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: $19.78–$21.78/hour + Premium Pay
Average Blended Pay: $23.08–$25.41/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:
Sun, Mon, Tue (8AM–8PM) – $19.78 base wage, Sunday pay = $29.67
Sun, Mon, Wed (8AM–8PM) – $19.78 base wage, Sunday pay = $29.67
Thur, Fri, Sat (8AM–8PM) –$20.53 base wage, Saturday pay = $30.79
Wed, Fri, Sat (8AM-8PM) - $20.53 base wage, Saturday pay = $30.79
Wed, Thur, Fri (8AM-8PM) - $19.78 base wage on ALL 3 weekdays!
Overnight AWAKE: Thur, Fri, Sat (8PM-8AM) - $20.53 base wage, Saturday pay = $30.79
Overnight AWAKE: Sun, Mon, Tue, Wed (8PM-8AM) - $19.78 base wage, Sunday pay = $29.67
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!
Health Insurance, Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance, Flexible Spending Account, Term Life Insurance, Short Term Disability, Voluntary Life Insurance, Bereavement Pay, Jury Duty Pay, Paid Time Off, 401K Plan, Holiday Premium Pay