Direct Support Professional I

About the role

The DSP 1 provides compassionate, person-centered support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This developing-level role works with closer supervision while completing required training and demonstrating safe, reliable, and engaging support.

Responsibilities

• Support each person’s dignity, choice, independence, rights, safety, and meaningful participation in daily life.
• Assist with activities of daily living, personal care, meals, mobility, household routines, and community access as assigned.
• Follow Individual Support Plans (ISPs), behavior support plans, health and safety protocols, and supervisor direction.
• Engage clients actively through conversation, skill-building, recreation, and enjoyable activities that reflect individual interests and goals.
• Complete service notes, data collection, medication-related records when authorized, and other documentation accurately and on time.
• Observe and promptly report changes in health, behavior, safety, or service needs; follow incident-reporting procedures.
• Maintain professional boundaries, confidentiality, respectful communication, and dependable attendance.
• Complete required orientation and training within the first 15 days and maintain all assigned credentials.
• Residential: May not work alone until medication-related clearance and all required residential training are complete; does not serve as shift lead or take the first independent weekend assignment.
• Day Program: May begin sooner under direct supervision when no medication administration is required; follows the Team Lead’s daily assignments and activity schedule.
• Community Coaching: Maintains a valid driver’s license, acceptable driving record, reliable personal vehicle, and current insurance; plans and participates in safe, fun, community-based activities.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• At least 18 years of age and able to pass required background, registry, and pre-employment checks.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation when driving or community access is an assigned duty.
• Ability to complete required CPR/First Aid, medication, behavior-support, and agency training within established timelines.

Skills

• Compassion and patience
• Reliability and willingness to learn
• Clear communication and documentation
• Creativity, positive energy, and active engagement
• Sound judgment and respect for client choice

Schedule

Varied shifts, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and community-based hours as assigned.