Direct Support Professional - SILP at United Counseling Services – Bennington, Vermont

Why Join UCS:

For over 65 years, UCS has been providing exceptional and thoughtful care to individuals and families in our community through programs, services, and educational opportunities. Our staff includes positions such as administration, clinicians, nurses, teachers, case managers, psychiatrists, and direct support providers who work within our 15 facilities to support over 3,000 individuals annually. We are proud to be part of Vermont Care Partners, a network of sixteen agencies that provide mental health, substance use disorder, and developmental disability services and supports in every county in Vermont. We are looking for team players to join us in making a difference in the lives of others and building a stronger community.

UCS Offers Generous Benefits

• Competitive pay
• Generous paid time off
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement plan with employer match
• Employer paid life insurance
• Employer paid short term and long-term disability insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Career development opportunities
• Free clinical supervision towards licensure
• Loan repayment and tuition assistance program
• Award winning worksite wellness program
• An inclusive workplace supported by an active Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging committee.
• Rewarding experience making a difference in the community.

We believe a dynamic and inclusive workforce will strengthen our organization and enhance the services we provide. Therefore, it is our goal to hire a diverse workforce and cultivate a culture where our employees feel accepted and included, hold a valued place within our organization and are equally able to contribute to their fullest extent, assisting in fulfilling our mission of building a stronger community.

Join Our Team as a Supported Independent Living Specialist!

Make a real impact. Build meaningful relationships. Empower independence.

Are you passionate about helping others grow, thrive, and live their best lives? Do you enjoy hands-on, meaningful work that changes lives every day? If so, we’d love to meet you!

We are seeking a Supported Independent Living Specialist to support adults in our community as they build daily living skills, strengthen independence, and connect with the world around them. This is a dynamic role for someone who is compassionate, patient, energetic, and ready to make a difference.

Help individuals build the confidence and skills they need to live independently. You'll:

• Teach essential daily living skills in the home and out in the community
• Assist with health care needs, budgeting, cooking, shopping, home care, and personal care
• Role model and promote healthy relationships and appropriate boundaries
• Advocate for consumers during medical, dental, legal, and other appointments
• Monitor self‑medication administration with proficiency (as needed)
• Respond to consumer emergencies and provide emotional support

Be a champion for inclusion, engagement, and independence. You will:

• Advocate on behalf of consumers with families, peers, and community members
• Introduce individuals to community resources and help them learn to use them confidently
• Encourage participation in recreational and community activities
• Teach safety skills in all areas of home and community life
• Instruct and role model appropriate social behaviors and expectations
• Collaborate with the Supported Independent Living Program, Developmental Services, and UCS teams

Support each individual’s progress through accurate, timely documentation. You will:

• Submit daily timesheets with correct service codes in our electronic medical record system
• Request and organize documentation from outside providers and professionals
• Complete progress notes, monthly summaries, and all required paperwork
• Stay up to date on consumer goals and supports according to the ISA
• Attend staff meetings, supervision, agency/division meetings, and required trainings

You’ll be part of a mission-driven team committed to empowering individuals to live independently, safely, and confidently. Every day brings new opportunities to help someone take an important step toward personal success.

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
High School Diploma or equivalent. Relevant college courses preferred. Computer skills including e-mail usage.

LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS REQUIRED:
Valid Driver’s License