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Day Program Jobs in Merrillville, IN (NOW HIRING)

Special Education Teacher - Chicago

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Merlin Day Academy is an intensive therapeutic day program providing education and therapeutic intervention in a supportive classroom environment for children ages 6-14 with autism, AHD, sensory ...

Office Manager - Chicago (WL)

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Blue Bird Day, a leading intensive pediatric therapeutic day program, is seeking a dedicated and compassionate office-based Office Manager (OM) to support the daily operations in our Chicago, IL ...

New

Office Manager - Chicago (WL)

Chicago, IL

$60K - $70K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Blue Bird Day, a leading intensive pediatric therapeutic day program, is seeking a dedicated and compassionate office-based Office Manager (OM) to support the daily operations in our Chicago, IL ...

New

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Showing results 1-20

Day Program information

See Merrillville, IN salary details

$24.5K

$51.4K

$88.8K

How much do day program jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for day program in Merrillville, IN is $51,362.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,200.00 and $58,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a day program?

A Day Program job involves supporting individuals with disabilities, seniors, or those needing assistance in a structured daytime setting. Responsibilities typically include facilitating activities, providing personal care, fostering social engagement, and ensuring a safe environment. Staff may assist with life skills development, educational programs, and community outings. The goal is to enhance participants' quality of life and promote independence.

What are the typical daily responsibilities in a day program position?

In a Day Program role, your daily responsibilities generally include planning and facilitating group activities, supporting individual client goals, and assisting with daily living skills when needed. You may also be responsible for documenting progress, communicating with family members or care managers, and helping to create a safe and engaging environment. Collaboration with other staff, therapists, and sometimes community partners is common to ensure well-rounded support for participants. The role can be dynamic and rewarding, providing opportunities to make a real impact in clients' lives through structured routines and creative programming.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a day program position, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Day Program role, you need a background in social services, special education, or a related field, supported by experience working with individuals with developmental or behavioral challenges. Knowledge of individualized support planning, data documentation systems, and certifications such as CPR/First Aid are often required. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and effective teamwork make employees excel in this position. These abilities are crucial for delivering meaningful support, ensuring client safety, and fostering a positive group environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Program jobs in Merrillville, IN?

The most popular types of Program jobs in Merrillville, IN are:

What job categories do people searching Day Program jobs in Merrillville, IN look for?

The top searched job categories for Day Program jobs in Merrillville, IN are:

What cities near Merrillville, IN are hiring for Day Program jobs?

Cities near Merrillville, IN with the most Day Program job openings:

Infographic showing various Day Program job openings in Merrillville, IN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 29% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,362 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Direct Support Professional- Thrive Day Program

CTF Illinois

Tinley Park, IL โ€ข On-site

$19.55 - $20.55/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post hasย expired 1 day ago.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Developmental Trainer / Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Make a Differenceโ€”Every Day

Full-Time | Day Program & Community-Based Services
Mondayโ€“Friday (Daytime Hours)
No Holidays or Weekends

Pay Rate:ย $19.55/hour to start with an additional $1/hr after PACE certification!ย 

Support growth. Build skills. Create meaningful community connections.

CTF Illinois is hiring Developmental Trainers / Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to support adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in day programs and community settings. This role focuses on teaching life skills, promoting independence, and supporting meaningful daily activities.

If you enjoy working with people, staying active in the community, and helping others succeed, we will train the right candidates.


What Youโ€™ll Do

  • Support individuals with skill development, including communication, social skills, and self-advocacy
  • Assist with structured day program activities and community outings
  • Follow individual service plans and behavior support strategies
  • Encourage independence, choice, and positive daily routines
  • Complete daily documentation related to services and individual goals
  • Collaborate with supervisors and team members
  • Transport individuals to and from day program settings using company vehicles (car, mini-van, or shuttle bus)

What We Offer

  • Health insurance, with optional vision and dental coverage (full-time employees)
  • Vacation and paid sick leave for all employees
  • 401(k) with company matching
  • Company-paid life insurance and short-term disability (after 6 months for full-time employees)
  • Cell phone stipend
  • Overtime opportunities
  • Paid training and required certifications

About CTF Illinois

CTF Illinois is dedicated to helping people with intellectual and developmental disabilities reach their full potential through the power of Communities That Transform Futures. Our success is measured by the lives we touch through high-quality, person-centered programs and services.

Our work is fueled by dedicated staff, caring volunteers, and generous donors. We offer a wide range of community-based programs designed to meet the unique needs, goals, and choices of each individual we serve, supporting people and their families throughout every stage of life.

CTF Illinois is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Requirements

  • Must be at least 18 years old
  • Accredited high school diploma or GED
  • Successful completion of criminal, DCFS, and MVR background checks
  • Valid driverโ€™s license with a satisfactory driving record
  • Ability to pass PACE physical and drug test
  • Experience in education, social services, recreation, behavioral health, or caregiving is a plusโ€”but not required