Direct Support Professional (DSP) - Residential Services - Full-time/Part-time - Massena, Norwood, Potsdam areas

Description

** Please note: We will be conducting open interviews for DSP roles at the Community Health Center of the North Country, located at 4 Commerce Lane in Canton, on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM. **

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 in the Massena, Norwood, and Potsdam 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

Additional opportunities may also be available in Canton, Potsdam, Massena, Colton, and Edwardsville (Hammond) locations. Feel free to apply to this posting, and our HR team will be sure to screen your application based on your preferences.

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

Sign-On Bonus

Sign-on bonuses are available for DSP positions:

• $500 – Per diem
• $750 – Part-time
• $1,000 – Full-time

Bonuses are paid in four equal installments at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months of employment.

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