Make a difference every day as a Direct Support Professional

PossAbilities is the premier organization serving people with developmental disabilities in Southeastern Minnesota. We provide day services focused on person-centered supports in our center and home-based programs. Our leaders and staff members create opportunities to promote independence and so all can contribute and connect with community.

“I love that I come in every single day not feeling like I’m going to work,
but feeling like I'm going to have fun with my friends. I love that I feel
like I’m making a difference in somebody’s life every single day.” –Aly

Job Summary – Find your purpose and passion

The role of the Employment Services Direct Support Professional (DSP) is to support individuals with job skill development and work activities. The Employment Services Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides this assistance in accordance with agency best practice and current federal, state, and local standards, guidelines and regulations governing the agency, and as directed by the Employment Services Program Director. Starting wage is $18 per hour, based on experience. Typical working hours are Monday-Friday, 7:30am – 3:30pm.

Amazing Benefits – We care about your well-being

• 100% paid Medical insurance premiums for full-time employees; spouse 81%; family 72%
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Short-term disability and long-term disability
• Company paid life insurance for full-time employees
• 403(b) retirement plan with a 3% employer match following the first year of employment
• 4 weeks of Paid Time Off (PTO) annually
• 7 paid holidays and 1 floating holiday

Job Responsibilities – Be part of an extraordinary supportive community

• Enjoy working as part of a team, and independently to provide innovative, person-centered supports and services geared to each individual’s goals
• Model the Agency Mission, Vision, and values in all interactions
• Must be able to work independently with individuals with barriers to employment and as part of a team in order to provide innovative, person-centered supports and services geared to each individuals goals
• Complete and maintain required documents for services provided including but not limited to; daily documentation of activities, Individual Abuse Prevention plans, Individual Program plans and vocational outcomes
• Mentor and support clients to increase independence in their work environment
• Model appropriate behavior and interactions in a professional environment
• Assure the health and safety of every client
• Assess each individuals’ interests to determine appropriate experiences in consultation with the individual’s team
• Comply with applicable agency, federal, and state regulations
• Assist with cleaning
• Must be able to transport clients
• Learn how to document services provided, such as daily activities, Individual Abuse Prevention plans, Individual Program plans and assessments
• Other reasonable, related duties as assigned by the supervisor or other management staff

Job Requirements – We set you up for success with hands-on training

• High School Diploma/GED or certification in Human Services or field related work
• Successful completion of the Department of Human Services Background Study
• Valid driver’s license, and successful completion of a driving record check and proof of automobile insurance
• Able to adapt to and respect each individual’s needs and preferences
• Experience with diverse populations such as black, indigenous and people of color (BIPOC)
• Experience working with persons who have often been marginalized in the community and who experience barriers, such as persons with mental health challenges and persons experiencing homelessness (preferred)
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to multi-task
• Effective written and oral communication skills
• Computer proficiency including MS Office, spreadsheets, and word processing systems
• Knowledge of the person-centered planning process and the ability to effectively implement the process for the benefit of each program client
• Must be outgoing, have a positive, pleasant attitude and demeanor
• Able to lift 30 pounds
• Full COVID-19 vaccination required*

PossAbilities is an AA/EEO employer, and considers all applicants without regard to race, marital status, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability or any other characteristic protected by law.

*As a condition of employment at PossAbilities, staff are required to be fully vaccinated from COVID-19. Employees are considered fully vaccinated two weeks after completing primary vaccination with a COVID-19 vaccine, unless you are legally entitled to a reasonable accommodation because of a medical reason, or conflict with a sincerely held religious belief. Accommodations will be considered on a case by case basis. However, in no event will an exemption be granted in circumstances where it would cause PossAbilities undue hardship or pose a direct threat to the health and safety of others. Undue hardship and a direct threat to the health and safety of others can include the risk of spreading COVID-19 to others including fellow PossAbilities employees, clients, customers, or their families.