What are the responsibilities and job description for the Direct Care Staff for Autism Adult Day Program On A Ranch position at Opportunity Acres?
Direct Care Staff Partner - Ranch Program
Direct Care Program | Shingle Springs, CA
Pay Info: From $17.50/hour (part-time, full-time)
Join a team that changes lives every day.
At Opportunity Acres, we believe in creating meaningful opportunities for individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities through a unique ranch-based program. Located on a 56-acre working ranch, we combine animal care, agriculture, life skills training, and community integration to support independence, growth, and purpose.
We are seeking compassionate, reliable, and motivated Direct Care Staff Partners to support adults in our Adult Day Program. This is a hands-on role working outdoors alongside individuals as they care for animals, maintain the ranch environment, and participate in structured learning and recreational activities. No prior experience in special needs services is required—training is provided.
Position Summary
The Direct Support Professional Partner provides supervision, instruction, and behavioral support to program participants under the guidance of the Clinical Behavior Consultant. Staff help implement individualized instructional plans, activity schedules, and behavior intervention plans while fostering independence, engagement, and safety in a ranch setting.
QualificationsRequired
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- High school diploma or equivalent (college coursework in Psychology, Education preferred)
- Clean DMV driving record
- Ability to pass DOJ and FBI background clearance
- Negative TB test
- Ability to work outdoors in varying terrain and physical conditions
Physical Requirements
- Ability to walk long distances on uneven ground
- Ability to lift, carry, and move 25–50 pounds
- Ability to remain active throughout the workday in an outdoor ranch environment
Pre-Employment Requirements
- Criminal background clearance (DOJ/FBI)
- DMV record clearance
- TB test clearance
- Paid training in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) (26–30 hours initial training)
- Completion of competency assessments within first 2 weeks of hire
- Ongoing quarterly field competency evaluations during first year
What You’ll Do
- Provide supervision, instruction, and guidance to participants per clinical directives
- Support daily work routines including animal care, ranch maintenance, gardening, and construction tasks
- Facilitate participation in meals, breaks, and recreational activities
- Support adaptive skill development (e.g., hygiene, meal preparation, daily living skills)
- Implement behavior intervention plans and collect behavioral data
- Record participant progress and maintain accurate documentation
- Communicate ongoing progress, challenges, and needs with clinical staff
- Assist with transportation of participants (mileage reimbursement provided)
- Perform additional duties as assigned
Compensation
- $17.50/hour starting pay
- Benefits include:
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage
- Paid time off (PTO)
- Paid holidays (plus additional guaranteed holidays off)
- Mileage reimbursement for transportation duties
- Paid training and ongoing professional development
- Supportive clinical supervision and structured training environment
Why Opportunity Acres?
At Opportunity Acres, you’ll join a mission-driven team dedicated to improving independence, dignity, and quality of life for individuals with developmental disabilities. This is a hands-on, outdoor role where your work directly contributes to meaningful daily outcomes for the people you support.
Apply Today and Help Change Lives.
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time
Pay: From $17.50 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
- Do you have any experience working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities? If yes, please briefly explain.
Education:
- High school or equivalent (Preferred)
License/Certification:
- Driver's License (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $18