 quarter hours of college, vocational, or technical training in lieu of experience
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to follow written and oral instructions
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team
• Physical ability to stand, bend, stoop, and climb stairs for extended periods

Physical Requirements

This position requires regular standing, walking, bending, stooping, and lifting as part of providing direct care and support. The ability to perform physical assistance with daily living tasks is required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Why Join Challenge Enterprises?

At Challenge Enterprises, we believe in the power of people and possibilities. Our Residential Trainers play a vital role in helping individuals with disabilities live safe, meaningful, and independent lives. If you are looking for rewarding work where you can make a real difference every day, we encourage you to apply.

Challenge Enterprises of North Florida, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Salary : $15 - $17