Job Description

Chileda is currently hiring full and part time   Youth Development Professionals (aka Direct Support Professionals – DSPs) to work in our residential program in La Crosse. This role is ideal for individuals who are compassionate, motivated, and eager to make a meaningful impact in the lives of children with developmental and cognitive disabilities. No experience is necessary . We provide robust training and ongoing support to help you build on your experience and grow your career.

Are you looking for a purpose-driven role where your work truly matters? Whether you're building on experience in education, caregiving, or behavioral health or looking for a meaningful opportunity alongside your degree or another job, or want to start a new career, this could be the next step you’ve been searching for. We’re currently hiring for both full- and part-time positions, with openings available now, in August, and in September.

Here at Chileda Institute, we provide residential and day-school services to students (and we have an adult family home for young adults with cognitive challenges and extraordinary behavioral needs).  Our DSP's play a  vital role   in helping our students meet their treatment and program goals and develop important life skills.

Staff who thrive at Chileda have a positive attitude, a willingness to learn, and want to help make a difference in the lives of children. They are compassionate and patient individuals who succeed in structured environments and find purpose in helping others grow. Their strong communication skills, emotional resilience, and ability to stay calm under pressure make them a reliable and supportive presence in the lives of Chileda's clients. If you’re someone who thrives in structured environments, collaborates well with others, and finds fulfillment in helping children grow and succeed, Chileda could be a great fit for you.

Responsibilities

• Use a  Trauma-Informed approach  by communicating with and about clients in a respectful, positive, and age-appropriate manner while using a therapeutic tone even in high-stress situations—even during high-stress situations
• Support the development of life skills , including daily living, social interaction, hygiene, and leisure activities
• Teach students to complete chores and take responsibility for their personal space and shared environments
• Promote  self-advocacy and independence  by providing students with choices and opportunities to express themselves
• Collaborate with team members to maintain consistency in routines, behavior plans, and support strategies
• Serve as a  positive role model , demonstrating appropriate behavior, communication, and emotional regulation
• Complete behavior data reports, communication logs, incident reports and any other records for assigned students on a daily basis
• Perform additional duties as assigned by supervisors

Qualifications:

• Must be at least 18 years old
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Ability to demonstrate sound judgment and support various behaviors
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and teamwork skills
• Must be dependable and maintain professionalism in a structured care environment
• Passion for helping youth gain independence and life skills

Bonus Traits and Skills

• Experience in caregiving , ABA, or behavioral support
• Background in volunteering with youth and individuals with special needs
• Interest in work in mental health , special education , or behavioral therapy

Openings and General Working Hours

• We have an immediate opening for second shift.
• We have openings for first and second shift that start in August
• First shift hours are mornings and afternoons; second shift hours are afternoons and evenings.

Ready to make a meaningful impact and grow your career supporting youth and young adults with extraordinary needs? Apply now and join our dedicated team.

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