Direct Support Professional (Live in)

Direct Support Professionals Live-in, relationship-centered role $15/hr with a 40 hour work week FREE room and board (housing, food, and utilities valued at up to $36k per year) in a private living space within the 4000 sq foot community home At Branching Tree, home is about connection, belonging, and shared life. We're looking for a compassionate, joyful Direct Support Professionals to join our household team, supporting adults with intellectual disabilities and autism in daily life, meaningful relationships, and community activities.

THE ROLE

Direct Support Professionals live in the home alongside three adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, the House Manager, and another live-in Direct Support Professional, forming a collaborative household team. This role is well-suited for grad students majoring in special education, psychology, social work, or related fields who are seeking co-op/practicum experience. Direct Support Professionals support household routines, engage meaningfully with residents, and help create a safe, welcoming, and inclusive home. The role also includes providing individualized support to residents with higher support needs, offering direct assistance with personal care, hygiene, social engagement, and behavioral support. The anticipated start date for this position is May 2026.

Length of commitment:

1 year. This role will report directly to our licensing agency, High Spirit Community Farm.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Direct Support Professionals support residents in all aspects of daily life, including to: Sustain a safe, supportive, and inclusive home, modeling respect, dignity, and positive communication Develop individual relationships and work with each resident according to his/her

ISP, ADL

objectives and specific behavior Collaborate with the House Manager and other Direct Support Professionals to maintain smooth household flow and coverage Be cognizant of all Branching Tree policies with regard to the care, safety, and treatment of residents, including fire drill procedures, locations and use of fire-extinguishing equipment and emergency exits, runaway procedures, first aid and seizure procedures, and medication procedures Support residents in managing emotions, navigating challenging moments, and fostering positive coping strategies Provide hands-on assistance with daily living activities, including personal care, meal time, shower routines, and bedtime programs Support social, leisure, recreational time, and household routines and activities as guided by the House Manager Drive residents to and from activities in the community Participate in staff meetings and trainings Encourage meaningful connections in the wider community through outings, recreational activities, and social events Contribute to an inclusive, respectful household where everyone feels valued and supported

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

We are seeking individuals who bring strong relational skills and alignment with our values.

Ideal candidates demonstrate:

Experience supporting adults with IDD (preferred) Excellent communication and interpersonal skills Reliability, flexibility, and empathy Comfort living and working in a close-knit, shared community A warm, person-centered approach and ability to engage positively A sense of humor and the ability to contribute to a positive household culture

QUALIFICATIONS

Valid U.S. Driver's License and safe driving record I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification Must be 18 years of age or older Physical ability to lift 20 lbs and navigate a busy environment Successful completion of a mandatory background check and training

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS FREE

room and board (housing, food, and utilities valued at up to $36k per year) in a private living space within the 4000 sq foot community home Paid time off and planned coverage for time away Use of community vehicle Ongoing training, consultation, and support Student loan repayment (negotiable) A uniquely rich social work, educational, and cultural experience

WHO SHOULD APPLY

This role is well-suited for individuals who are drawn to inclusive, community living and grad students majoring in special education, psychology, social work, or related fields who are seeking co-op/practicum opportunities. We value personal qualities, lived experience, and alignment with our mission over formal credentials or traditional resumes.

WHY THIS ROLE MATTERS

Direct Support Professionals help create a home where adults with disabilities truly belong, not just live. This role blends meaningful support, shared responsibility, and relationship-building in a community grounded in dignity, inclusion, and mutual care.

ABOUT BRANCHING TREE

Branching Tree is a nonprofit creating a small community of inclusive homes where adults with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) live together in genuine community, rooted in belonging, mutual care, and everyday life. Our community is located in Williamsburg, Massachusetts, just 10 minutes from Northampton, on 12.5 acres surrounded by 288 acres of protected conservation land. It is intentionally designed to feel like a shared home, not a program.

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

$15.00 per hour Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

Paid time off

Work Location:

In person