Advocates→
Direct Support Staff at Advocates in Natick, MA
Skills
Job Description
Minimum Education Required
High School Diploma/GED
Overview
Starting Rate: $18.50/hour
Schedule: Friday 9am-11pm, Saturday 9am-11pm
We’re looking for enthusiastic, compassionate, and motivated team players to provide meaningful support to individuals in a residential setting. If you’re ready to start—or grow! — your career in human services, this is a great opportunity to make a real impact every day.
As a Direct Support Staff, you’ll provide hands-on support, guidance, and encouragement to adults with developmental disabilities. This is an entry-level role with meaningful responsibilities and the chance to build lasting relationships. In this role, you’ll assist individuals with daily living activities, such as personal care, meals, routines and community outings – while helping them build skills and independence.
Direct support professionals at Advocates enjoy a supportive environment, opportunities for advancement, and a strong commitment to work-life balance.
Who We Are
At Advocates, we provide comprehensive services for people facing developmental, mental health, or other life challenges.
We’re a nonprofit, mission-driven organization with a person-centered approach, empowering the individuals we support to make choices, build independence, and live full, meaningful lives. Our work is rooted in respect, compassion, and inclusion, and we envision a world where individual differences are appreciated and celebrated.
At Advocates, we value the ideas, experiences, and contributions of employees and are committed to fostering a supportive, welcoming culture where everyone can grow and thrive.
Responsibilities
Provide daily support at home and in the community
Help plan and implement daily routines and activities
Support individuals in setting and achieving person-centered goals
Encourage participation in community and social opportunities
Support household cleaning and maintenance tasks
Document observations, progress, and any concerns
Implement established treatment and support plans
Provide physical intervention in crisis situations when necessary
Maintain required certifications (CPR/First Aid, MAP, SOLVE, HR/DPPC)
Ensure individuals are treated with dignity, respect, and in alignment with Human Rights policies
Qualifications
High school diploma or equivalent required
Experience in human services or with similar populations preferred
Strong interpersonal, communication, and coaching skills
Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented, person-centered environment
Basic computer skills required
Valid driver’s license, reliable vehicle, and willingness to transport individuals
Commitment to supporting culturally diverse populations
Advocates is committed to cultivating a diverse and welcoming community where everyone feels respected and valued. Advocates fosters a culture of inclusion that celebrates and promotes diversity along multiple dimensions, including race, ethnicity, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, partnered status, age, national origin, socioeconomic status, religion, ability, culture, and experience.
We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants. If you require a reasonable accommodation during the application, interview or hiring process, please contact Human Resources.