Career Opportunities

Become a part of something greater

At JSDD, we strive to maximize the potential of individuals with developmental disabilities and promote opportunities for their integration into the Jewish and general communities. Help us further our mission by joining our team. 

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Open Positions

Jewish Service for the Developmentally Disabled (JSDD) is seeking to hire a Direct Support Professional (DSP) to work full time in a day program setting at The WAE Center.

Responsibilities

  • Master an understanding of the WAE Center philosophy and the ability to deliver service in keeping with this philosophy
  • Assist WAE Center members in all activities as necessary; may include feeding, toileting, personal mobility, etc
  • Assist members in identifying and developing their full potential
  • Day-to-day interaction and meaningful engagement with members, establishing significant connections with the members
  • Represent a stable, predictable presence at the WAE Center
  • Assist WAE Staff in any way necessary
  • Participate in all activities
  • Generate creative ideas and demonstrate the ability to execute them as part of a team
  • Lead groups/facilitate classes as necessary and assigned
  • Work as a team with other WAE Center staff and assume general responsibility as it is appropriate and necessary to assist
  • Other responsibilities as assigned by the Management Team
  • Cooperate with all JSDD, WAE Center and Division of Developmental Disabilities inspections and investigations

Benefits

  • 403(b)
  • Dental insurance
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Referral program
  • Retirement plan
  • Vision insurance

Schedule

  • 8 hour shift
  • Day shift
  • No weekends

Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $17.00 per hour
Expected hours: 40 per week

The WAE Center, an expressive arts and learning program for adults with developmental disabilities, is seeking a dynamic Cooking Instructor/Consultant. This role is ideal for someone passionate about wellness, nutrition, and teaching in a supportive, vibrant environment.

Key Responsibilities

  • Develop and lead engaging cooking classes with a focus on healthy cooking, kitchen safety, meal planning, and essential cooking skills.
  • Facilitate three small group classes per week for adults, incorporating fun and creative culinary experiences. Assist in organizing wellness projects, activities, and field trips related to cooking and healthy living.
  • Complete necessary documentation in the Electronic Health Record system and handle administrative tasks as needed.

Qualifications

  • Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.
  • A creative, self-motivated individual with a passion for teaching healthy cooking and wellness topics.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
  • Experience meeting deadlines and adhering to agency, Division of Developmental Disabilities, and Medicaid guidelines.

Position Details

  • Consultant/contract position, 11 hours per week.
  • Schedule: 2 days / week (ideally Weds. & Thurs)
  • 5.5 hours / day (9:00am – 2:30pm); 3 one-hour classes/ day
  • Rate: $40 an hour

If you are excited about helping others learn valuable cooking skills while promoting wellness, we’d love to hear from you!

Job Type: Part-time
Pay: $40.00 per hour
Expected hours: 11 per week
Work Location: In person

This role is responsible for ensuring high-quality service delivery through active program oversight, direct staff and volunteer supervision, and strategic training coordination. This position maintains a strong presence on the program floor to observe daily activities, assess member engagement, and provide feedback to enhance program effectiveness. In addition to supervising direct support professionals (DSPs) and volunteers, the role involves performance management, coaching, and addressing staffing needs, including hiring, onboarding, and disciplinary action. This role also supports professional development by identifying training needs, facilitating staff training sessions, and ensuring compliance with required certifications. Close collaboration with the Associate Manager of Operations, the Senior Manager, and other leadership is essential to align daily operations with the organizational vision and goals and maintain a cohesive, responsive environment.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree preferred and/or 2–3 years of experience in a human services organization.
  • Requires 3–4 years of proven experience supervising and managing staff, along with strong problem-solving and communication skills.
  • Working knowledge of DDD and Medicaid protocols for day programs is essential.

