What are the responsibilities and job description for the Direct Support Professional position at The Arc of NC?
Job Title: Direct Support Professional
Location: Lenoir, NC
Position Type: up to 15 hours a week - Mondays - Fridays, 4:30pm - 7:30pm
About the Position:
We are seeking a compassionate, dependable, and engaging support professional to work one-on-one with an amazing 10-year-old boy with autism in his home and community settings. He is non-speaking and communicates using an AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) device. He is bright, active, and enjoys movement-based activities such as swinging, jumping on trampolines, and exploring age-appropriate recreational opportunities.
The ideal candidate will provide support with daily routines and activities of daily living (ADLs), foster communication development through consistent use of his communication device, and implement individualized behavioral and safety supports. Due to Pica-related safety concerns, attentive supervision and strong awareness of environmental safety are essential.
This role is perfect for someone who is patient, energetic, and passionate about helping children build independence, confidence, and life skills. Successful candidates will be comfortable engaging in play-based learning, supporting positive behavior strategies, and creating meaningful opportunities for communication, social interaction, and community participation.
Every day brings new opportunities to make a lasting impact while building a rewarding relationship with a child who thrives with consistency, encouragement, and genuine connection.
Responsibilities:
- Provide direct support with ADLs, including feeding, dressing, toileting, and hygiene.
- Encourage and model communication and social interaction through play-based learning and speech-supportive strategies.
- Implement behavioral support strategies to help with emotional regulation and reduce challenging behaviors.
- Collaborate with parents and therapy providers (speech, OT, ABA, etc.) to ensure consistency and carryover of skills.
- Create a safe, structured, and nurturing environment.
- Document progress and communicate regularly with caregivers.
Qualifications:
- Experience working with young children, especially children with autism or other developmental disabilities.
- Knowledge of basic speech support techniques and behavioral strategies is preferred.
- Ability to follow structured routines and implement therapy recommendations.
- CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).
- Background check required.
- Preferred: Early childhood education, special education, or related field experience.
Schedule & Compensation:
- Competitive pay based on experience.
Ideal Candidate:
You are patient, dependable, and enjoy working with children. You are eager to learn strategies from therapists and parents to help a child meet his developmental milestones. A positive, playful approach is essential.
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: $18.50 per hour
Work Location: In person
Salary : $19