Direct Support Professional / FT/Th and Fri 11p-9a, Sat 9p-9a

About the role

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides personalized support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, mental health challenges, and substance use issues. The DSP helps individuals engage meaningfully in their communities, achieve personal goals, and foster independence and self‑advocacy while operating under supervision and established guidelines.

Schedule

Full‑time: Thursday and Friday 11 p.m. – 9 a.m., Saturday 9 p.m. – 9 a.m.

Responsibilities

• Advocate for individuals’ human, legal, and civil rights.
• Promote health and safety by supporting wellness initiatives and accident prevention.
• Encourage self‑advocacy and empower individuals in making their own choices.
• Facilitate community engagement by accompanying individuals to work, recreational activities, and social events.
• Teach and support independent living skills, including household management and personal care.
• Provide transportation for appointments, errands, and community activities.
• Foster social connections by supporting relationship‑building within the community.
• Support informed decision‑making regarding living arrangements, employment, and social activities.
• Assist with personal care tasks such as hygiene, bathing, dressing, and household chores (laundry, cleaning, decorating).
• Maintain accurate documentation of provided services and support.
• Understand and address challenges faced by individuals with disabilities, using effective advocacy strategies.
• Connect individuals with community resources for career development, education, and volunteer opportunities.
• Encourage effective communication, adapting to individual needs and preferences.
• Assist with medication administration in accordance with state laws and regulations.
• Ensure confidentiality and uphold ethical standards in all aspects of care.

Minimum qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• At least 18 years of age.
• Successful completion of all pre‑employment screenings.
• Compassionate, patient, and dedicated to person‑centered support.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to foster independence while providing necessary support.
• Knowledge of disability rights, self‑advocacy, and community integration principles.
• Ability to maintain accurate records and follow regulatory guidelines.

Physical demands and work environment

• Regularly lift and carry up to 20 lb.; occasionally pull at least 40 lb.
• Squat, kneel, crawl, crouch, climb, and stoop as part of regular duties.
• Use hands and fingers to handle or operate objects, tools, or controls.
• Stand and walk for extended periods.
• Demonstrate proficiency in CPR from floor level, requiring work on hands and knees, bending, standing, and lifting.
• Vision requirements include close, distance, and peripheral vision.
• Ability to talk and hear (except for Deaf and Hard of Hearing programs, which require fluency in American Sign Language).

Benefits

• Payactiv – early access to earned wages before payday.
• Employee perks and discount program.
• Paid Time Off (full‑time employees only).
• Health/Insurance coverage (full‑time employees only).
• 401(k) retirement savings program.
• Wellbeing programs: physical, emotional, and financial support.
• Chronic disease management programs for hypertension and diabetes (for qualifying employees).
• Free CPR, first aid, and job‑specific training opportunities.

About RHA Health Services

RHA Health Services helps individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, mental health, and substance use needs live their best lives. With a mission to provide a safe, healthy environment and create opportunities for personal outcomes, RHA has served its community for over 30 years across North Carolina, Georgia, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and New Jersey.