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, Mondays-Thursday 2pm-6pm, Fridays
Location: Candler, NC
Education Requirements: Candidate must have a High School Diploma, GED or equivalent.
Experience Requirements: Candidate must have related experience in providing direct supports. Qualified applicants must be 18 years or older, have a current driver’s license, reliable transportation and are able to pass background check.
Join The Arc of North Carolina and turn your compassion into a career that truly matters. We are seeking a friendly, motivated Direct Support Professional in Candler, NC, to provide meaningful, one-on-one support for an engaging young neurodivergent woman. This position is ideal for a patient, community-minded caregiver who is excited to help her grow her independence while sharing in the activities she loves - whether that’s eating out at local spots, cheering during a baseball game, or catching up on the local news on WLOS. As her DSP, you will act as a vital partner and advocate, facilitating fun community outings and helping her develop daily life skills with confidence. If you are looking for a rewarding, flexible role where you can turn local adventures and shared interests into true empowerment, we would love to have you join her team.
What Makes This Opportunity Exciting?
- Make a Tangible Difference: You aren’t just "working a shift" - you are facilitating a person’s presence in their community and expanding their opportunities for connection.
- Holistic Growth: You will develop a deep understanding of unique disabilities and learn adaptive strategies to teach life skills at home and in the community.
- Flexible Engagement: Shifts range from part-time to full-time, and while we support multiple individuals, you do not necessarily need to work with more than one person to make an impact.
- Supportive Environment: You will work under the direct supervision of a Supports Manager and join an agency that values professional, positive interaction and cultural respect.
Qualifications
- Education: High school diploma or GED required.
- Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills are essential for both interpersonal interaction and documentation.
- Technical Proficiency: Must possess strong computer skills and have access to an electronic device (smartphone, laptop, etc.) to enter data into electronic health records.
- Reliability: Must be a self-starter with stable work behaviors and a valid driver's license with current automobile insurance.
- Physical Requirements: Ability to sit or drive for extended periods and the capacity to carry materials between 5 and 30 pounds.
- Training: Completion of core competencies required by the State of North Carolina and The Arc of NC.
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: Up to $19.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
Salary : $19