Direct Care Provider - Weekend Respite Program

WHALE Respite Center is the first nonprofit respite care facility in Greeley, Colorado serving children with disabilities. At WHALE, we build inclusive communities where families who have children with delays and disabilities THRIVE through equal opportunities to live, learn, and play.

We believe every child deserves a safe, engaging, and inclusive environment designed to support their unique strengths and needs.

Position Summary

The Direct Care Provider plays a vital role at WHALE Respite Center by engaging and supervising children with developmental delays and disabilities ages 6 weeks to 18 years during weekend respite programming.

This position requires flexibility, as staffing needs may vary based on the number of children registered for a given weekend day. Direct Care Providers must be adaptable and prepared to work fluctuating hours depending on enrollment and staffing ratios.

Schedule & Availability

• Weekend programming only (Saturday and/or Sunday based on need)
• Must be flexible and available for weekend shifts as scheduled
• Staffing schedules may vary week to week depending on child enrollment
• Must attend required staff meetings and trainings as scheduled
• Occasional participation in special events or fundraising activities may be required

Key Responsibilities

• Engage and actively supervise children with developmental disabilities ages 6 weeks – 18 years
• Facilitate developmentally appropriate activities tailored to diverse abilities
• Learn and implement each child’s Person-Centered Care Plan, including behavior strategies, toileting routines, feeding techniques, dietary needs, sensory supports, and medication protocols
• Maintain appropriate staff-to-child ratios at all times
• Monitor children’s safety and well-being in classroom and activity settings
• Provide behavior support using approved de-escalation and positive guidance techniques
• Chart attendance, incidents, and required documentation accurately and timely
• Communicate professionally and compassionately with families during drop-off and pick-up
• Maintain confidentiality of all child and family information
• Assist with cleaning and maintaining a safe, organized, and sanitary environment
• Support team members to ensure smooth program operations
• Perform other duties as assigned

Working Conditions

• Ability to sit, stand, bend, kneel, lift, and actively engage with children for up to 8–10 hours
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
• Ability to support children with mobility needs
• Frequent movement throughout classrooms and activity areas
• Use of computers and electronic documentation systems

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years of age to work directly with PASA participants
• Must be at least 16 years of age to work directly with participants with other payor sources and help with other front desk tasks
• Experience working with children with disabilities strongly preferred
• CPR/First Aid certification required (or willingness to obtain within 3 months of hire)
• All required trainings completed at hire
• Must pass all applicable background checks at hire

Required Skills & Attributes

• Flexible and adaptable in a dynamic environment
• Comfortable working varying hours based on program enrollment
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Patient, compassionate, and solutions-oriented
• Strong understanding of inclusion and child development principles
• Ability to follow individualized care plans and behavior support strategies
• Reliable, punctual, and professional

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $18.00 - $20.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Paid training

Work Location: In person

Salary : $18 - $20