Direct Support Professional-Hourly

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides compassionate, person-centered support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and behavioral health challenges in residential and community settings. DSPs play a vital role in helping individuals achieve greater independence, enhance their quality of life, and maintain their health, safety, and overall well-being.

Working as part of an interdisciplinary team, the DSP assists with daily living activities, community participation, skill development, and the implementation of individualized service plans. The ideal candidate is patient, dependable, and committed to promoting dignity, choice, inclusion, and personal growth.

• Provide direct care and supervision to individuals in residential settings.
• Assist with activities of daily living (ADLs), including:
  • Personal hygiene and grooming
  • Dressing and personal care
  • Meal planning and preparation
  • Household tasks and organization
• Support individuals in achieving goals outlined in their Individual Service Plans (ISP) and behavior support plans.
• Encourage independence, self-advocacy, and life skill development.
• Foster a safe, supportive, and respectful environment that preserves individual dignity and privacy.
• Utilize trauma-informed approaches and positive behavioral support strategies.

• Support participation in community activities, recreational programs, employment opportunities, educational programs, religious services, and family visits.
• Encourage meaningful social interactions and community engagement.
• Assist individuals in developing social, communication, and independent living skills.

• Monitor and support the health, safety, and well-being of individuals served.
• Administer medications and maintain required medication documentation in accordance with agency policies and state regulations.
• Implement prescribed healthcare plans and monitor for changes in condition.
• Identify, respond to, and report incidents, emergencies, safety concerns, or suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation.
• Maintain current CPR, First Aid, and other required certifications.

• Complete accurate and timely documentation, including:
  • Daily progress notes and activity logs
  • Medication administration records (MARs)
  • Incident and accident reports
  • Behavior tracking and goal progress documentation
  • Health monitoring records
  • Consumer fund documentation and receipts
  • Vehicle logs and other required agency forms
• Maintain confidentiality and comply with HIPAA regulations.
• Support licensing requirements, audits, inspections, and regulatory compliance activities.
• Attend required trainings, staff meetings, and supervision sessions.

• Safely transport individuals to appointments, community activities, employment programs, and other destinations.
• Assist with:
  • Grocery shopping
  • Meal planning and preparation
  • Housekeeping and organization
  • Basic home maintenance tasks
• Ensure residential environments remain clean, safe, and compliant with licensing standards.

• Collaborate effectively with Residential Managers, Lead DSPs, healthcare providers, families, and other team members.
• Assist in implementing individualized goals, services, and support plans.
• Participate in emergency response efforts, on-call coverage, and special projects as needed.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support quality services and organizational objectives.

• High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent.
• Minimum age of 21 years.
• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
• Ability to pass required background checks and clearances.
• Ability to successfully complete all required training, including CPR and First Aid certification.

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Human Services, Social Work, Psychology, Special Education, or a related field.
• Six (6) months to one (1) year of experience supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities or working in a human services environment.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to build positive relationships with individuals, families, and team members.
• Understanding of person-centered and trauma-informed care practices.
• Strong organizational, time management, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently while maintaining accountability.
• Strong documentation and recordkeeping skills.
• Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office, email, and electronic documentation systems.
• Ability to remain calm, professional, and effective during emergencies and crisis situations.
• Commitment to confidentiality, ethical standards, and quality care.

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, reach, stoop, and assist individuals throughout the workday.
• Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds or more, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Ability to operate a motor…