Direct Support Professional (DSP)

About the Role

As a Direct Support Professional at DABS, Inc., you will be a valued member of a mission-driven team dedicated to empowering adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. You will join our team in one of two vital tracks: Personal Attendant (PA) or Skills Instructor (SI), working in both home and community settings. Final job assignment will depend on program needs, experience, and availability.

Personal Attendant Responsibilities

• Provide consistent, person-centered supervision within the individual’s home and community.
• Supervise and provide occasional hands-on support for Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), including:
  • Bathing, toileting, dressing, and personal hygiene
  • Preparing meals and feeding
  • Light housekeeping and laundry
• Supervise medication administration when needed.
• Accompany and/or transport the individual to medical and personal appointments.
• Observe and report changes in health, behavior, and/or environments to the supervisor.
• Complete daily logs and progress notes in compliance with DDS, Regional Center, and agency standards.
• Participate in interdisciplinary meetings and other activities as needed.

Skills Instructor Responsibilities

• Teach independent living skills including cooking, meal planning, household management, budgeting, shopping, and personal organization.
• Assist individuals with scheduling, daily routines, and personal responsibilities.
• Support individuals in accessing and participating in community activities, including volunteering, education, vocational exploration, recreation, and social events.
• Promote health, safety, and wellness through instruction in personal care, healthy habits, and community safety.
• Reinforce self-advocacy skills, decision-making abilities, and personal goal setting.
• Use de-escalation techniques to ensure the safety of the individual and the public during community-based activities.
• Complete daily logs and progress notes in compliance with DDS, Regional Center, and agency standards.
• Participate in interdisciplinary meetings and other activities as needed.

Requirements

• 0-3 years of experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities.
• Ability to maintain professional relationships with families and stakeholders.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and implement established care plans.
• Ability to maintain high standards of professional ethics, including punctual attendance.
• Ability to provide care with empathy, cultural sensitivity, and respect for personal values.
• Ability to communicate clearly and document observations accurately.
• Ability to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.

Employment is contingent upon successfully passing a background check and maintaining the following requirements throughout your tenure:

• Tuberculosis (TB) clearance in accordance with California public health guidelines.
• Valid CPR/First Aid certification.
• Valid California driver’s license, reliable transportation, and proof of current automobile insurance if the position requires transporting individuals.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, and assist individuals with mobility as needed.
• Ability to lift up to 25-40 pounds if required.
• Ability to travel within the community.

Benefits

• Pay range: $17.00 - $25.00 per hour, paid weekly. Actual compensation will depend on position, experience, qualifications, and program assignment.
• Flexible scheduling with full-time and part-time positions available.
• Healthcare benefits.
• Paid sick leave.
• Mileage and cell phone reimbursement.
• Opportunities for training and development, with promotion from within.