LEAD DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL

Position Summary

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) Lead provides direct care, supervision, skill development, and person-centered support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in residential programs. This role promotes independence, community inclusion, personal growth, and quality of life while ensuring services are delivered with dignity, respect, and compassion. In addition to direct support responsibilities, the DSP Lead serves as a mentor and resource for Direct Support Professionals, providing coaching, training, and guidance to support quality service delivery, regulatory compliance, and adherence to organizational policies.

Essential Functions

• Affiliate: Advancing Opportunities
• Location: New Jersey
• FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
• EEO Classification: Service Worker
• Reports To: Residential Manager
• Responsible for direct care, supervision, skill development, and person-centered support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in residential programs.
• Promote independence and self-determination by encouraging participation in daily routines, decision-making, and goal achievement.
• Serve as a lead staff member and positive role model for residential team members.
• Assist with onboarding, orientation, mentoring, and training of Direct Support Professionals.
• Provide coaching and feedback related to service delivery, documentation, consumer care, and compliance requirements.
• Support shift operations and communicate program needs, concerns, and updates to the Residential Manager.
• Assist in maintaining staffing continuity and supporting team effectiveness.
• Promote a culture of accountability, professionalism, and person-centered care.
• Support the delivery of services in accordance with individual service plans and organizational standards.
• Affiliate: Advancing Opportunities
• Location: New Jersey
• FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
• EEO Classification: Service Worker
• Reports To: Residential Manager
• Support coordination of medical appointments, behavioral health services, and community-based supports as needed.
• Maintain medication administration practices to ensure compliance with agency procedures and state regulations.
• Ensure individuals have access to appropriate clothing, personal care supplies, recreational opportunities, and community activities.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and home-like environment that promotes choice, dignity, and inclusion.
• Follow all agency policies, licensing standards, and applicable federal, state, and local regulations.
• Conduct and document required safety inspections, emergency drills, and environmental reviews.
• Report incidents, injuries, safety concerns, maintenance needs, vehicle issues, and compliance risks promptly.
• Safely transport individuals to appointments, activities, and community events as assigned.
• Support audits, inspections, investigations, and quality assurance activities.
• Maintain confidentiality and comply with HIPAA and other privacy requirements.

Qualifications

• Education: High School Diploma or GED required.
• Experience: Minimum one (1) year of experience supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, behavioral health needs, or mental health conditions required. Leadership, supervisory, mentoring, or training experience preferred.
• Licenses and Certifications: Must be at least 21 years of age. Valid, unrestricted driver's license with an acceptable driving record required. Ability to obtain and maintain CPR, First Aid, and any other required certifications.
• Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Strong verbal and written communication skills. Knowledge of person-centered supports and trauma-informed care practices. Ability to effectively support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Strong organizational, time management, and documentation skills. Ability to mentor, coach, and support staff performance. Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office, email, and electronic documentation systems. Ability to exercise sound judgment, maintain professional boundaries, and handle confidential information. Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment. Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and overnight shifts as needed.
• Physical Requirements: Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, reach, and sit for extended periods. Ability to assist individuals with mobility, transfers, and daily living activities as required. Ability to lift, carry, push, and/or pull up to 50 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation. Ability to safely operate agency vehicles and assist with transportation needs. Ability to respond quickly and appropriately in emergency situations.