Responsibilities

  • Demonstrates understanding of the WAE Center philosophy of ensuring a high standard of care by integrating person-centered, creative, and respectful approaches in all interactions with members.
  • Supports the Senior Manager in implementing the vision and advancing program goals and expectations.
  • Provides support for members during personal care activities, including assistance with feeding, toileting, and mobility as needed.
  • Supports members in setting and working toward personal goals by actively encouraging participation in activities and interactions that promote individual growth.
  • Engage with members in meaningful ways throughout the day to foster relationships and create a supportive, inclusive, and stable environment.
  • Actively contributes to the maintenance, growth, and development of the program by sharing feedback and insights.
  • Learns and applies knowledge of each member’s individual profile, including strengths, communication styles, and goals.
  • Collaborates respectfully and effectively with team members, contributing to a positive and cooperative work environment; take initiative in assisting with tasks and responsibilities.
  • Supports compliance efforts by cooperating with internal audits, licensing inspections, and investigations by JSDD, the WAE Center, and the Division of Developmental Disabilities.
  • Performs additional duties as assigned, contributing to the overall success and mission of the WAE Center.
  • Maintains an active and visual presence on the floor.
  • Observes daily program activities with a focus on staff supervision to ensure they meet members’ needs and align with their goals.
  • Tracks member engagement to help assess strengths and areas of improvement.
  • Provides feedback on program effectiveness and suggests changes based on observations.
  • Identifies and reports on issues or barriers that affect member involvement or program quality.
  • Collaborates with staff to adjust activities based on daily observations and member engagement.
  • Directly supervises DSP staff and volunteers at the WAE center.
  • Assists with the hiring, onboarding, and termination processes for DSP employees and volunteers. Leads WAE Center Orientation for all new hires.
  • Monitors employee performance and provides coaching in biweekly 1-1 meetings and feedback via annual performance reviews and staff evaluations. Partners with Senior Manager to ensure staff evaluations are completed in a timely manner and delivered thoughtfully, with a focus on clarity, professionalism, and constructive feedback.
  • Holds staff accountable to expectations; address performance concerns through coaching or disciplinary actions as needed.
  • Provides ongoing support to staff by answering questions, resolving issues, and offering guidance.
  • Delegates tasks clearly and effectively to ensure all team members understand their responsibilities.
  • Assists the Senior Manager in oversight of facilitators and consultants, as needed.
  • Provides seamless coverage for the Floor Supervisor and Front Desk Coordinator roles when required, ensuring no disruption in service delivery or operational flow.
  • Identifies training needs by assessing knowledge and skill gaps and areas for growth.
  • Ensures completion of required training in key areas, including member care needs (behavioral, social, feeding, toileting), medication administration, PANE assessment, and Fleet Safety training.
  • Maintains and updates the training binder and ensures employee and member files reflect complete training.
  • Facilitates effective group training during quarterly All-Staff Meetings and Weekly Focus Groups.
  • Collaborate with the Associate Manager of Operations through daily and weekly meetings to ensure alignment of strategies and actions to reach objectives.
  • Actively contributes to bi-weekly team meetings, sharing updates, insights, and creative ideas for member support and program improvement.
  • Provides seamless coverage for the Senior Manager and Associate Manager of Operations when needed.

Competencies

  • Effective Communication: Consistently communicates clear goals, expectations, and program objectives; delivers timely, constructive feedback that supports individual and team performance.
  • Goal Setting and Alignment: Establishes measurable goals for individuals and programs that align with JSDD’s mission and strategic objectives; regularly reviews progress and adjusts as needed.
  • Leadership and Motivation: Motivates staff by recognizing achievements, providing encouragement, and fostering professional growth; models positive leadership behaviors.
  • Conflict Resolution: Proactively addresses interpersonal or team conflicts; uses problem-solving strategies to maintain a respectful and solutions-focused work environment.
  • Team Advocacy: Effectively represents team needs and priorities; communicates resource or support needs to leadership and follows up to ensure team success.
  • Positive Work Culture: Actively promotes collaboration, inclusivity, and mutual respect; builds a cohesive team environment where all members feel valued and supported.

Job Type: Full-time
Pay: From $48,000 annually
Expected hours: 40 per week
Work Location: In person

Benefits

  • 403(b)
  • Dental insurance
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Referral program
  • Vision insurance
Painting together during WAE Center's day program

Jewish Service for The Developmentally Disabled (JSDD) is the lead, multi-purpose agency dedicated to providing an integrated program of community education, advocacy and services for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.

