Direct Support Specialist

About Camphill Village Minnesota: Since 1980, Camphill Village Minnesota has provided residential and day activity services for adults with developmental disabilities in an inclusive intentional community. There are currently about 40 people including live-in caregivers and their families living together in family style homes with adults who have developmental and intellectual disabilities. Everyone works together on our 525 biodynamic acres to grow organic produce, care for farm animals, preserve and prepare food, create artisan crafts, and keep each other healthy and our homes clean and beautiful. Everyone has talents and skills to offer that are appreciated and felt by the community. For a fuller picture of Camphill Village Minnesota, visit www.camphillmn.org 

Job Summary: The main duty of the Direct Support Specialist is to support all the homes within Camphill Village. The role of the Direct Support Specialist shall be one of assistance and guidance, to be an example rather than to direct, whenever possible.  

Interpersonal Relationship Responsibilities:

• Day to day support of people with special needs. Making certain that the home life is harmonious, that the people who need it receive help with person hygiene, and care for their rooms and personal belongings.  

• Making sure that instructions of an individual’s doctor are carried out.  Maintaining awareness of the physical well-being of the people with special needs, noting any injuries, discomfort, or illness.

• Consulting with Camphill Village groups and individuals when indicated as needed.

• Assisting with well-balanced meals which shall be served attractively and on time.

• Coaching: As much as possible, persons with special needs shall be helped toward increasing independence and responsibility in all living skills (self-care, care for the home, care for personal possessions and clothing, money management, work, interpersonal relationships, and social and cultural life).

• Being part of the community events

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Ability to read, write and speak English at a level that meets the performance requirements.

• Ability to work independently with minimal instruction and make independent decisions when circumstances warrant such action.

• Ability to maintain good employee relations and morale.

• Willingness to take initiative and adapt to circumstances.

• Ability to follow daily routines while allowing for flexibility and planning creative alternatives.

• Ability to implement any therapeutic interventions as required.

• Ability to work in a variety of settings and with a variety of levels of personal care needs without direct supervision.

• Ability to effectively use a computer and software, calculator, household appliances, smoke alarms, etc. with training.

• Ability to accept and incorporate new methods into existing practices.

• Other duties such as cooking, team building, and homemaking skills.  

Education and Experience: 

• At least one-year work experience providing direct care services to persons with disabilities or seniors.  

• Must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent.   

Salary, Benefits and Schedule: We are offering the salary range of $20 - $22 per hour based on experience.  This position will be a 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday 8:00 am – 4:3 pm.  The position also has benefits which include a health benefit contribution, retirement contribution, and vacation.  

To Apply: Please email your resume, cover letter, and salary expectations to HR@camphillmn.org.  Resumes will be reviewed as soon as they are received.