Direct Support Professional

Key Responsibilities

• Participant Support & Safety
• Demonstrate positive, respectful, and professional interactions with participants at all times.
• Support participants in making informed choices by presenting options, discussing pros and cons, and respecting decisions unless they pose a health or safety risk.
• Respond appropriately to medical or behavioral crises to ensure the safety of participants and staff; recognize and correct potential safety hazards.
• Complete all required trainings, including those related to behavioral crisis response.
• Communication & Collaboration
• Maintain strong, ongoing communication with the Center Manager, DSPs, Support Coordinators, families, providers, and community partners.
• Promote a positive image of the A&E Center and the people it serves through professional, collaborative communication.
• Assist with developing communication materials such as calendars and family/group home updates.
• Documentation & Administrative Support
• Ensure accurate and timely completion of daily documentation, including health and safety notes, progress toward goals, and incident reports.
• Assist with reviewing quarterly reports and participant files.
• Support DSPs in completing annual reports and ensure timely submission.
• Provide constructive feedback to the Center Manager regarding program operations and staff needs.
• Staff Support & Mentorship
• Welcome and mentor new DSPs, providing orientation to program expectations and culture.
• Serve as a point of contact and role model for DSPs, offering guidance, coaching, and support.
• Encourage teamwork and foster a positive workplace culture.
• Assist staff in developing or adapting creative strategies to best support participants.
• Program & Event Support
• Assist with planning, organizing, and leading program-wide events such as holiday parties, family gatherings, and other special activities.
• Participate in planning meetings and contribute creative ideas for programming.
• Support Club Arc by attending and assisting at least quarterly.
• Community Engagement
• Assist with tours for potential participants and families, presenting the A&E Center’s mission and services.
• Represent and promote the A&E Center at community tabling events to build awareness and relationships.
• Other Duties
• Perform additional tasks and responsibilities as assigned by the Center Manager to support overall program success.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; some college or training in human services preferred.
• Minimum 2 years of experience as a Direct Support Professional or in a related field.
• Strong interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to lead by example and support a team-oriented culture.
• Must have valid Florida driver's license with good driving record, be able to pass a DOT physical and be willing and able to drive agency vehicles.
• Must be able to pass background and drug screening.