Job Overview

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)

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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.

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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

ICF – Residential Facility (1011 Davis St, Dubuque, IA)

DAY SHIFTS:

• Sun (6AM-7PM), Mon, Wed (5AM-6PM)
  • $19.78 base wage on Mon Wed
  • $29.67 premium wage on Sun
• Sun Mon Tue (9AM-9PM)
  • $19.78 base wage on Mon Tue
  • $29.67 premium wage on Sun
• Thur, Fri (5AM-6PM), Sat (6AM-7PM)
  • $20.53 base wage on Thur Fri
  • $30.79 premium wage on Sat

• Thur (6AM–7PM), Fri, Sat (9AM–9PM)

  • $20.53 base wage on Thur Fri
  • $30.79 premium wage on Sat

• Wed (6AM–7PM), Fri, Sat (9AM–9PM)  

  • $20.53 base wage on Wed Fri
  • $30.79 premium wage on Sat

• Wed, Fri (6AM–7PM), Sat (6AM–6PM)

  • $20.53 base wage on Wed Fri

  • $30.79 premium wage on Sat
• Thur (6AM-7PM), Fri, Sat (8AM-8PM)
  • $20.53 base wage on Thur Fri
  • $30.79 premium wage on Sat

OVERNIGHT SHIFT: 

• Sun, Mon, Tue (5PM-6AM)
  • $19.78 base wage on Mon Tue
  • $29.67 premium wage on Sun
• Thur, Fri, Sat (5PM-6AM)
  • $20.53 base wage on Thur Fri
  • $30.79 premium wage on Sat

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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

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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.

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What You Need

High School Diploma or GED

2+ years in behavioral health preferred

Valid driver's license

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

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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

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Apply Today - Build a Career with Purpose!