Lead Respite Worker

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Lead Respite Worker

Department: DDS Community Respite Program
Reports To: Respite Coordinator

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt (Hourly)
Location: Springfield, MA
Employment Type: Full-Time

Salary Range: $25/hour

About New North Citizens’ Council (NNCC)

New North Citizens’ Council is a community-based nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for residents through education, workforce development, family support, and community services. NNCC is committed to equity, inclusion, and culturally responsive service delivery.

Position Summary

The Lead Respite Worker supports individuals and families participating in the DDS Community Respite Program by providing direct respite services and assisting with program coordination. Working under the direction of the Program Coordinator, this role facilitates individual and group respite activities for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, promotes community inclusion, and ensures participant safety and well-being. The position also provides transportation support using program vehicles, including a handicap-accessible van.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

(Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.)

Direct Support & Respite Services

• Provide community-based respite care and support to assigned individuals and families in accordance with DDS regulations and program guidelines.
• Deliver respite services in one-on-one and group settings for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
• Support participants in engaging in meaningful recreational, educational, and community activities.
• Promote positive behavior, inclusion, independence, and social interaction.
• Understand and respond appropriately to participants’ healthcare, safety, and behavioral needs.
• Implement Positive Behavioral Support strategies and therapeutic interventions when appropriate.

Program Coordination Support

• Assist the Program Coordinator in organizing, planning, and facilitating group respite activities and events.
• Maintain effective communication with the Coordinator, Navigator, families, and other team members.
• Coordinate transportation to approved activities and appointments for assigned individuals.
• Demonstrate knowledge of community resources, recreational opportunities, and local programs.
• Organize tasks efficiently and manage time effectively to meet program needs.
• Serve as a resource and role model for respite staff and volunteers during activities.
• Assist in supporting program operations and ensuring quality service delivery.

Documentation & Compliance

• Complete and submit required weekly documentation, activity logs, and participant records accurately and on time.
• Maintain confidentiality and comply with DDS policies, agency procedures, and safety standards.
• Ensure all transportation and participant safety protocols are followed.

Required Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Minimum of two (2) years of experience in human services, respite care, family support, or a related field preferred.
• Experience supporting children and/or adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities strongly preferred.
• Knowledge of Positive Behavioral Support (PBS) and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) interventions preferred.
• Valid Massachusetts Driver’s License required.
• Reliable, registered, and insured personal vehicle required.
• Ability to safely operate program vehicles, including handicap-accessible vans.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bilingual and bicultural (English/Spanish)
• Experience working in a nonprofit, community-based, or human services environment
• Experience working with diverse populations

Core Competencies

• Self-Management & Reliability
• Compassionate Participant Support
• Communication & Relationship Building
• Organization & Time Management
• Behavior Support Knowledge
• Technology Proficiency
• Community Resource Awareness

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Regularly required to stand, walk, bend, reach, stoop, kneel, and climb.
• Frequently required to assist participants with mobility and transportation needs.
• Ability to lift and/or move up to 25 pounds regularly.
• Requires visual attention, depth perception, and close-distance vision.
• Work is performed in community-based settings, participant homes, and program locations.
• Moderate noise levels may be present.
• Travel within the community is required.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

New North Citizens’ Council is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under federal, state, or local law.

ADA & Reasonable Accommodation Statement (REQUIRED)

NNCC is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

At-Will Employment Disclaimer (Massachusetts Standard Practice)

Employment with NNCC is at-will and may be terminated by either the employee or the organization at any time, with or without cause or notice, in accordance with applicable law.