Community Support Specialist (Montgomery County)

Community Support Specialist Full-Time Position Who We’re Looking For The Community Support Specialist is a highly engaged and mission-driven role that combines direct care with intentional, individualized service planning for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

This position is ideal for someone who thrives on meaningful connection and purposeful structure—providing hands-on support while also developing personalized, goal-driven activities that foster learning, independence, and community integration.

The ideal candidate approaches each day with flexibility, creativity, and a deep commitment to the unique growth objectives of every person served.

Much like lesson planning, this role requires thoughtful preparation and execution of activities designed to build specific skills and support long-term personal development in both home and community settings.

What You’ll Do to Make a Difference Hands-On Support That Empowers Lives Deliver direct support in various settings to individuals with IDD in alignment with their Person-Centered Plan (PCP), including assistance with activities of daily living, personal care, and targeted skill-building.

Design and implement individualized learning objectives that reflect each person’s goals, interests, and abilities.

Apply flexible, adaptive strategies to meet the evolving needs of each individual and promote meaningful engagement.

Administer medications and perform delegated nursing tasks in accordance with Maryland Board of Nursing (MBON) delegation guidelines.

Promote self-determination by supporting individuals in exercising their rights, making informed choices, and working toward their personal aspirations.

Track and evaluate progress toward learning objectives, making adjustments based on observed outcomes and individual feedback.

Maintain timely and accurate documentation in compliance with Maryland DDA regulations and quality standards.

Creating Meaningful, Personalized Opportunities Identify, create, and facilitate individualized activities—both in-person and online—that align with each person’s learning objectives, interests, and developmental goals.

Research and recommend community-based opportunities (e.g., classes, clubs, volunteering, recreation) that promote meaningful engagement and skill development.

Curate and implement online learning tools, activities, and platforms that support specific areas of growth identified in the PCP.

Design skill-building activities that are both practical and engaging, tailored to enhance daily living, socialization, and independence.

Track and document data related to individual participation, engagement levels, and progress toward defined learning objectives.

Continuously assess the effectiveness of activities and adjust supports based on outcomes and individual feedback.

Grow With Us :

• Learning & Development Actively pursue ongoing professional development through trainings, workshops, and learning opportunities to enhance the quality of support provided.
• Model adaptability and creativity in addressing the diverse needs and goals of individuals served, setting a standard for excellence in direct support.
• Engage in team meetings and interdisciplinary discussions, offering thoughtful insights to improve support strategies and strengthen program effectiveness.
• Building Connections That Matter Build and sustain trusting, respectful relationships with individuals served, their families, caregivers, and community partners to support holistic and person-centered care.
• Collaborate closely with internal teams to ensure services are aligned with organizational goals and each individual's learning objectives and support needs.
• Serve as a compassionate advocate for individuals in community settings, promoting inclusion, access, and the exercise of personal rights.
• What You’ll Need to Join Our Team Education Bachelor’s degree in Special Education, Social Work, Recreational Therapy, Human Services, or a related field preferred.
• Alternatively, an associate degree with 3+ years of relevant experience in disability services will be considered.
• A high school diploma or GED with 4+ years of experience as a Direct Support Professional may also qualify.
• Experience & Qualifications Minimum of 2 years of experience providing direct support to individuals with IDD.
• Ability to develop and implement individualized learning and skill-building objectives.
• Experience in lesson or activity planning, educational support, or program coordination is preferred.
• Background in education, community-based services, outreach, or nonprofit environments is a plus.
• Physically able to assist with mobility or transfers when required.
• Valid Maryland driver’s license with a clean driving record and reliable transportation.
• Medication Technician Certification Program (MTTP) certification required (or willingness to obtain within 90 days).
• Current CPR / First Aid certification (or ability to obtain upon hire).

What We Value in a Team Member You’ll thrive here if you :

The Allied Advantage :