HCBS Advanced Direct Support Professional - 3 day work week
Job Description
Job DescriptionDirect Support Professional III - Behavioral Support Specialist
Advanced Direct Support Role for Individuals with Challenging or Aggressive Behaviors
Location: Dubuque, IA
Schedule: Full-Time | 3-Day or 4-Day Work Week Options
BASE Wage Range: $19.78–$21.78/hour + Premium Pay
Average Blended Pay: $23.08–$25.41/hour (based on premium weekend pay)
Not a Typical DSP Role - Please Read Before Applying
The DSP III position is an advanced behavioral support role.
You will work directly with individuals who may display aggressive, challenging, or self-injurious behaviors, requiring structured support, strong emotional regulation, safety awareness, and effective de-escalation strategies.
If you thrive in high-intensity environments, enjoy helping people navigate behavioral challenges, and want to develop behavioral intervention skills, this role is a strong fit.
If you are looking for a traditional caregiving-only DSP position, this role may not be the right match.
DSP III = Behavioral Expertise
This is a hands-on behavioral support position working with individuals who have high behavioral needs, including physical aggression, property destruction, escalation behaviors, and complex emotional regulation needs.
Flexible Schedule Options
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3-Day Work Week = ~203 Days Off/Year
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4-Day Work Week = ~152 Days Off/Year
HCBS – Community-Based Group Homes (Dubuque, IA)
DAY SHIFTS:
Sun, Mon, Tue (8AM–8PM) – $19.78 base wage, Sunday pay = $29.67
Sun, Mon, Wed (8AM–8PM) – $19.78 base wage, Sunday pay = $29.67
Thur, Fri, Sat (8AM–8PM) –$20.53 base wage, Saturday pay = $30.79
Wed, Fri, Sat (8AM-8PM) - $20.53 base wage, Saturday pay = $30.79
Wed, Thur, Fri (8AM-8PM) - $19.78 base wage on ALL 3 weekdays!
Overnight AWAKE: Thur, Fri, Sat (8PM-8AM) - $20.53 base wage, Saturday pay = $30.79
Overnight AWAKE: Sun, Mon, Tue, Wed (8PM-8AM) - $19.78 base wage, Sunday pay = $29.67
What to Expect in a DSP III Role
Work with clients who may display aggressive, challenging, or self-injurious behaviors
Use behavioral support strategies, including de-escalation and redirection
Implement individualized behavior support plans (BSPs)
Maintain safety through proactive structure, calm responses, and physical/environmental awareness
Support emotional regulation and teach alternative, appropriate behaviors
Serve as part of a higher-level behavioral support team
About the Role
As a Direct Support Professional III at Hills & Dales, you will:
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Support individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities who have significant behavioral support needs
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Teach essential life skills and promote independence
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Provide behavioral intervention, coaching, and structured support
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Create meaningful community experiences and safe daily routines
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Maintain documentation, monitor behavior data, and follow intervention procedures
This is not an entry-level DSP job - this is a behavioral intervention-focused role requiring confidence, patience, and strong communication skills.
What You'll Do
Teach daily living skills: self-care, cooking, cleaning, leisure, communication
Implement and track behavior plans focused on reducing challenging behaviors
Support emotional/behavioral needs using trained interventions
Administer medications (with certification)
Maintain a clean, safe, structured home environment
Plan and participate in meaningful activities and community outings
Document progress, incidents, and behavior interventions
Maintain professionalism, boundaries, and calm in high-stress moments
What You Need
High School Diploma or GED
2+ years in behavioral health preferred
Valid driver's license, insurance, and reliable transportation
Strong communication & documentation skills
Ability to lift 35 lbs and manage behavioral escalations
Clean background check and drug screen
Openness to training in safety techniques and behavior management
Why Work at Hills & Dales?
At Hills & Dales, we are passionate about building meaningful lives - for the individuals we support and the team members who support them.
You'll join a caring, skilled team with:
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Real opportunities for advancement
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A supportive environment for learning behavioral strategies
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A schedule designed for work-life balance
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The chance to make a true impact every single day
Apply Today - Build a Career with Purpose!
Offer contingent upon the succressful completetion of a criminal background check, dependernt adult and child abuse background check, and drug screen.
