DIRECT CARE WORKER - PRTF & DDS CLA PROGRAM

🌟 Direct Care Worker – PRTF & DDS CLA Program

📍 Hamden, CT | 🕒 Full-Time, Part-Time | Non-Exempt

Make a Positive Impact on Youth and Families

The Children’s Center of Hamden is seeking compassionate Direct Care Workers to support youth in our PRTF (Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facility) and DDS CLA (Department of Developmental Services, Community Living Arrangement) programs. In this role, you’ll help ensure the safety, well-being, and personal growth of the individuals you serve by supervising daily routines, guiding social and recreational activities, and supporting emotional and behavioral development. You’ll work closely with treatment teams, families, and other staff to provide consistent, trauma-informed care and create a positive, structured environment that promotes success and resilience.

Why Join Us?

At The Children’s Center of Hamden, you’ll be part of a collaborative, mission-driven team where every Direct Care Worker is valued and supported. We provide the tools, training, and guidance you need to succeed in your role, make a meaningful impact on youth, and grow in your career.

🏥 Comprehensive Benefits – Medical, dental, vision, life, disability, EAP, and wellness programs. On one medical plan option, The Children’s Center covers 92% of the employee premium and contributes to Health Savings Accounts (HSAs).

🏖️ Generous Paid Time Off – Vacation, sick, personal days, and paid holidays.

💼 Retirement & Long-Term Security – 401(k) plan with employer contributions to help you save for the future.

📚 Professional Growth & Development – Interest-free tuition loans, ongoing CEU-accredited training, and opportunities for career advancement.

💙 Supportive, Mission-Driven Culture – Join a collaborative team where your work truly makes a difference for youth and families.

What You’ll Do

As Direct Care Worker, you will:

• Supervise individuals in daily routines, recreational activities, and educational or therapeutic programming.
• Support emotional, social, academic, and behavioral development using trauma-informed care principles.
• Provide crisis prevention, intervention, and counseling as needed, including monitoring individuals in crisis situations.
• Assist with food service, housekeeping, and program-specific duties, while teaching independent living skills.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation, including behavior notes, incident reports, and administrative records.
• Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and workshops; utilize supervision effectively.
• Maintain awareness and compliance with agency policies, procedures, and safety protocols.
• Demonstrate cultural sensitivity, uphold professional boundaries, and contribute to a safe and respectful environment.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support program success.

What We’re Looking For

• BA/BS in Human Services preferred; may be required for some programs.
• Valid Driver's License with clean driving record
• 2 years of experience in human services or direct care preferred
• Knowledge of direct care, teaching methods, and behavioral support strategies
• Ability to understand the challenges of individuals served, assess needs, and resolve conflicts effectively.
• Strong ability to maintain safety, discipline, and structure.
• Demonstrated compassion, patience, and flexibility in working with youth with diverse needs.

Physical & Work Environment Requirements

• Ability to perform light to moderate lifting, standing, walking, bending, and other physical tasks as needed.
• Potential exposure to bodily fluids and other environmental hazards in residential, community, and school-based settings.

Join Our Team

If you’re passionate about providing hands-on support and guidance to individuals in need and want to make a meaningful difference every day, we want to hear from you. Apply now and help us create safe, supportive environments that foster growth, resilience, and success.

Employment Requirements

Employment is contingent upon a conditional offer and successful completion of required pre-employment screenings in accordance with Connecticut and applicable federal law, which may include: a drug screen per CGS § 31-51t (4-panel, no THC), background checks (DCF Registry, CT State Police criminal history, DDS eligibility where applicable, and CT MVR where applicable), and role-required medical clearance/physical including TB testing.

📌 The Children’s Center of Hamden is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.