Direct Support Professional; Youth

Overview

At Albertina Kerr, we believe that all people thrive in nurturing and inclusive communities. Our mission is to empower people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and mental health challenges to lead self-determined lives in their communities.

You will join our youth group homes as a Direct Support Professional (DSP). You’ll work with a collaborative, multidisciplinary team—including DSPs, Behavior Specialists, Therapists, Skills Trainers, and Psychiatrists—to support youth ages 10–17 with developmental and mental health needs (dual diagnosis). Each home supports up to four youth with unique backgrounds, strengths, and goals.

• You’ll help youth build social, emotional regulation, and advocacy skills.
• You’ll help youth develop independence in daily living.
• You’ll help youth strengthen relationships and community connections.

Daily responsibilities vary but often include supporting morning and bedtime routines, school preparation, after-school activities, meals, and household tasks. You’ll also collaborate with families and care teams to ensure consistent, high-quality support.

At times, you may support youth who are dysregulated due to trauma or skill gaps. In these moments, you’ll model emotional regulation, use approved strategies to maintain safety, and focus on relationship-building and repair. We believe all people do well if they can, and your role is to support youth in building the skills they need to succeed.

• Center youth and meet them where they are—on both good and challenging days.
• Provide consistency and positive adult support.
• Are open to learning strategies for supporting dual diagnoses.
• Understand the impact of trauma on behavior.

• Build safe, trusting relationships with youth.
• Support daily living needs, including personal care.
• Help youth develop skills for independence and adulthood.
• Follow behavior support plans and ensure safety.
• Collaborate with families, medical professionals, and team members.
• Monitor health and well-being.
• Support youth in the community and across program needs.
• Although assigned to a primary group home, support may be needed at other group homes.
• Other duties as assigned or needed.

• Paid 2-week training program to teach you the skills you need
• 100% paid medical/dental/vision plans
• Paid holidays and generous paid time off

• At least 18 years old
• Great social skills
• Ability to pass a background check
• Ability to lift, push and pull 50 pounds
• Knows basic cooking skills and willing to learn new recipes
• Knows basic cleaning skills
• Willing to be flexible and learn new skills
• Licensed driver with at least two years' driving experience required for day and swing shifts
• Preference for applicants who can work at least one weekend day