Direct Support Professional (Residential)

About We Do Life… Together

We Do Life…Together (WDLT), a division of ICES, Inc., has been transforming lives in Connecticut since 1998. We support individuals with cognitive disorders, mental illness, and those on the autistic spectrum. Our caring human service professionals focus on the individuals’ personal strengths to make the most of valuable community resources while promoting respect and dignity of all. We serve individuals in private residences, respite facilities, emergency placements, community work sites, training centers, supervised living arrangements, and our own state-licensed group homes.

We offer a comprehensive continuum of services, including residential, vocational, clinical, community habilitation, and in-home support, all grounded in person-centered care. Our team works alongside each individual to build real-world independence, from securing meaningful community employment to developing daily living skills and accessing the resources they need to thrive.

WDLT collaborates with the Department of Developmental Services, the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, and other community partners. When you join WDLT, you are joining a team that believes in doing this work together, for each other and for the people we serve.

Why This Role Matters

Direct Support Professionals are the heart of everything we do at WDLT. As a DSP, you will be a trusted, skilled presence in either our Residential or Vocational program, working directly with our individuals, and making an immediate difference in their lives.

This is a role for someone who is energized by being patient, caring, and helpful, and for someone who builds trust quickly. You will work directly with the individuals we support, helping them succeed in our programs, growing their independence, and achieving meaningful goals. You will report to a Residential or Vocational Manager and will have clear opportunities to increase your responsibilities and pay, as well as grow your career at WDLT.

If you believe everyone deserves the chance to do their best work and live their best life, we want to meet you.

What You’ll Do Individuals’ Direct Care and Oversight

• Provide high-quality, consistent support to the individuals in our care, potentially in multiple program locations, always in alignment with each person’s individualized plan.

• Support individuals across a range of daily activities, including job skills development, vocational training, daily living tasks, community participation, and medical and behavioral appointments.

• Maintain and update individuals’ plans in accordance with state and agency requirements.

• Ensure program environments are clean, safe, and welcoming.

• Provide safe transportation for individuals using agency vehicles; complete all required vehicle documentation accurately and on time.

• Administer medications and implement delegated nursing responsibilities as ordered by licensed medical personnel (Med Certification required within the first 6 months).

Adaptability and Team Collaboration

• Move fluidly across WDLT Program sites based on daily and weekly program needs.

• Quickly acclimate to different teams, routines, participant needs, and location cultures, becoming a reliable, valued presence wherever you are assigned.

• Communicate proactively with management about individual progress, successes, and any concerns.

• Collaborate actively with fellow DSPs and the broader administrative team, sharing insights and best practices.

• Participate as a strong contributing member of each individual’s Interdisciplinary Team (IDT), supporting the development and implementation of individualized plans.

Program and Organizational Contribution

• Identify and contribute to projects and initiatives that advance the quality of care and the long-term growth of the individuals we serve.

• Develop familiarity with how each WDLT department functions and its connection to individual outcomes.

• Model a professional, solution-oriented approach in every interaction.

• Other duties as assigned.

What We Offer

• Competitive hourly pay that reflects your experience and grows with your performance.

• Clear pathways for advancement. DSPs are well-positioned for increased responsibilities and promotion.

• Paid, structured training and certification support (CPR, PMT, DDS Med Certification, and more).

• A mission-driven culture where your work makes a visible, meaningful difference every day.

• A collaborative team environment that values flexibility, initiative, and genuine care.

• The opportunity to build broad experience across multiple programs and settings making you a more skilled, versatile professional.

Qualifications

Required Trainings and Certifications

WDLT provides training and support to help you meet all certification requirements. The following must be maintained throughout employment and includes, but is not limited to:

• DDS Medication Administration Certification (required within first 6 months of employment)

• CPR Certification

• Physical & Psychological Management Training (PMT)

• Human Rights and Abuse/Neglect Training

• Other DDS Mandated Annual Training

• Attendance at mandatory staff meetings

What You Bring

• A genuine commitment to the dignity, respect, and growth of the individuals you support

• Flexibility and adaptability. You are comfortable with varied schedules, locations, and assignments that may be confirmed at the start of a shift.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.

• Reliability, accountability, and a team-first mindset.

• Problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently when needed.

• Proficiency with smartphones, tablets, and computers.

Physical and Other Requirements

This role includes physical activity. You should be able to:

• Stand, walk, and sit for extended periods.

• Occasionally lift up to 25 pounds.

• Work outdoors as program activities require.

This is an essential staff position. The individuals we support depend on you being present and prepared. You also must:

• Have a high school diploma or GED required; knowledge of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities is a plus.

• Be at least 18 years old.

• Have a valid driver’s license and reliable personal vehicle required for travel between program locations.