Advanced DSP - Behavioral Support Specialist

Direct 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 : $19.75–$21.50 / hour + Premium Pay

Average Blended Pay : $23.04–$25.08 / 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

3-Day Work Week = ~203 Days Off / Year

4-Day Work Week = ~152 Days Off / Year

HCBS – Community-Based Group Homes (Dubuque, IA)

DAY SHIFTS :

Mon, Tue, Wed (9AM–9PM) – $19.75

Sun, Mon, Tue (8AM–8PM) – $19.75

Sun, Mon, Wed (8AM–8PM) – $19.75

Thur, Fri, Sat (8AM–8PM) – $20.25

Wed, Fri, Sat (9AM–9PM) – $20.25

ICF – Residential Facility (1011 Davis St, Dubuque, IA)

DAY SHIFTS :

Sun (6AM–6PM), Mon, Tue (6AM–7PM) – $17.75

Thur (6AM–7PM), Fri, Sat (9AM–9PM) – $20.25

Wed (6AM–7PM), Fri, Sat (9AM–9PM) – $20.25

Wed, Fri (6AM–7PM), Sat (6AM–6PM) – $20.25

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 :

Support individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities who have significant behavioral support needs

Teach essential life skills and promote independence

Provide behavioral intervention, coaching, and structured support

Create meaningful community experiences and safe daily routines

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 :

Real opportunities for advancement

A supportive environment for learning behavioral strategies

A schedule designed for work-life balance

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.