Direct Service Professional (DSP)

Position Overview

The Direct Service Professional (DSP) provides hands-on care, instruction, supervision, and engagement to individuals with developmental disabilities in residential, educational, recreational, and community settings. DSPs work collaboratively with program managers and team members to implement individualized support plans that promote independence, daily living skills, socialization, recreation, and community integration. Schedules may vary by program and can include daytime, evenings, weekends, and community-based assignments.

What You’ll Do

Depending on program placement, responsibilities may include:

• Assist with activities of daily living (ADLs), including feeding, dressing, hygiene, toileting, grooming, and personal care.
• Support individuals in building independence in home management, cooking, shopping, and daily routines.
• Provide compassionate supervision and ensure participant safety at all times.
• Implement structured lesson plans and daily activity schedules.
• Support adult education, life skills training, and goal progress monitoring.
• Modify activities to meet individual needs and abilities.
• Lead and participate in indoor and outdoor recreational activities.
• Plan and support outings, field trips, and community events.
• Promote social integration and positive peer interaction.
• Administer medications (Residential settings) following agency policies.
• Maintain accurate documentation, including case notes, attendance, goal tracking, and incident reports.
• Provide basic first aid and CPR when necessary.
• Follow emergency procedures and safety guidelines.
• Transport participants to community activities, day programs, and appointments (valid FL driver's license required).
• Maintain required logs and documentation accurately and timely.
• Communicate regularly with supervisors, families, and team members.

What You Bring

We are seeking caring professionals who demonstrate:

• Patience, compassion, and a genuine passion for serving neurodiverse individuals
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Organizational and time-management skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Sound judgment and professionalism
• Adaptability in dynamic environments
• Basic computer proficiency (Microsoft Office or similar)

Education & Experience Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED required
• At least one year of experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities, in direct care, childcare, medical, psychiatric, or related settings preferred
• College coursework in social services or related field preferred but not required
• Valid Florida Driver's License and required auto insurance
• Ability to pass required background checks and drug-free workplace requirements

Physical Requirements

• Walking, standing, bending, kneeling, and lifting (up to 20–50 pounds depending on assignment)
• Assisting individuals with mobility and daily living needs
• Driving to various program and community locations
• Indoor and outdoor work environments

Why You’ll Love Working Here

At The Arc of Palm Beach County, you'll join a mission-driven team that values inclusion, teamwork, and professional growth. We offer:

• Affordable comprehensive medical insurance
• FREE dental and vision insurance
• Paid life insurance and disability coverage
• Flexible Spending Account
• Bonus days off the week before New Year's
• Paid holidays, vacation, and PTO
• Retirement plan
• A supportive and inclusive workplace culture