DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL

Job Description

Job Description

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Position Number: IDD-0801-9
Department: Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD)
Service Line: IDD Residential Services
Affiliate: Resources for Human Development (RHD)
Location: Pennsylvania
Reports To: Residential Manager
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
EEO Classification: 9

Make a Difference Every Day

At RHD, we believe every person deserves the opportunity to live a meaningful, fulfilling, and independent life.

We are seeking compassionate, dependable, and motivated Direct Support Professionals to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in community-based residential homes. Whether you're beginning a career in human services or bringing prior experience, this role offers the opportunity to make a lasting impact while building a rewarding career.

No experience is required for many positions. Paid training is provided.

Position Summary

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) is responsible for the safety, supervision, and support of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities living in community-based residential settings.

DSPs assist individuals with daily living activities, community participation, skill development, and personal goals identified in their Individual Support Plans (ISPs). This role requires a person-centered, trauma-informed approach that promotes dignity, independence, choice, and inclusion.

The DSP works closely with supervisors, clinical staff, families, and community partners to ensure individuals receive the support necessary to thrive in their home and community environments.

Why Join Our Team?Competitive Benefits

• Competitive Compensation
• DailyPay Available
• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Paid Time Off
• Employee Assistance Program
• Employee Referral Bonuses
• Company-Paid Training

Career Growth & Development

• Paid Training Programs
• Medication Administration Certification
• CPR and First Aid Certification
• Professional Development Opportunities
• Leadership Development Programs
• Career Advancement Opportunities

Meaningful Work

• Help individuals achieve greater independence
• Build meaningful relationships
• Promote dignity, respect, and inclusion
• Make a difference every day
• Join a mission-driven organization

Essential ResponsibilitiesDirect Support & Daily Living Assistance

• Assist individuals with activities of daily living, including personal hygiene, grooming, dressing, meal preparation, and household tasks.
• Promote independence and skill development while providing support as needed.
• Encourage participation in home, recreational, vocational, and community activities.
• Foster a safe, supportive, and respectful environment.

Community Engagement & Transportation

• Support individuals in participating fully in their communities.
• Transport individuals to appointments, day programs, recreational activities, family visits, and community events.
• Assist individuals in developing social relationships and community connections.

Individual Support Planning

• Support individuals in achieving goals outlined in their Individual Support Plans (ISPs).
• Participate in ISP development and implementation.
• Follow behavior support plans and supervision requirements.
• Document progress toward goals and outcomes.

Medication Administration & Health Monitoring

• Administer medications according to agency policies and state regulations.
• Monitor individual health and wellness.
• Report concerns, incidents, and changes in condition promptly.

Documentation & Compliance

• Complete required documentation accurately and timely, including:
  • Daily logs
  • Medication Administration Records (MARs)
  • Goal tracking documentation
  • Incident reports
  • Behavioral documentation
  • Vehicle logs
  • Consumer fund documentation
  • Other required records
• Maintain confidentiality and comply with HIPAA requirements.

Crisis Intervention & Safety

• Respond appropriately to crisis situations.
• Follow incident management and reporting procedures.
• Report suspected abuse, neglect, exploitation, or mistreatment immediately.
• Assist in maintaining the health, safety, and well-being of all individuals served.

Team Collaboration

• Attend staff meetings, trainings, and required agency events.
• Participate in ongoing professional development.
• Support on-call and emergency coverage as needed.
• Work collaboratively with supervisors, co-workers, families, and service providers.

QualificationsRequired

• High School Diploma or GED
• Valid Driver's License
• Basic computer and internet proficiency
• Ability to read, write, and document effectively in English
• Ability to complete and maintain required certifications and trainings

Preferred

• Associate's or Bachelor's Degree
• Prior experience in human services, healthcare, behavioral health, or developmental disabilities services
• Experience supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Successful candidates will demonstrate:

• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Strong organizational and time-management skills
• Good judgment and problem-solving abilities
• Understanding of trauma-informed care principles
• Ability to support individuals with diverse needs and abilities
• Strong documentation and recordkeeping skills
• Flexibility and adaptability in a residential setting

Working Conditions

• Community residential homes
• Community-based activities and transportation
• Day, evening, overnight, weekend, and holiday schedules may be required
• Schedule flexibility is necessary based on business and program needs

Physical Requirements

The employee must be able to:

• Sit, stand, walk, bend, stoop, reach, and climb stairs
• Assist individuals with mobility and daily living activities
• Lift, move, or transfer items and equipment weighing 50 pounds or more
• Operate agency and personal vehicles safely
• Respond quickly during emergencies and crisis situations
• Work in residential and community environments

Additional Requirements

• Completion of all required agency trainings
• Successful completion of CPR, First Aid, Medication Administration, and other required certifications
• Adherence to HIPAA, OSHA, Fire Safety, and agency policies and procedures
• Commitment to person-centered and trauma-informed care

About RHD

Resources for Human Development (RHD) is part of the Inperium family of companies. Employment for this position is administered through Apis Services, Inc.

RHD is committed to helping individuals live meaningful, self-directed lives through innovative, person-centered services that promote independence, dignity, and community inclusion.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Apis Services, Inc., Inperium, Inc., and affiliated organizations provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, or any other protected status under applicable law.

Join our team and become the reason someone has a better day.