Autism Support Specialist - DSP

Job Description

We are seeking Direct Support Professionals and Community Support Specialists to work with us and support our patients with Autism & Developmental Disabilities.

Schedule: Weekday, daytime hours (10–30 hours/week). Additional hours up to full-time and overnight shifts may be available.

Pay: Starting at $20/hour + Benefits (see below)

Make a Difference Every Day

Are you a former teacher, teaching assistant, paraprofessional, tutor, or someone with a passion for helping others thrive? Join our team and support adults with autism and other developmental disabilities to live full, active lives in their community.

We have multiple openings in the Oakdale, Twin Cities area for individuals who are compassionate, energetic, and looking for meaningful work that has a direct impact. Whether you're guiding someone through a volunteer experience, helping them build communication skills, or simply encouraging daily activity, you’ll play a vital role in their growth and success.

What You’ll Do:

Work one-on-one with adults with developmental disabilities in community-based settings

Support individuals with personalized goals in education, physical activity, paid work, volunteering, and social skills

Encourage independence, self-expression, and community engagement

Provide support with behavioral and communication skills as needed

Maintain consistent weekday daytime hours (with opportunities for additional or overnight shifts)

Who We’re Looking For:

Friendly, dependable, and committed to helping others succeed

Great fit for former educators, paraprofessionals, behavior techs, and caregivers

Comfortable working independently with a single participant in community settings

Experience working with individuals on the autism spectrum or other developmental disabilities is a plus, but not required — we provide paid training

Must have:

A High School diploma or equivalent

Reliable vehicle, valid driver’s license, and a good driving record

Ability to pass a background check

Access to a cell phone

Why Join Us?

Starting wage of $20/hour

Flexible weekday hours (10–30 hours/week)

Opportunities to grow into full-time roles and leadership positions

Paid onboarding and annual training

Full-time employees (36+ hours/week) receive:

Medical & Dental Insurance

Paid Time Off & Holiday Pay

401(k) with company match

Car Repair Assistance Fund

Related Experience & Keywords:

Ideal for those with experience or interest in:

Education, Teaching, Substitute Teaching

Special Education (SPED), Teacher’s Aide, Paraprofessional

ABA Therapy, Behavior Technician, Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Youth Programs, After-School Programs, Summer Camps

Social Work, Human Services, Case Management

In-home Care, Personal Care Assistant (PCA), Caregiver

Community Outreach, Nonprofit Work, Volunteer Coordination

Autism Support, Developmental Disabilities, Mental Health ServicesCompany Description

Customized Options Non-Profit was founded as an alternative day program in 2005 to provide greater opportunities to adults with developmental disabilities like autism.

Vision: \tOur vision is a vibrant engaged community with expanded opportunities, where everyone can achieve their dreams and potential.

Mission: \tCustomized Options, Empowering individuals, Enriching Community

Core Values:

•\tChallenge - Growth and belief in potential We invest in the potential of individuals through (providing opportunities)

for continued challenge and growth.

•\tIndividuality - We welcome the uniqueness of being different.

•\tRespect - We will treat each individual, ourselves, and the community with respect and understanding.

•\tCelebrate Success - We highlight success along the path towards our ultimate goal.

•\tStewardship - We strive to be the best stewards of the resources entrusted to us by our clients and the people we serve.

•\tInnovation - We are open to new and creative ways of accomplishing goals.

Full-time