We are currently seeking to hire a Direct Support Professional to work Part Time on the weekends in our Residential Homes located in Essex or Morris County.

Expected Hours: Saturday – Sunday, 4-11pm.

Responsibilities and Duties

  • Complete all required trainings and maintain certification
  • Promptly arrive at the beginning of each shift and ask pertinent information from the departing staff member
  • Read the daily log and communication books
  • Be thoroughly familiar with emergency and on-call procedures
  • Provide security to residents by assisting and accompanying them at all times at home and
    in the community
  • Administer or monitor medications as prescribed
  • Assist residents with cooking, house-keeping, and grooming skills as listed on their IHP or ISP
  • Treat all residents with dignity and respect and be cognizant of resident rights at all times
  • Provide ongoing support and be a positive role model for achieving the greatest independence
  • Provide residents with support in decision making and opportunities for choices
  • Participate in overall operation of the residence which may include accompanying residents to
    medical appointments and recreation activities
  • Cooperate with all JSDD and Division of Developmental Disabilities inspections or investigations
  • Follow through with tasks and which the Resident Manager/Assistant Manager may request

Qualifications and Skills

  • High School Diploma or equivalent
  • Some experience working with persons with DDD in a residential setting or relevant experience
  • Valid NJ driver’s license
  • Excellent written and communication skills

Pay: From $17.00 per hour

JSDD is committed to providing high-quality residential and community services to individuals with autism in a warm, inviting group home setting located in Maplewood, NJ. We are dedicated to supporting individuals we serve in acquiring new skills and participating in meaningful recreation and community activities. The program is designed to provide residents with the opportunities to achieve their greatest level of independence, success, and fulfillment.

Seeking applicants who are interested in joining a team of dedicated professionals and who are eager to acquire new skills and provide excellence in a residential setting with an emphasis on local community involvement.

Expected Hours: Saturday 9am – 4pm and Sunday 4pm – 11pm

Qualifications

  • Current NJ Driver’s license (in good standing)
  • Satisfactorily passing all required background checks
  • Ability to complete required trainings
  • Team player
  • Positive attitude
  • Receptive to learning new skills

Responsibilities

  • Assist in identifying new skills that would benefit residents
  • Assist in developing strategies to help residents experience new things
  • Help to ensure that residents advance and are as successful as possible by implementing interesting and varied daily schedules
  • Support residents in maximizing their independence
  • Interact respectfully, warmly and effectively with residents
  • Create opportunities for residents to expand relationships with friends and family members
  • Facilitate successful community experiences and immersion for residents
  • Assist in developing, organizing and acquiring materials needed for daily activities
  • Complete all required and ongoing training towards developing new competencies
  • Be actively involved in determining the culture within the home by participating in regular staff meetings, staff development activities and other trainings
  • Collect and summarize information about activities and resident success
  • Ensure the physical health and well-being of residents, including accompanying residents to medical and dental appointments
  • Ensure medications are labeled, stored, dispensed and recorded in accordance with medication administration policy
  • Support residents in maintaining their personal appearance
  • Complete all assigned activities in a manner that is compatible with program policy, ethical and legal standards and professional ethics in the field
  • Develop and maintain professional relationships and interactions with all members of the organization
  • Be knowledgeable of, and compliant with, emergency procedures, documentation requirements, fleet management procedures and all other program policies of JSDD

Benefits

  • 403(b)
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Paid training
  • Referral program
  • Retirement plan

Work Location: In person
Job Types: Full-time & Part-time

Pay: $18.00 per hour

Jewish Service for The Developmentally Disabled (JSDD) is the lead, multi-purpose agency dedicated to providing an integrated program of community education, advocacy and services for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. JSDD is currently seeking a Part-Time Staff Nurse. The hours for the position would be 16 to 20 hours a week, with flexibility to work 2 days a week either Monday, Tuesday or Thursday from 9-5pm, 8-4pm, or 8-4:30pm.

