Direct Care Staff

About the role

Direct Care Staff / Instructional Aides are the foundational presence within Evergreen Center's residential, educational, and community environments, ensuring the daily mission is fulfilled through direct interaction. This role owns the implementation of instructional activities and treatment programs, requiring a proactive approach to adapting methods to meet the specific and individual needs of each client. Staff in this position serve as the primary guide for community routines, facilitating safe and structured outings while meticulously maintaining safety protocols at every turn. The position demands diligent ownership of session notes and data collection, ensuring that all documentation accurately reflects client progress and engagement. Bilingual and bicultural candidates are actively encouraged to apply, as this greatly enhances the organization's commitment to cultural equity and inclusion. Evergreen Center operates as an equal opportunity employer and participates in E-Verify, ensuring a fair and standardized hiring process for all candidates. This role is integral to the collaborative interdisciplinary team, working in tandem with other professionals to ensure consistent and high-quality care across all settings.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Establish daily schedules for clients and provide direct support to help them achieve their personalized goals.
• Adapt instructional methods and treatment strategies to align with the specific requirements and preferences of each individual client.
• Design and set agendas for instructional sessions, ensuring that activities are structured and purposeful.
• Track and record client progress meticulously against established plans, identifying trends and areas for adjustment.
• Guide community visits and excursions, acting as a vigilant guardian of safety protocols during these outings.
• Organize and manage all necessary materials and resources to create a conducive environment for learning and development in classrooms.
• Transport individuals to various appointments and programs using a valid driver's license, ensuring timely and secure arrival.
• Facilitate clear and effective communication channels between clients, their families, and the broader professional staff team.
• Maintain accurate, detailed, and up-to-date records of all sessions, adhering strictly to required documentation formats.
• Support the implementation of treatment programs within residential settings, ensuring consistency and care in the home environment.
• Partner with local community organizations to identify and create opportunities for social integration and personal growth.
• Collect data during interactions to inform instructional decisions and measure the effectiveness of implemented strategies.
• Serve as a reliable and consistent presence, fostering trust and stability for the individuals being supported.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to share observations and contribute to the holistic care planning process.

Requirements

• Hold a High School Diploma or GED certificate; a Bachelor's degree is preferred for this role.
• Possess prior, demonstrable experience working with individuals who have disabilities across various settings.
• Maintain a valid driver's license that is current and unrestricted for the duration of employment.
• Successfully pass an extensive background check, which includes drug screening, as a mandatory condition of employment.
• Be at least 21 years of age to fulfill the responsibilities associated with transporting and caring for clients.
• Demonstrate the physical capability to perform essential job functions, including the potential need for manual lifting or assisting with movement.
• Exhibit strong written and verbal communication skills to ensure accurate documentation and effective collaboration with families and staff.
• Show a consistent commitment to professionalism, reliability, and punctuality in all scheduled duties and interactions.
• Understand and comply with all Evergreen Center policies, procedures, and safety protocols without exception.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding all client information, adhering strictly to legal and ethical standards.
• Be authorized to work in the United States without requiring sponsorship at the time of application.
• Possess a valid Social Security Number or equivalent identification as required by institutional and regulatory standards.
• Complete any additional training or certifications required by the center to ensure compliance with industry standards.

Nice to have

• Preferred bilingual and bicultural competencies to enhance communication and cultural connection with clients.
• Previous volunteer or employment experience within community service or educational settings.
• Familiarity with disability-specific support strategies and behavioral intervention techniques.
• Experience in data collection and basic record-keeping practices.
• Knowledge of local community resources and service networks.

Practical notes

• Employees must use a personal vehicle for transportation duties and hold a valid driver license.
• This position requires extended hours, including weekends and holidays, to ensure continuous client support.
• Full-time engagement is expected, with a standard schedule that may vary based on client needs and program requirements.
• Travel between client locations and community sites is an essential and routine part of the position.
• Visa sponsorship is not available for this role, and candidates must have the right to work without sponsorship.
• The $2,000 incentive bonus is offered to qualified hires who meet all onboarding and certification requirements.