Direct Support Professional (54995)

DescriptionPOSITION SUMMARY

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides direct care, support, and companionship to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), helping them live full, independent, and self-directed lives within their homes and communities. The DSP promotes dignity, choice, and person-centered practices in all aspects of care.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Personal Care & Daily Living Support

• Assist individuals with activities of daily living (ADLs), including bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and mobility
• Support meal planning, preparation, and feeding as needed, accommodating special diets
• Administer medications per training and physician orders, and maintain accurate medication administration records (MARs)
• Monitor and document health status, reporting changes to supervisors, nurses, or medical professionals

Community & Social Engagement

• Support individuals in community integration activities (shopping, recreation, appointments, employment, volunteering)
• Facilitate participation in social, educational, and recreational activities aligned with personal interests and goals
• Provide transportation to appointments, activities, and community outings

Person-Centered Planning & Skill Building

• Implement individual support plans (ISPs) and behavior support plans as directed
• Teach and reinforce skills that promote independence (budgeting, cooking, hygiene, communication, social skills)
• Support individuals in making informed choices and self-advocacy

Health & Safety

• Maintain a safe, clean, and healthy living environment
• Respond appropriately to emergencies, including administering first aid/CPR as needed
• Follow all infection control, universal precautions, and safety protocols
• Recognize and report signs of abuse, neglect, or exploitation per mandated reporting requirements

Documentation & Compliance

• Maintain accurate and timely documentation (progress notes, incident reports, data collection)
• Adhere to HIPAA, agency policies, and state/federal regulations governing IDD services
• Attend required trainings (CPR/First Aid, medication administration, behavior support, abuse prevention, etc.)

Communication & Teamwork

• Communicate effectively with individuals served, families, guardians, and interdisciplinary team members
• Participate in team meetings, trainings, and care plan reviews
• Collaborate with nurses, therapists, case managers, and other professionals

QualificationsQUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or GED
• Valid driver's license and clean driving record (if transporting individuals)
• Must be at least 18 years of age
• Pass background check, drug screening, and required health screenings (TB test, etc.)
• Ability to obtain CPR/First Aid certification and complete state-mandated DSP training

JOB REQUIREMENTS / EXPECTATIONS

Skills and Competencies

• Patience, compassion, and genuine commitment to person-centered care
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to remain calm and use sound judgment in emergencies or crisis situations
• Basic computer skills for documentation
• Reliability and punctuality
• Cultural competency and respect for diversity

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift/transfer individuals (specify weight, e.g., up to 50 lbs) with or without assistive devices
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and kneel for extended periods
• Ability to respond quickly in emergency situations

CORE VALUES

All employees must be willing to live our company's core values.

Integrity – Exhibiting the highest moral, ethical and legal standards. Doing the right thing – even when no one else is looking.

Teamwork – Putting team success over personal success. Actively valuing the strengths and talents of others.

Trust/Respect– Seeing and believing in the good intentions of others. Interacting with others in a way that makes them feel valued. Listening without judging. Offering understanding and acceptance.

Care/Compassion – Demonstrating unconditional kindness, concern and empathy. Exhibiting genuine concern for others.

Ownership/Accountability – Taking personal responsibility for one’s work, actions and feelings. Accepting responsibility for and learning from mistakes.