DSP

About the role

The Direct Support Professional provides direct, interactive, and supportive supervision and instruction to individuals in various environments to assist them in exploring, discovering, and achieving their desired outcomes. Areas of support include life skills, personal development, community access and integration, and independent living.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct, interactive supervision and support to children in desired activities to foster independence and the achievement of their goals.
• Understand and implement the strategies and goals identified in the child’s Care Plan, including community and volunteer activities, home skills, meal preparation, budget and money management, personal care, and social interaction skills.
• Assist and/or prompt children with daily personal care tasks (toileting, bathing, etc.) in a respectful and timely manner.
• Use a personal vehicle to provide transportation for community activities, visits, and appointments.
• Administer medication as prescribed and document according to company procedures.
• Monitor home and community environments for cleanliness and safety hazards; provide training and support for emergencies (e.g., evacuations, seat belt use, smoke alarms).
• Assist with scheduling and attending medical appointments, ensuring proper documentation is obtained and filed.
• Maintain confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA and company guidelines.
• Use verbal, written, and electronic communication to interact professionally with internal and external customers.
• Actively participate in meetings, follow up on assigned tasks, and support a safe and healthy environment.
• Report critical issues or crises to a supervisor immediately.
• Prepare reports (daily documentation, incident reports, timesheets, mileage reimbursement) on time and in adherence to guidelines.
• Network with customers and professionals to develop supportive and collaborative relationships.
• Ensure work time is recorded accurately and submitted within designated timelines.
• Check and respond to electronic communications within 48 hours (or immediately for urgent matters).
• Provide mentoring and support to colleagues as needed.

Requirements

• Must be 21 years of age or older.
• High School Diploma or G.E.D.
• Medication administration training provided before any youth contact.
• At least 6 months of experience working with children/youth and/or in a human services field (beneficial).

Skills

• Ability to follow written, verbal, or scheduled instructions.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks and prioritize effectively.
• Basic computer skills, including the ability to learn and use company software applications.
• Ability to read, comprehend, and apply information from procedures, safety rules, and reports.
• Basic English grammar skills for writing reports and correspondence.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to document data accurately.
• Verbal and written communication skills for interacting with diverse audiences.
• Ability to work as a team member and promote a positive work culture.
• Ability to maintain regular attendance, punctuality, and accurate records.
• Self-motivation, initiative, and ability to organize work activities.
• Ability to handle stress and maintain confidentiality, integrity, and accountability.

Working Conditions

• Flexible schedule, including days, evenings, weekends, and/or overnight shifts.
• Must provide own transportation, have a valid driver’s license, and meet insurability requirements.
• Must maintain auto insurance and provide documentation.
• Ability to lift/move/transfer individuals or materials up to 75 lbs. periodically.
• Ability to stand, walk, stoop, and bend frequently.
• Manual dexterity for tasks such as medication administration, first aid, meal preparation, and household tasks.
• Must maintain CPR, TB, and First Aid certification, and stay current on all required training.
• Successful background check required upon hire and annually thereafter.
• Occasional exposure to moving mechanical parts, toxic/caustic chemicals, and fumes or airborne particles.
• Noise level in the work environment is usually quiet to moderate.