Responsibilities and Duties

  • Support the health and wellness of the residents in each of the homes operated by JSDD
  • Monitor, coordinate and manage the medical/nursing needs of each resident, including scheduling of an accompaniment to medical and dental appointments as needed with assistance from the Director of Nursing as needed
  • Assistance with personal hygiene skills and activities of daily living
  • Review medication administration records on a regular basis to assure staff accuracy
  • Assure copies of prescriptions exist for all administered medications and that their information is correctly transcribed onto records
  • Support Residence Managers in organizing and maintaining each resident’s medical file
  • Provide on-going in-service training to staff on health issues
  • Participate in the IHP process as part of an interdisciplinary team
  • Act as a contact person for staff/residents regarding any information, recommendations or questions resulting from medical appointments or in case of illness or adverse reaction to medication
  • Cooperate with any and all JSDD and Division of Developmental Disabilities inspeactions or investigations
  • Qualifications and Skills –
  • L.P.N or R.N and demonstrate a high level of organizational skills
  • Experience working with the DDD population a plus
  • Excellent written and communication skills
  • Experience working with Group Home population a plus

Pay: From $30.00 per hour

Expected hours: 16 – 20 per week

Work Location: In person across various group home location within Essex and Morris County

Jewish Service for the Developmentally Disabled (JSDD) is the lead, multi-purpose agency dedicated to providing an integrated program of community education, advocacy, and services for individuals with developmental disabilities. We are currently seeking to hire an Assistant Residential Manager for our group home located in West Orange. The position is Full Time, 40 hours a week. Sunday – Thursday 2PM to 10PM; flexibility with shifts is required and working one day on the weekend.

Responsibilities and Duties

  • Assist with supervising the daily operations of the residents, including all household, staff and resident related matters
  • Participate in the orientation, training and ongoing supervision of direct care staff
  • Monitor all administrative systems – i.e. communication and logbooks, daily training records, fire drill records, menus, client files, etc.
  • Assure accuracy and compliance with medication administration procedures by all staff assigned to work in the home. Check MAR sheets daily.
  • Monitor the physical upkeep of the residence
  • Promote community inclusion and person-centered philosophies
  • Maintain positive relationships with families of residents
  • Assist in coordinating and scheduling social events that emphasize community inclusion
  • Participate in the IHP process for each resident and is knowledgeable of all goals
  • Document household and resident expenditures
  • Cooperate with any JSDD and Division of Developmental Disabilities inspections or investigations
  • Other duties as delegated

Qualifications and Skills

  • High School Diploma or equivalent, BA preferred
  • At least two years’ experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities in a residential setting
  • Valid NJ driver’s license
  • Some relevant supervisory experience and or leadership experience
  • Excellent written and communication skills

JSDD offers a benefits package with a choice of health plans that includes medical, dental, vision, and a 403 B investment package along with paid time off.

JSDD is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, disability or any other characteristic protected by law.

Job Type: Full-time
Pay
: From $30.00 per hour

Benefits

  • 403(b)
  • Dental insurance
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Retirement plan
  • Vision insurance

JSDD is seeking a compassionate and dedicated Full-Time Supervised Apartment Nurse to support the health and wellness of residents living in supervised apartment settings. This is a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact by providing essential nursing support in a residential environment that promotes independence and quality of life.

Qualifications

NJ License as an R.N. or L.P.N. and demonstrate a high level of critical thinking, organizational, communication and follow-up skills. Experience with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities a plus; Hold a current driver’s license in good standing.

Competencies

To practice and encourage in others the ability to observe, identify and follow up on health needs and changes as they arise and establish trust, confidence, and positive relationships with both the individuals served, their families, as well as JSDD team members.

