Join Our Team
Meaningful Employment, Competitive Salary, Excellent Benefits
A career at Unity House is empowering - for the people we support and for our employees.
We offer flexible schedules. Work as much or as little as you want.
Unity House seeks caring people to help us support adults with mental illnesses, developmental disabilities, and/or chemical dependencies. Unity House provides competitive pay and one of the area's most comprehensive benefits packages to make sure our employees have what they need to deliver on our mission.
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Employee Benefits
Unity House offers full-time benefits for employees who work at least 30 hours per week.
See how we are empowering our staff to live healthier, happier lives.
Volunteer for Unity House
Notices for Applicants
What is a DSP?
A Direct Support Professional (DSP) is a frontline caregiver who supports people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, mental health needs, or substance use challenges. DSPs help the people we support live safely, build independence, develop life skills, and participate in their communities.
Approximately 75% of our more than 400 employees work in direct support roles across our residential and day habilitation programs. Our DSPs serve in a variety of positions, including Residence Counselors and Community Integration Specialists.
Learn more about these roles below.
Residence Counselors support people with disabilities in residential settings such as group homes (IRAs) and apartments, helping them maintain a safe, comfortable home while building independence. Responsibilities include assisting with daily routines, personal care, meal preparation, health and safety, and individualized goals.
Community Integration Specialists help people with disabilities develop skills, build relationships, and engage in meaningful activities at Unity House's day habilitation programs and in the community. They encourage social connections, independence, self-advocacy, and participation in recreational, educational, and community experiences.
Higher pay, bigger impact!
Direct Support Professional (DSP) Base Pay as of 2026:
- Residential: $19.00/hr (Residence Counselors)
- +$0.50/hr for weekend shifts
- Day Services: $18.00/hr (Community Integration Specialists)
Add-ons (Stackable)
Plus, earn hourly bonuses for any combination of the following:
The National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP) is committed to supporting your career as a Direct Support Professional. NADSP certification elevates your role, strengthens your professional recognition, and promotes growth through higher standards and ongoing development. As you advance through the certification levels, you’ll receive hourly bonuses that reflect your commitment and progress.
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DSP-I: You receive an additional $0.25 per hour
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DSP-II: You receive an additional $0.50 per hour
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DSP-III: You receive an additional $1.00 per hour
As a Direct Support Professional at Unity House, you are eligible to attend the OPWDD-approved medication administration course (AMAP) once you:
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Successfully complete New Employee Week training
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Obtain certification in CPR and First Aid
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Reach your 90-day mark of employment
Upon completion of AMAP training, you’ll earn an additional $1.00 per hour.
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If you have an Associate’s Degree, you receive an additional $0.75 per hour.
OR
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If you have a Bachelor’s Degree, you receive an additional $1.50 per hour.
If you hold a CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) or HHA (Home Health Aide) license recognized by the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH), you will earn an additional $1.00 per hour.