What are the responsibilities and job description for the Community Supports Specialist position at The Arc of the South Shore, Inc.?
Community Supports Specialist
Opportunity Type: Full-Time
Office Location: South Shore, MA (Home-Based and Community-Based Services)
Pay Range: $21.00 - $27.00 per hour*
Final offers are based on experience, qualifications, skill set, and location.
About The Arc of the South Shore
The Arc of the South Shore is proud to celebrate 75 years of advocacy and impact. Since 1951, we've partnered with individuals with disabilities and their families to build inclusive communities and support meaningful, independent lives.
Join us during this milestone year and become part of a mission-driven organization known for compassion, teamwork, and purpose.
About the Role
The Arc of the South Shore is seeking a Community Supports Specialist to provide individualized support to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout the South Shore. Funded by the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services (DDS), this role helps individuals achieve personal goals, increase independence, and actively participate in their communities.
This position is primarily home- and community-based and offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact by supporting individuals in building skills, accessing resources, developing relationships, and living fulfilling lives. The ideal candidate is compassionate, organized, self-motivated, and comfortable working independently while collaborating with families, providers, and community partners.
What You'll Do
Direct Support & Community Inclusion
- Provide person-centered support in accordance with Individual Service Plans (ISPs).
- Assist individuals in developing daily living and independent living skills, including budgeting, meal preparation, shopping, transportation, health management, and household maintenance.
- Promote self-determination, dignity, informed choice, safety, and overall well-being.
- Support participation in community, recreational, educational, and social activities.
- Encourage positive social interactions, relationship building, and community engagement.
Service Coordination & Advocacy
- Develop, implement, and monitor ISP goals in partnership with individuals, families, and team members.
- Coordinate appointments, transportation, and access to medical, behavioral health, recreational, educational, and community resources.
- Participate in ISP meetings, team meetings, and other required planning sessions.
- Maintain regular communication with individuals, families, guardians, DDS representatives, service providers, and community partners.
Documentation & Program Compliance
- Maintain accurate and timely documentation, reports, service records, and expense tracking in compliance with DDS and agency requirements.
- Monitor home and community environments to support health, safety, and wellness.
- Participate in staff meetings, required trainings, and professional development activities.
- Perform other duties as assigned to support program operations and individual needs.
What We're Looking For
Required Qualifications
- Minimum of three years of experience supporting individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities.
- High School Diploma or GED.
- Valid driver's license with a satisfactory driving record.
- Reliable, insured vehicle and willingness to transport individuals as required.
- Current First Aid and CPR certification (training available through The Arc).
- Successful completion of CORI and other required background checks.
- Ability to work independently in community and home-based settings.
- Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
Preferred Qualifications
- Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Human Services, Psychology, Social Work, Special Education, or a related field.
- Experience supporting individuals with behavioral and/or physical support needs.
- Experience coordinating community services and resources.
- Staff supporting the Abington family must be comfortable driving a wheelchair-accessible van.
- Demonstrated ability to effectively support individuals and families from diverse backgrounds.
Why This Role Matters
As a Community Supports Specialist, you help individuals build independence, strengthen community connections, and achieve personal goals that enhance their quality of life. Your support empowers people to access opportunities, develop skills, and participate fully in their communities while providing families with trusted partnership and guidance. Every day, you'll make a meaningful difference in someone's ability to live a more independent and fulfilling life.
Benefits (30 Hours/Week)
- Health & dental insurance (up to 80% employer-paid)
- Vision insurance (100% employer-paid)
- Group life insurance & long-term disability
- Paid time off, including 13 holidays
- 403(b) retirement savings plan
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Employee referral program
...and a supportive workplace where your work truly matters.
Schedule
- 40 hours per week
- Generally, Monday through Friday
- Flexible scheduling based on individual and family needs
- Occasional evening and weekend hours may be required
Apply Today
Ready to make a difference while building a meaningful career?
Apply today on Indeed and join The Arc of the South Shore as we celebrate 75 years of advocacy, inclusion, and community impact.
Pay: $21.00 - $27.00 per hour
Expected hours: 40.0 per week
Benefits:
- 403(b)
- Dental insurance
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Mileage reimbursement
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
Salary : $21 - $27