Residential Direct Support Professional - SIGN ON BONUS - full-time, part-time, or per diem

Description

** Sign-On Bonus: New hires who begin employment between October 1, 2026, and November 18, 2026, are eligible for a sign-on bonus of $1,000 for full-time positions, $750 for part-time positions, or $500 for per diem positions. One-half of the applicable bonus will be paid in the December 18, 2026, paycheck, with the remaining half paid after six months of employment. All bonus payments are contingent upon the employee remaining actively employed and in good standing with the organization at the time each payment is due. 

Cerebral Palsy Association of the North Country is seeking compassionate, dependable individuals to join our Residential Services team as Direct Support Professionals (DSPs). DSPs support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in home settings by providing encouragement, personal care, supervision, skill-building, and community involvement to help individuals live safe, meaningful, and independent lives.

No prior experience is required — paid training is provided. Experience in caregiving, healthcare, human services, or direct care is helpful, but we are willing to train the right candidate. We strive to place employees in locations close to home whenever possible to help reduce transportation challenges and support work-life balance.

Current Openings

We are currently hiring for our houses in the Canton, Potsdam, Colton, Norwood, Massena, and Edwardsville areas for: 

• Full-time positions (37.5 – 40 hours/week)
• Part-time positions (30 – 37 hours/week)
• Day, evening, overnight, and variable shifts
• Per diem opportunities

REPORTS TO: House Manager
PAY RATE: $18.90/hour (paid biweekly)

What You’ll Do

As a DSP, you will:

• Support individuals with daily living activities, personal care, and routines
• Assist with meals, housekeeping, medication administration, and maintaining a safe home environment
• Encourage participation in community, recreational, educational, and social activities
• Transport and accompany individuals to appointments and activities as needed
• Complete documentation and communicate effectively with team members and supervisors
• Provide emotional support, encouragement, advocacy, and positive relationship-building
• Work flexible schedules that may include evenings, overnights, weekends, holidays, and emergency coverage when needed

Paid Training & Career Growth

Cerebral Palsy Association of the North Country provides paid orientation and training, including Medication Certification training. Employees may also have opportunities to earn free college credits, nationally recognized DSP certifications, and additional professional development through SUNY and OPWDD-supported programs.

Benefits

Eligible employees may receive access to excellent, affordable benefits, including:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Life insurance and disability coverage
• 401(k) with employer matching
• Paid vacation, sick, personal, and holiday time
• Educational and professional development opportunities

Requirements

Qualifications

• High School Diploma, GED, or DSP certification required
• Valid NYS Driver’s License with at least two years of driving experience required
• Reliable transportation required
• Ability to lift, assist, and support individuals as needed
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Strong communication, reliability, and professionalism
• Must successfully complete required Agency and OPWDD trainings