What are the responsibilities and job description for the Direct Support Associate position at The Arc of NC?
Direct Support Associate
Position Status: Part - Time
Location: Asheville, NC
Education Requirements: Candidate must have a High School Diploma, GED or equivalent.
Experience Requirements: Candidate must be a motivated team player, flexible, creative, dependable and reliable. Candidate must have related experience in providing direct supports but not preferred. Qualified applicants must be 18 years or older, have a current driver’s license, reliable transportation and are able to pass background check.
The Arc of NC is seeking a passionate, hardworking, self-motivated individual to support individuals with intellectual disabilities in the Asheville area. This is a part time position with a flexible schedule.
About the Role
We are seeking a dependable and caring mentor in the Black Mountain/Swannanoa area to support a bright, energetic young man with autism. This rewarding role involves providing safe and reliable transportation to and from home, supporting independence with skills like cooking, budgeting, and community navigation, and ensuring safety in all activities. You’ll enjoy engaging in fun outings such as arts and crafts, bowling, mini golf, swimming, and library visits while building a positive connection through patient communication with both the individual, who has some speech challenges, and his family. The ideal candidate is compassionate, reliable, and organized, with strong safety awareness and a willingness to encourage and mentor. Previous experience working with individuals with disabilities is helpful but not required, and training and support are available. Applicants must have a dependable vehicle and valid driver’s license. Hours are flexible and can be arranged based on mutual needs, making this a meaningful opportunity to make a lasting difference while enjoying fulfilling, hands-on work.
Key Responsibilities
- The Support Associate should have strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build a trusting relationship that balances predictability with the introduction of new experiences
- Experience supporting individuals with autism or similar neurodevelopmental conditions is preferred
- Candidate will be dependable, proactive, and committed to helping the individual build life skills, social confidence, and community belonging through consistent and person-centered support.
- Promote Community Integration: Encourage her participation in social, recreational, and community activities that align with her interests and strengths.
- Skill Development: Teach and reinforce life skills, coping mechanisms, and self-advocacy techniques tailored to her needs.
- Health and Safety: Maintain a safe and structured environment, proactively addressing potential risks and challenges
- Documentation: Accurately complete daily notes, progress reports, and other required documentation.
The Arc is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: $19.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
Salary : $19