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 - mostly in the afternoon 4-7pm or 5-8pm
About the Position:
We are seeking a compassionate, patient, and reliable support professional to provide 1:1 care for a bright and energetic neurodivergent child. This position focuses on supporting them with activities of daily living (ADLs), promoting speech and communication skills, and implementing behavioral strategies to help him thrive in his home and community environments. The individual enjoys swimming and trips to the library.
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: $16.00 - $18.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
Salary : $16 - $18