Direct Support Professional | Grand Rapids, MI

Direct Support Professional | DART - Kentwood 

Make a real impact—help someone build independence while building a career, you’re proud of.

As a Direct Support Professional (DSP) at DART, you’ll support children and teens ages 7–18 with behavioral and developmental diagnoses in a residential setting. This role is ideal for someone who is patient, adaptable, and ready to make a difference in the lives of young people who need a high level of support.

You’ll work directly with children who may exhibit high-intensity behaviors and require full, hands-on assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), including personal care and daily routines. Through consistency, compassion, and a structured approach, you’ll help create a safe environment where each child can develop skills, work toward greater independence, and experience meaningful progress.

What You’ll Do

• Provide hands-on ADL and personal care assistance.

• Support children ages 7–18 with behavioral and developmental diagnoses and high-intensity behaviors.

• Follow individualized care plans and behavioral support strategies.

• Assist with medications, daily routines, and activities.

• Maintain a safe, structured environment.

• Build relationships and encourage skill development and independence.

• Collaborate with teammates to provide consistent, person-centered care.

What We’re Looking For

• Compassionate, dependable, and team-oriented
• Strong communication and ability to build trust
• Adaptable, patient, and resilient
• Person-centered mindset with respect for individual differences

What You Bring

Required:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Valid driver’s license
• Ability to lift 50 lbs.
• Ability to pass background checks and fingerprints
• Ability to obtain CPR/First Aid certification

 Top Benefits

• Competitive pay
• Medical, dental & vision insurance (may vary based on job status)
• Virtual Concierge Medical Services
• 403(b) retirement with company match (up to 3%)
• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Paid training + career growth opportunities
• Tuition reimbursement and scholarship opportunities
• Employee Assistance Program (mental health + support)
• Company-paid life insurance

Why Hope Network

Not your average job. Not your average impact.

At Hope Network, you’re not just filling a role—you’re showing up for someone who needs consistency, encouragement, and support. Every day looks different, but one thing stays the same: what you do matters.

Our teams are built on trust, collaboration, and a shared commitment to those we serve. We believe no human is more valuable than the next—and the work you do here truly matters.

Apply today and start making a difference.

 

Experience

Preferred

• Previous experience working with children or in healthcare is strongly preferred.

Education

Required

• High School Graduate or better

Licenses & Certifications

Required

• - Driver's License

Behaviors

Preferred

• Team Player: Works well as a member of a group
• Enthusiastic: Shows intense and eager enjoyment and interest
• Detail Oriented: Capable of carrying out a given task with all details necessary to get the task done well
• Dedicated: Devoted to a task or purpose with loyalty or integrity

Motivations

Preferred

• Work-Life Balance: Inspired to perform well by having ample time to pursue work and interests outside of work
• Self-Starter: Inspired to perform without outside help
• Growth Opportunities: Inspired to perform well by the chance to take on more responsibility
• Ability to Make an Impact: Inspired to perform well by the ability to contribute to the success of a project or the organization

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.