Respite Care Provider (Respite worker)

Job Description – Respite Care Provider

Position Title: Respite Care Provider (Respite worker)
Reports To: Primary Caregiver / INRespite Supervisor
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt (Hourly)
Hourly Rate: Starting at $17.50/hour, plus mileage reimbursement for client-related travel.

Position Summary

The Respite Care Provider is responsible for providing care, supervision, and companionship to individuals with developmental disabilities, as instructed by the primary caregiver. This position ensures client safety, supports daily living activities, and promotes meaningful engagement both at home and in the community.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Maintain client safety by providing continuous supervision and responding promptly to emergencies as they occur.
Support individuals in engaging in meaningful home and community activities.
Communicate effectively with clients using verbal, sign, gesture, visual, or assistive communication methods.
Assist clients with activities of daily living (ADLs), including:
bathing, grooming, restroom use, dressing/undressing, meal preparation and feeding, ambulation and transfers, and medication assistance (as directed by caregiver).
Manage challenging behaviors following caregiver instructions and client care plans.
Accompany and assist clients in routine appointments (e.g., physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy).
Document activities, incidents, and client updates accurately and in a timely manner.
Uphold INRespite’s mission of compassionate, respectful, and person-centered care at all times.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

This position regularly requires physical activity, including walking, standing, sitting, reaching, carrying, lifting, bending, twisting, stooping, and kneeling.
Employees must be able to assist in lifting, moving, and transferring clients between wheelchairs, toilets, beds, vehicles, and chairs.
May occasionally lift up to 50 pounds.
Work occurs in home and community settings and may involve exposure to various household environments.

Meal and Rest Breaks (California Compliance)

INRespite complies fully with all California wage and hour laws regarding meal and rest breaks.
Employees who work more than five (5) hours in a day will receive a 30-minute unpaid meal period, unless the total workday is six (6) hours or less and both the employee and employer mutually agree in writing to waive the meal period.
Employees are also provided with paid rest periods of at least ten (10) minutes for every four (4) hours worked (or major fraction thereof).
If the nature of the client’s care prevents the employee from being fully relieved of duty during a meal period (for example, if the client cannot be left unattended), the meal period will be treated as an on-duty, paid meal period in accordance with California law. A written on-duty meal period agreement will be maintained and may be revoked by the employee at any time.
INRespite will ensure either appropriate coverage for breaks or pay for any on-duty periods as required by law.

Education and Experience

High School Diploma or equivalent required.
Minimum of six (6) months of experience working with individuals needing supervision or support.
- Applicants with less than six months of experience may be considered if the family or caregiver specifically requests and provides appropriate training.
Must be able to read, write, and understand English proficiently.
Proficiency with basic computer use and internet access for completing documentation and training.

Skills and Competencies

Relationship Building: Develops positive, supportive, and professional relationships with clients and families.
Person-Centered Care: Provides individualized support in a respectful, responsive manner.
Initiative: Completes assignments independently and takes appropriate action when needed.
Decision-Making: Exercises sound judgment to maintain client safety in all settings.
Reliability: Consistently follows through on commitments and scheduled shifts.
Organization: Manages time effectively and prioritizes client needs.
Problem-Solving: Applies caregiver guidance and support plans to address challenges as they arise.

Minimum Requirements

Must be 18 years of age or older at the time of hire.
Must pass a criminal record clearance through the California Department of Justice.
Possess a valid California Driver’s License with at least two (2) years of licensed driving experience and a safe driving record.
Have access to a safe, reliable vehicle and maintain current auto insurance meeting California minimum coverage standards.
Obtain CPR and First Aid certification within 60 days of hire and maintain current certification thereafter.
Provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination or approved medical/religious exemption.
Must be available to work evenings and weekends as needed.
Must be able to perform essential physical tasks safely, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Compensation and Benefits

Starting hourly rate: $17.50 per hour
Mileage reimbursement for approved client transportation or work-related travel (in accordance with company policy)
Paid training and required certifications
Overtime pay in accordance with California labor laws
Compliance with all wage, hour, and break requirements under California law

Equal Employment Opportunity

INRespite is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic as defined by applicable state and federal law.