Direct Service Professional (DSP) (General Pool

Description

Direct Service Professional (DSP) (General Pool)

Employment Type: Full-Time, Part-Time, & Per Diem

Location Options: Inglewood | East Los Angeles | Downtown Los Angeles | Long Beach | Claremont | Crestline | Pasadena

Schedule: Varies by program (Monday–Friday, with some evenings/weekends)

Pay: From $20.00 per hour

At Ability First, we look beyond disabilities, focus on capabilities, and expand possibilities. Our team supports children and adults with developmental and physical disabilities to live more independent, fulfilling lives.

We’re building a general candidate pool for Direct Service Professionals (DSP) across multiple locations, meaning if you apply, you may be considered for current and future openings that match your availability and preferences.

• Multiple locations across Southern California.
• Flexible schedules (full-time, part-time, per diem).
• Entry‑level friendly with paid training.
• Meaningful, hands‑on work that makes a difference every day.
• Growth opportunities in human services and behavioral health

As a Direct Service Professional (DSP), you’ll work directly with participants to support daily activities, personal goals, and community engagement. This is a hands‑on, active role where you’ll build relationships, support independence, and create meaningful experiences.

• Actively supervise participants at all times; ensure health, safety, and engagement.
• Work within the designated staffing ratio throughout the program day.
• Implement daily activities and lesson plans that reflect each participant’s Person‑Centered Plan (PCP) goals.
• Create and facilitate engaging, inclusive group activities.
• Collaborate with team members to develop monthly activity calendars for assigned groups.

• Complete accurate and timely daily documentation of participant goal progress.
• Report and document any case notes or significant participant concerns immediately.
• Maintain confidentiality and uphold the dignity and rights of all participants.

• For community care licensed programs, assist participants with all aspects of personal care including:
• Feeding, diapering (may include use of hoyer lift), toileting, and hygiene needs.
• Support participants in swimming activities as needed.

• Supervise and support participants ensuring safety and active engagement.
• Help participants access volunteer opportunities in the community.
• Drive agency vehicles or accompany participants on public transportation as needed once approved as an AF driver.

• Complete all required staff training including but not limited to:
  Active supervision, behavior support, lifting/transferring, feeding/personal care, and safety protocols.
• Participate in ongoing training, coaching, and staff meetings to support professional growth and participant outcomes.

• Uphold our commitment as a Mandated Reporter, ensuring the safety and well‑being of all participants.
• Complete all required staff training assigned each quarter.
• Other duties and responsibilities as assigned to support the mission of the program and organization.

• We’re looking for people who are compassionate, reliable, and motivated to help others succeed.
• Experience in direct care, personal assistance, or support services.
• Comfort with personal care needs including feeding, hygiene, and mobile support.
• A team player who leads with patience, compassion, and consistency.
• Experience in these roles is a plus:
• Direct Support Professional (DSP), Caregiver, Behavioral Technician, Paraprofessional, Teacher, Instructional Aide, Behavioral Therapist, CNA, Home Health Aide, or similar.
• No experience? No problem. This is an entry‑level role, and we welcome candidates who are new to the field. If you have the right attitude and willingness to learn, we’ll provide the training and support you need.

• A High School diploma or equivalent is required.
• A Bachelor’s Degree in a related field or equivalent experience is preferred.
• 12 ECE (Early Childhood Education) college units in any related field may be…