Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Summary
The Direct Support Professional supports adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) with daily living skills, personal care, community engagement, and skill development. This position promotes dignity, independence, and quality of life while maintaining safety and compliance standards. Transportation of individuals may be required.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Assist with personal care (bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, hygiene)

• Support medication monitoring and health-related needs (vitals, weights, medical appointments)

• Document daily progress notes, incident reports, medication sheets, and care-related data

• Implement individual service plans and behavior strategies as directed

• Support community access, recreational activities, and social inclusion

• Assist with feeding, dietary needs, food preparation, and menu planning

• Transport individuals as assigned using agency vehicles

• Provide housekeeping support (laundry, cleaning, bed-making, household safety)

• Teach and support independent living skills, rights, financial literacy, and social skills

• Follow safety protocols, Universal Precautions, and Bloodborne Pathogen standards

• Communicate effectively with individuals, families, supervisors, and interdisciplinary teams

• Report hazards, repairs, and safety concerns immediately

• Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required

• Experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities preferred

• Ability to remain calm in stressful situations and respond to emergencies

• Reliable, punctual, and able to work collaboratively in a team environment

• Strong verbal and written communication skills

• Ability to lift, assist, and engage in physical activities as needed

• Knowledge of personal care and caregiving best practices preferred

• Compassion, patience, and care-giving skills required