Direct Support Professional I

About the role

Heartspring is seeking compassionate, dependable Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to provide care, support, and skill development for students with developmental, intellectual, and behavioral disabilities in a residential group home setting. This is a full-time second shift evening position.

Location: Wichita, KS
Hours: Sunday: 7:45AM–10:45PM, Monday–Wednesday: 3:15PM–10:45PM
Schedule: Full-Time 2nd Shift Evenings

Direct Care & Student Support

• Provide a safe, clean, structured, and nurturing residential environment for children and young adults.
• Support students in developing communication, self-help, social, and independent living skills.
• Work one-on-one and in small groups to help students achieve individualized goals.
• Provide encouragement through positive reinforcement and meaningful interactions.

Residential Care & Daily Living

• Assist students with daily routines, personal care, meal preparation, dining, and household activities as needed.
• Prepare and serve meals while following dietary restrictions and individualized programming.
• Maintain student belongings and ensure living areas remain clean, organized, and welcoming.

Behavioral Support

• Implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), Student Support Plans (SSPs), and individualized therapeutic programming.
• Utilize Nonviolent Crisis Intervention (NCI) techniques when necessary to safely respond to behavioral challenges.
• Support students using trauma-informed, person-centered, and positive behavior support practices.

Documentation & Communication

• Complete accurate documentation regarding student progress, behaviors, and daily activities.
• Report health concerns, incidents, and unusual events according to Heartspring policies and regulatory requirements.
• Communicate effectively with families, supervisors, teachers, therapists, nurses, and interdisciplinary team members.

Community & Team Engagement

• Escort students to community outings, healthcare appointments, recreational activities, and special events.
• Assist in emergency procedures when necessary.
• Welcome and mentor new Direct Support Professionals.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support the success of students and the residential program.

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Experience in direct support, caregiving, residential care, youth services, behavioral health, education, healthcare, mental health, social services, or human services is preferred but not required.
• Must successfully complete Heartspring orientation and required training, including Nonviolent Crisis Intervention (NCI).

Pre-Employment Requirements

To ensure the safety of the children and families we serve, all candidates must successfully complete an extensive pre-employment screening process, including fingerprinting, state and federal background checks, a drug screen, physical examination, and reference verification before beginning employment.

Knowledge & Skills

• Compassion, patience, and a desire to help others succeed.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Dependability and professionalism.
• Ability to remain calm during challenging situations.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Basic computer and documentation skills.
• Commitment to providing safe, person-centered care.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation
• Comprehensive benefits package
• Generous paid time off
• Continuing education and professional development opportunities
• Career growth and advancement pathways

Physical Requirements

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, and assisting students with daily activities.
• Ability to lift, transfer, and assist students as needed.
• Ability to safely perform approved crisis intervention techniques.
• Ability to respond quickly during emergencies.
• Occasional exposure to bodily fluids and other situations common in healthcare and residential settings while following established safety procedures.