Direct Support Professional

Are you a caring and motivated individual? Do you enjoy building relationships and contributing to a positive environment? Do you have a passion for helping individuals develop independence and achieve personal goals? Are you looking for a career with a purpose? Join the Aspire team as a 1:1 Direct Support Professional (DSP) today! We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated DSP to provide person-centered support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Your role will promote self-directed lives, independence, community integration, and overall well-being. You will maintain a caseload of individuals with higher support needs and implement behavioral strategies that increase communication, independence, and overall quality of life.

The DSP serves as a strong advocate to ensure each individual’s rights, safety, and well-being are protected at all times. In collaboration with interdisciplinary team members, the DSP works to help individuals achieve their identified personal goals and maximize their independence.

• Serve as a positive role model and mentor, demonstrating desired behaviors and encouraging self-expression.
• Utilize approved coaching techniques and proactive behavioral interventions.
• Implement de-escalation strategies and approved physical intervention techniques when necessary to ensure safety.
• Complete accurate and timely documentation in accordance with agency policies and procedures.

• Under the supervision of a BCBA, implement individualized Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs).
• Teach new skills by breaking down complex tasks into manageable steps.
• Use evidence-based practices such as prompting, reinforcement, and repetition to promote learning and independence.

• Accurately track target behaviors throughout each shift.
• Enter behavioral data into agency-approved data collection software.

• Create structured, engaging environments that encourage positive behavior and learning.
• Arrange materials, activities, and routines to promote skill development and reduce barriers to success.
• Participate in individualized community outings to promote generalization of skills.

• Support individuals in achieving personal goals and honoring their choices, beliefs, and interests.
• Encourage self-advocacy and uphold individual rights at all times.
• Actively engage individuals in activities that promote physical fitness, social interaction, community participation, and education.
• Implement Individual Service Plans (ISP), Behavior Enrichment Plans, and Health/Wellness Plans in collaboration with the support team.

• Promote preventative care and overall wellness.
• Monitor self-administered medications in accordance with physician instructions and agency policy.
• Maintain current First Aid/CPR certification and respond appropriately in emergencies.
• Provide support during medical appointments as needed.

• Assist with daily living activities including eating, grooming, dressing, bathing, and toileting.
• Support mobility needs, including lifting (up to 75 lbs.), transfers, and safe ambulation.
• Utilize adaptive equipment as required.

• Maintain cleanliness and organization of homes, offices, and vehicles.
• Follow all safety protocols and complete incident reports as required.
• Safely transport individuals while adhering to all traffic laws.

• Maintain professionalism in all interactions with participants, families, staff, and community partners.
• Demonstrate cultural sensitivity, respect, and confidentiality.
• Complete required documentation promptly and accurately.
• Participate in required certifications and trainings including (but not limited to):
  • QBS Safety Care
  • CPR/First Aid
  • Clinical Training
  • Rule 50 Abuse & Neglect
  • RBT Certification Series 3.0

• High School Diploma or GED
• Minimum 21 years of age
• Valid Illinois Driver’s License with good driving record
• Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and occasional holidays
• Intermediate proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and standard office systems

• Experience supporting adults with intellectual…