OGDENSBURG – United Helpers Behavioral Health and Life Skills is hosting open interviews on the first and last Wednesday of each month for those interested in working as Direct Support Professionals (DSPs).

Bi-monthly open, in-person interviews will begin on Wednesday, Sept. 29 from 1-3 p.m. The following week on Wednesday, Oct. 6 open interviews will be held from 9 to 11 a.m. The interviews will be held at United Helpers 100 Ford Street complex.

Open interviews will always be from 1 to 3 p.m. on the final Wednesday and from 9 to 11 a.m. on the first Wednesday of each month.

The primary role of a DSP is to promote skills development and act as a role model to those with developmental disabilities residing in one of United Helpers 11 Individualized Residential Alternatives (IRAs). DSPs also inspire involvement and participation in recreational, community and/or social activities.

A typical day for a DSP may include assistance with personal care, interactions and daily activities such as travel to medical appointments, attendance at religious services, concerts, sporting, or other community events.

The starting salary for DSPs is $15 per hour, however, for those working evening and midnight shifts, a shift differential is available, bringing the wage up to $16 and $16.50 per hour.

While vacancies exist across the county, the greatest area of need is currently in the Rensselaer Falls and Potsdam areas.

United Helpers operates IRAs in Ogdensburg, Heuvelton, Lisbon, Morristown, Rensselaer Falls, Potsdam, and Norwood.