The Arc is the world’s largest nonprofit, community-based organization advocating for and serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). At The Arc of East Central Iowa, we’re driven by the mission to create a more inclusive world for everyone.

Fulfilling this vision requires passion and a diversity of skills and background. Want to be part of something big? Help us make a difference and join us in the fight for inclusion!

Working at The Arc

See what our colleagues have to say about working with our passionate team at The Arc of East Central Iowa.

What is a Direct Service Provider (DSP)

  • Responsible for direct care and supervision to individuals with disabilities.
  • Responsible for maintaining communication and documentation with clients and service teams.
  • Emphasis on skill-building, socialization, personal care, self-advocacy, recreation, and community inclusion.

Full Time Administrative Opening

Employment Specialist

  • Location: The Arc’s Downtown Location
  • Hours: Monday – Friday Daytime Hours
  • Job Summary: Finding a meaningful job is important to all of us, but it is especially difficult for those with disabilities. In this rewarding position, you will work with individuals to identify their skills and desires, and match that with employment opportunities in the community.

    As an Employment Specialist you will develop and implement individualized employment plans for people with disabilities through The Arc’s Supported Employment Program. Activities include Customized Discovery, Assessment, and Job Training to prepare and support individuals to be competitively employed. The Employment Specialist will work closely with the individual and community partners to ensure appropriate and successful job opportunities and placements. Employment Specialist will attend team meetings and submit reports on assessed progress, barriers, and needs, as required by funders.

    High school diploma or GED required, associate’s degree and experience providing employment services preferred. Must have excellent verbal and written communication skills. Valid Driver License required. Must be at least 18 to apply.

    This is a full-time, benefit eligible position including PTO, health, vision, and dental insurance with pay starting at $18.35.

Apply Online


Full Time DSP Openings

Day Habilitation DSP

  • Location: The Arc’s Downtown Location
  • Hours: Monday – Friday Daytime Hours
  • Job Summary: Day Habilitation DSPs are responsible for direct care and supervision of individuals with disabilities. This includes providing oversight to participants to assist in the development of skills in the area of self-help, communication, personal care, self-advocacy, recreation, and other areas defined in the participant’s care plan. Finally, this position will serve as a role model for participants in a variety of community settings.

    Must be at least 18 to apply. High school diploma required. Valid Driver’s License preferred. Experience working with persons with disabilities a plus. Candidates should have effective problem solving skills, leadership qualities and strong written/verbal communication skills and the ability to teach program participants daily living skills and competencies.

    This is a full-time, benefit eligible position including health, dental, vision, 401k, PTO and more.

Apply Online


Part Time DSP Openings

Home and Community DSP

  • Location: Individual homes and in the community
  • Hours: All shifts available
  • Job Summary: Join our team today! Learn why one of our DSPs stated what she liked most about her job was… to improve individual’s lives, make a difference within your community, and have fun at your job all at the same time.

    You will be assigned shifts with individuals to work one on one to develop skills including socialization, self-help, communication, personal care, recreation, and other areas defined in the individual’s training plan.

    If you are looking for a rewarding opportunity to coordinate and deliver Arc services to participants in their home or in the community, apply today!

Apply Online


Equal Opportunity Employer

The Arc of East Central Iowa is an equal opportunity. The Arc considers applicants for employment without regard to age, race, religion, color, sex, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, or pregnancy, and to provide equal opportunities to disabled veterans, veterans of the Vietnam era, other veterans, and individuals with a disability, and any other characteristics protected by federal, state and local law. All employees of The Arc of East Central Iowa are considered “at will”.