Direct Support Professional - Specialized Services, On Call 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.

Under the direction of the Shared Living Program Coordinator, the On‑Call DSP - Specialized Services offers individualized support to a person with an intellectual disability or Autism Spectrum Disorder living in the community. This on‑call position provides coverage as needed and may work in settings such as the Battelle Crisis Stabilization House, an independent apartment, hotel/motel, or Airbnb. While on shift, the provider offers direct support and supervision to ensure safety and stability.

Provides support in a respectful, friendly, and professional manner that honors individual choice. Responsibilities while on shift include:

• Engaging the individual in conversation and preferred activities
• Offering guidance, companionship, emotional support, and supervision for safety
• Following Specialized Services regulations and the individual’s treatment plan during the shift
• Supporting the individual in accessing community resources and participating in activities as appropriate
• Encouraging safe and appropriate community and social behavior through instruction, reminders, and role‑modeling
• Monitoring emotional and physical well‑being
• Administering medications as appropriate during the shift
• Assisting with personal care needs as required
• Accompanying the individual to scheduled appointments occurring during the shift
• Providing transportation to activities, community events, or appointments as needed
• Communicating and collaborating with on‑call clinical staff if mental health needs arise

On‑call staff will be trained in safety planning for community outings, Vermont public safety best practices, and supporting adherence to court conditions of release and/or ACT 248 orders when applicable.

• Collects data as required by the individual’s ISA and behavior support plans during assigned hours
• Completes required agency documentation for each shift, including accurate timesheets, expense forms, and shift notes submitted in a timely manner

• Shares necessary shift-related information with other staff and team members in a professional and confidential manner
• Communicates observations or concerns that arise during the shift to the appropriate supervisor or on‑call contact
• Participates in brief hand‑off discussions as needed to ensure continuity of support during on‑call coverage

EDUCATIONAL/EXPERIENCE/CREDENTIAL REQUIREMENTS:
High School Diploma or Equivalent. Relevant experience in human services field preferred.

LICENSE REQUIRED:
Valid Driver’s License