Direct Support Professional-Hourly

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Department: Residential Services

Service Line: Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD)

Reports To: Residential Manager

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Location: New Jersey

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides compassionate, person-centered support to individuals with intellectual, developmental, and behavioral health challenges. Working as part of an interdisciplinary team, the DSP assists individuals in achieving greater independence, improving their quality of life, and maintaining their health, safety, and well-being. This role involves supporting daily living activities, implementing individualized service plans, promoting community inclusion, and ensuring compliance with agency and regulatory requirements.

• Assist individuals with activities of daily living, including personal hygiene, meal preparation, housekeeping, shopping, and community participation.
• Promote independence and self-sufficiency while respecting individual dignity, privacy, and personal choice.
• Support individuals in achieving goals outlined in their Individual Service Plan (ISP), Individual Habilitation Plan (IHP), and Behavior Support Plan (BSP).
• Foster positive relationships and encourage community engagement, social inclusion, and skill development.
• Provide care using trauma-informed practices and person-centered approaches.
• Monitor individuals’ health, safety, and emotional well-being and respond appropriately to concerns.

• Administer medications in accordance with agency policies and state regulations.
• Observe and report changes in physical, behavioral, or emotional health.
• Implement prescribed healthcare programs and document services accurately.
• Respond to emergencies and crisis situations using approved intervention techniques.

• Complete all required documentation accurately and timely, including:
  • Daily logs and progress notes
  • Medication administration records (MARs)
  • Goal tracking and ISP documentation
  • Incident reports
  • Behavioral and health-related tracking forms
  • Vehicle and transportation logs
  • Consumer funds documentation
• Maintain confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA and agency standards.
• Follow all agency policies, procedures, and Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) licensing requirements.

• Safely transport individuals to medical appointments, day programs, recreational activities, religious services, family visits, and community events.
• Maintain a valid driver's license and comply with all motor vehicle laws and agency transportation policies.
• Assist individuals in accessing community resources and participating in meaningful activities.

• Attend staff meetings, trainings, and required agency events.
• Complete all mandatory certifications and training, including CPR, First Aid, and competency-based training.
• Collaborate effectively with supervisors, coworkers, families, healthcare providers, and other community partners.
• Participate in on-call duties and assist during emergency situations as needed.
• Support special projects and other duties assigned by leadership.

• High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent.
• Valid driver's license with a satisfactory driving record.
• Minimum age of 21 years.
• Ability to pass required background screenings, including criminal history, abuse registry, and drug screening.
• Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English.

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Human Services, Psychology, Social Work, or a related field.
• Six months to one year of experience supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities or in a human services setting.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
• Knowledge of developmental disabilities and person-centered support practices.
• Understanding of trauma-informed care principles.
• Strong organizational, documentation, and time-management skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Sound judgment and problem-solving abilities.
• Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office and electronic documentation systems.
• Ability to manage stressful situations calmly and professionally.

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, reach, and climb stairs throughout the workday.
• Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to safely assist individuals with mobility and personal care needs.
• Ability to drive for extended periods as required.
• Ability to work in residential and community-based settings.

This position requires flexibility, including the ability to work evenings, weekends, holidays, overnight shifts, and varying schedules based on program and individual needs.

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