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Work for New York State and make an impact in the lives of people with developmental disabilities! OPWDD has openings all over the state for hard-working, compassionate and dedicated people to become direct support professionals. OPWDD offers a great salary and benefits package with retirement, paid time off, medical, dental and vision insurance.
 

Minimum Qualifications

Applicants for a Direct Support position must have a high school diploma or an equivalent and a valid license to drive in New York State. Please note that all new employees will be required to be fit-tested for an N-95 mask during the onboarding process.

OPWDD encourages you to apply once you have met the minimum qualifications.


 
Do you have a high school diploma or an equivalency, such as a GED? *
Do you have a valid license to operate a motor vehicle in New York State? *
Applicants will be required to provide copies of high school diploma or equivalent and driver’s license.
What is your preferred method of communication?
Our individuals’ safety is of utmost importance. As a Direct Support Professional, you may be required to/asked to work overtime to ensure there is sufficient staffing needed to care for the individuals in the location you are assigned
Is there any reason you would not be able to work overtime should a situation warrant it?
All candidates must be eligible for employment in the United States and maintain this eligibility throughout their employment in New York State. Employment is contingent upon the provision of proof of the right to accept employment in the United States.
 
Are you legally authorized to work in the United States?
Will you now, or in the future, require sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g., for an H-1B Visa)?
If under age 18, can you provide a work permit?
Applicant Information
 
Permanent Address
Is your permanent address also your Current Mailing Address? If so, you do not have to fill out the Current Mailing Address section.
Current Address
Are you interested in working Full-time or Part-time?
Direct Care positions require different work schedules. Please indicate which shifts you would be able to perform.
Note: New Employee Orientation will be held Monday-Friday during regular business hours.
 
How did you learn about employment opportunities with OPWDD?
Applicant Affirmation and Release Authorization

I affirm that all statements made by me on this form, including attached papers, are true, complete and correct to the best of my knowledge. I understand all statements made by me in connection with this application are subject to investigation and verification and that falsification or omission of information is cause for the revocation of offer of employment or dismissal from employment. I understand that knowingly making a false statement on this application or any attachment or supporting document is punishable as a misdemeanor pursuant to Section 210.45 of the NYS Penal Law.
I hereby authorize any former or current employer, military records center, or school to provide the New York State Department of Civil Service and/or the hiring authority any and all information necessary to reach an employment decision including, but not limited to, information regarding my job duties, attendance, behavior, work habits, skills, abilities, claims, liabilities, damage, and relationships with coworkers, customers or supervisors.
 
Please indicate if you have read and agree to the Applicant Affirmation and Release and affirm all statements are true and you authorize the release of information.

Core Principles of a Direct Care worker

As a direct care worker, you will assist people with developmental disabilities enjoy meaningful relationships with friends, family, and others in their lives, experience personal health and growth, and participate in their communities.
• Putting People First: Supporting individuals by participating in their life planning activities, promoting self-advocacy, and protecting their rights.
• Building and Maintaining Relationships: Working with individuals to identify strategies to develop social skills and self-confidence in social settings.
• Demonstrating Professionalism: Being respectful, courteous, kind, and compassionate when working with and supporting individuals served.
• Supporting Good Health: Ensuring individuals emotional, physical, and mental well-being by promoting healthy choices and behaviors. You will become certified to pass and administer medications to the individuals we serve.
• Supporting Safety: Providing a safe environment for individuals in their home and when in transit.
• Having a Home: Supporting individuals by assisting with daily living activities in their home.
• Being Active and Productive in Society: Assisting individuals develop social, educational and career skills.
 

What else do I need to know?

• You must be able to show care, compassion, and empathy when dealing with an individual’s challenging behaviors.
• There are physically challenging aspects of being a direct care worker. You may have to stand for long periods of time and physically assist or lift individuals to provide care.
• Candidates for these positions must have flexible availability to work extended hours outside their normal schedule when needed.