Responsibilities

  • Support the health and wellness of the residents in each of the homes operated by JSDD
  • Follow all JSDD policy and procedures including but not limited to medical policies and procedures
  • Provide education to residents in managing and advocating for their own health to the greatest extent possible
  • Provide on-going education/in-service training to JSDD team members on health issues as needed
  • Monitor, coordinate and manage the medical/nursing needs of each resident, including scheduling and accompaniment to physician appointments/Urgent Care and or ER as needed
  • Function as a liaison between JSDD team members and health care providers/pharmacies/insurance companies when needed
  • Be thoroughly familiar with each resident’s medical history and current health status
  • Communicate effectively with Director of Nursing and Associate Director of Nursing and other JSDD team members
  • Ensure all physician orders/recommendations/follow up/referrals are implemented as soon as possible and documented as necessary by JSDD team members
  • Assistance with personal hygiene skills and activities of daily living as needed
  • Conduct thorough nursing reviews at residential sites on a regularly scheduled basis to assure staff accuracy
  • Assist management in maintaining an adequate supply of medications and medical supplies as needed
  • Provide recommendations as appropriate for medical care for residents
  • Ensure electronic health records are up to date with current & historical medical information
  • Ensure copies of current orders and current prescriptions are on file for all medications and that their information is accurately transcribed onto records
  • Support residential managers/senior direct care professionals in organizing and maintaining each resident’s medical file
  • Participate/collaborate in the ISP process as part of an interdisciplinary team as needed
  • Function as a contact for JSDD team members/residents regarding any medical information, recommendations or questions resulting from medical appointments or in case of illness or adverse reaction to medication etc.
  • Cooperate with any and all JSDD and Division of Developmental Disabilities inspections and investigations
  • Other relevant duties assigned and under the supervision of the Director of Nursing

Job Type: Full-time
Pay
: $62,400.00 – $68,640.00 per year
Work Location: In person

Benefits

  • 403(b)
  • Dental insurance
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid sick time
  • Paid time off
  • Referral program
  • Vision insurance
Cooking together in JSDD's Residential program

Overview

JSDD: Life | Home | Tech (LHT) is at the forefront of supporting greater independence for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), autism, and older adults who are aging in place. The Life | Home | Tech Coordinator will play a key role in supporting LHT program activities and helping residents of JSDD’s residential homes increase independence through technology solutions. The ideal candidate will be passionate about enhancing the quality of life for adults who need support. They will also be patient, organized and enthusiastic about accessibility for all.

This is a full-time, grant-funded position, subject to renewal.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree preferred; equivalent work experience may be considered in lieu of a degree
  • Excellent organizational skills and strong attention to detail and follow-up
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • The ability to manage multiple priorities, work independently and collaboratively
  • Tech savvy (i.e., Amazon Echo devices, smart home technology, basic household devices), including installation and education, with an interest in exploring how devices can help increase independence
  • Experience working with adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, autism, and/or older adults a plus
  • A strong work ethic, integrity, and the highest ethical standards

Key Responsibilities

  • Create and update Enabling Technology Integration Plans, conduct assessments and participate in plan-of-care meetings
  • Evaluate effectiveness and functionality of technology in homes through Quality Assurance (QA) checks, routine visits to the homes, obtaining resident and team member feedback
  • Implement enabling technology and train individuals, team members and caregivers, as needed, ensuring all required documentation is completed accurately and on time
  • Build relationships within the JSDD community (team members, residents, members, caregivers)
  • Assist with the development of policy and implementation of Remote Supports to promote greater independence
  • Administrative support for program activities
  • Other responsibilities assigned by the Program Manager

Schedule

  • Monday to Friday, business hours
  • Occasional Evening or Weekend availability for special events

Location: Hybrid Position, local travel around Essex and Morris Counties to monitor project activities, as well as attendance at meetings, events and related programs at JSDD main office in Livingston, NJ.

Salary: $49,000 per year

JSDD offers a benefits package with a choice of health plans that include medical, dental, vision, a 403 B investment package along with paid time off.

Susan in WAE Center helping people learn assistive tech as part of the JSDD: Life Home Tech program

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Explore

Who We Are

At JSDD, the expectations for quality extend beyond what services and supports may be available to what life fulfilling experiences are possible. Our philosophy supports the notion that there are no limits to those possibilities. We have developed opportunities over time through a dynamic process of establishing relationships with the agency’s residents and WAE Center members. Unexplored interests, ideas, prospects for learning, continuing education and creativity are constantly evolving and emerge as our remarkable staff and the people we support get to know each other and share experiences.

What We do

Ability is the focus of all efforts in supporting the men and women we serve. We are delighted and inspired each and every day by the insights, revelations and creative energy that emerges when respectful relationships for the gifts and talent of every individual are considered. Learning and creativity occur organically as people share themselves and develop friendships and help each other to grow.

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