Direct Support Professional - DSP

Job Description

Job Description

Description:

Direct Support Professional

Introduction

Join our dedicated team as a Direct Support Professional - DSP, where you will play a vital role in empowering individuals with developmental disabilities to lead fulfilling and independent lives. Your compassionate support and commitment will help create a positive and inclusive environment that fosters growth, dignity, and respect. Be part of a rewarding journey that makes a meaningful difference every day.

ABOUT SKILLS, INC

A Maine nonprofit, we were founded by families. In the 1950’s, different families built nonprofits to support their children with intellectual disabilities. SKILLS was born from those early organizations. We started serving only adults with intellectual disabilities. Over the last 60 years, we have added services and expanded programs. Our mission is to provide a supportive environment for employees and people receiving support. We see the individual – not a person defined by their disability, but by their dreams, aspirations, and capabilities. We see the AMAZING in everyone!

Direct Support Professional - DSP Job Responsibilities

 

- Provide compassionate care and support to individuals with disabilities in their daily activities.

- Assist people with personal hygiene tasks, including bathing, dressing, and grooming.

- Implement individualized care plans and document their progress and incidents accurately.

- Facilitate social and recreational activities to promote engagement and community involvement.

- Administer medications according to prescribed schedules and maintain accurate medication records.

- Support people with mobility and transportation, including wheelchair transfers and driving to appointments.

- Communicate effectively with people receiving support, their families, and other healthcare professionals.

- Monitor individual’s health and report any changes or concerns to the appropriate personnel.

- Encourage and assist people in developing life skills for greater independence.

- Maintain a safe and clean environment in accordance with health and safety standards.

- Provide emotional support and companionship to enhance individual's quality of life.

- Participate in team meetings and training sessions to stay informed on best practices and client needs.

FULL, PART-TIME, or PER DIEM WORK SCHEDULES as Direct Support Professionals - DSP

This entry-level position has various day shift, evening shift, night shift, holiday, and weekend schedules available based on the needs of the persons served and your availability. Overnight shifts from the hours of 10:00 pm - 6:00 am pay $2.50/hour more. 

Don't forget BENEFITS!

We provide terrific benefits for our employees working 30+ hours/week, including 100% employer-paid health and life insurance, voluntary vision and dental insurances, and paid time off (PTO) as well as a 403(b) with 100% employer match. Additionally, we offer paid training and have a fleet of company vehicles for use when transporting individuals If this sounds like the right opportunity for you, apply today!

Equal Opportunity Employer

 

SKILLS, Inc., is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination against otherwise qualified applicants on the basis of the individual's status in a protected class. Protected classes include race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, genetic information, legally recognized disability, military services or veteran status, creed, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy, marital or civil union status, citizenship, ancestry, ethnic heritage, or any other status protected under local, state, or federal laws.

Requirements:

 

- High school diploma or equivalent

-Minimum 18 years of age

- Valid driver's license with a clean driving record

- Ability to pass a background check

- CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain upon hire)

- Strong verbal and written communication skills

- Ability to lift at least 50 pounds

- Experience working with individuals with disabilities preferred

- Empathy, patience, and strong interpersonal skills

- Flexibility to work various shifts, including nights and weekends

- Ability to follow individualized support plans and protocols

- Basic computer skills for documentation and communication tasks

Preferred:

1. Experience in health, education, human services, occupational therapy, rehabilitation services, deaf services, or low-vision services
2. Professional or personal experience with individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities and/or Autism

Wages, Benefits, and Schedule

1. Wages are paid once every two weeks.
2. Direct Support Professional - DSP positions are considered non exempt from FLSA overtime regulations.
3. A complete description of benefits—including health, vacation, and sick leave—is contained in the SKILLS, Inc. Employee Handbook.