JOB DESCRIPTION
We are seeking a Direct Support Professional (DSP) to provide one-on-one, person-centered support to a teenage boy (15) with Autism (level 1) in the home and community. This role focuses on mentorship, independence, social development, emotional regulation, and meaningful community engagement. Services are provided after school and/ or on weekends and are guided by an approved Staff Action Plan (SAP) and Community Habilitation goals.
The individual supported enjoys gaming, animals, arts & crafts, planting, soccer, swimming, gymnastics, golf, pop & holiday music, comedy, magic, creative hands-on activities, and community outings. The ideal candidate is patient, active, engaging, creative, dependable, and able to build positive mentoring relationships.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:
- Provide direct support, supervision, mentorship and companionship
- Assist with skill acquisition and skill retention for Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs), and independent living skills
- Foster and promote community inclusion, integration, peer engagement, and social interaction through hobbies & interests, community-based activities and outings
- Support emotional regulation, communication, socialization, and independence
- Maintain positive engagement within a safe, respectful, and supportive environment
- Perform all other related tasks and duties consistent with the role
THIS ROLE IS A GOOD FIT IF YOU:
- Have shared interests or hobbies, ideally including gaming, fitness, music, technology, creative arts, or animals
- Are animated, creative, flexible, adaptable, patient, and resourceful
- Enjoy mentoring teens and active community engagement
- Demonstrate strong organization, communication, and problem-solving skills
- Value dignity, autonomy, and strengths-based support
- The individual supported tends to respond best to positive male mentorship and shared peer-style engagement
QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS:
Required
- New York City resident
- Minimum 1 year or experience working with children with Autism and/or Developmental Disabilities
- Minimum 1 year of experience working with children or adolescents
- Ability to work independently and reliably in home and community settings
Education
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in one of the following fields or a related discipline:
- Special Education
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Human Services
- Social Work
- ABA or Autism Studies
- Occupational Therapy
- Speech-Language Pathology
- Child Development
- Counseling or Mental Health
- Therapeutic Recreation
- Nursing
Preferred
- Bilingual
- Driver’s permit or driver’s license
- Experience with OPWDD and/or Community Habilitation services
- Ability to navigate NYC and utilize public transportation independently
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
Please submit:
- Resume
- Brief cover letter including: After-school and/ or weekend availability and interests, hobbies, talents, and languages spoken
- Selected candidates will complete onboarding and clearance through HASC Center. Onboarding is completed online; fingerprinting is required at no cost to the applicant and will require an in-person appointment.
**IMPORTANT NOTICE:
Please do not apply if you do not meet the minimum qualifications and skills. Applications that do not meet these criteria will not be considered.
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: $35.00 per hour
Education:
Experience:
- Autism: 1 year (Required)
Language:
- English (Preferred)
- Spanish (Preferred)
- Other languages (specify in cover letter) (Preferred)
License/Certification:
- Driver's License (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
