Direct Support Professional (PT, State College

Direct Support Professional (Part-Time in State College, PA)

Reportable to the assigned Supervisor or Program Coordinator, the Direct Support Professional provides support and care to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and/or autism in their homes and communities. The overall goal of the Direct Support Professional is to carry out The Arc of Centre County’s mission – to embody and protect the human rights of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and to practice person-centered planning which actively supports their full inclusion and participation in the community throughout their lifetimes.

The DSP will be assigned to work in a community home (or homes) owned by The Arc.

Additional Benefits for All Employees:

• New Hire Referral Bonuses up to $600
• Paid Training (26 hours per year)
• Mileage reimbursement (if applicable for community-based roles)
• Retirement Plan Options
• Holiday pay or differential pay for eligible shifts

• Provide direct support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and/or autism in their homes and communities
• Assist with daily living skills such as cooking, cleaning, personal hygiene, shopping, and budgeting
• Support individuals in building independence, communication skills, and self-advocacy
• Encourage and facilitate community participation, social activities, and meaningful relationships
• Provide safe transportation to appointments, activities, and community outings
• Administer medications and provide basic health-related support as trained and assigned
• Monitor health and safety, respond appropriately in emergencies, and follow all safety procedures
• Complete accurate, timely documentation, including daily notes and incident reports
• Follow each individual’s support plan and implement services as written
• Maintain confidentiality and follow all HIPAA, agency, and regulatory requirements
• Work collaboratively with coworkers, families, guardians, and outside professionals
• Maintain a safe, clean, and supportive environment in homes and community settings
• Participate in required trainings, meetings, and ongoing professional development

To perform this position successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:

Leadership

Skills:

Demonstrates ethics and integrity; shows initiative and responsibility; is willing to learn and grow; adapts to change; communicates effectively; values diversity; and builds positive working relationships.

Communication

Skills:

Speaks and writes clearly and professionally; follows written instructions accurately; and pays close attention to detail when reading and documenting information.

Teamwork: Works well as part of a team by supporting coworkers and contributing to shared goals. Maintains a positive attitude, is open to feedback, and helps create a respectful and collaborative work environment.

Quality of Work: Pays attention to detail and accuracy. Strives to improve performance, uses feedback constructively, and ensures work is completed correctly and consistently.

Independence & Time Management: Works independently under supervision, prioritizes tasks effectively, manages time well, and completes responsibilities on time or communicates when adjustments are needed.

Interpersonal

Skills:

Interacts respectfully and professionally with people from diverse backgrounds. Maintains confidentiality and remains open to others’ perspectives.

Financial Responsibility: Handles money and financial records accurately and responsibly, including individual funds and agency-related expenses.

• 18 years of age or older.
• High School Diploma or equivalent. Previous experience working with individuals with an intellectual disability, behavioral health and/or medical needs is preferred (but not required).
• Essential physical skills – be able to run, squat, stoop/bend, kneel, climb stairs, be able to lift at least 50 pounds (or ¼ own body weight), push and pull against potential resistance; and be able to implement non-physical and physical interventions and CPR with people supported when needed.
• Adequate vision, reading, writing and documentation skills and hearing to perform the…