DSP (Direct Support Professional)

Job Description

Job Description

Location- Salem, VA

Schedule: 

• Monday-Friday 2:30p-7:30p
• Saturday and Sunday 3:00p-8:00pm

Pay: $20./hr

Position Summary

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides direct care and support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and/or behavioral health needs. The DSP assists individuals in achieving independence, improving daily living skills, participating in community activities, and maintaining health and safety in their home and community. This position requires compassion, professionalism, and a strong commitment to person-centered support.

Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities

The DSP will provide support in the following areas:

Personal Care and Daily Living Support

• Assist individuals with personal hygiene, bathing, grooming, dressing, and toileting as needed
• Support individuals with mobility, transfers, and safe ambulation
• Provide assistance with meals, feeding, and following dietary guidelines
• Assist with housekeeping tasks such as laundry, cleaning, and organizing living spaces
• Support individuals in completing daily routines and maintaining a structured schedule

Community Support and Engagement

• Assist individuals with participating in community outings and activities
• Provide transportation to appointments, shopping, recreational events, and social activities
• Support skill-building activities such as money management, communication, and social skills
• Promote independence while ensuring safety and supervision

Health and Safety Monitoring

• Monitor for changes in behavior, mood, physical condition, or overall health
• Follow individual safety plans and risk management protocols
• Provide medication reminders or medication administration (if trained and authorized)
• Respond appropriately to emergencies and follow agency procedures
• Maintain a safe environment and report hazards immediately

Documentation and Communication

• Complete daily progress notes, shift summaries, and required documentation accurately and on time
• Report incidents, injuries, or unusual events to supervisors promptly
• Communicate professionally with families, guardians, supervisors, and healthcare providers
• Maintain confidentiality and follow HIPAA guidelines

Behavioral Support

• Implement behavior support plans as trained
• Use positive reinforcement strategies to encourage appropriate behavior
• Assist with de-escalation techniques and ensure safety during challenging behaviors
• Provide supervision to prevent elopement, self-harm, or unsafe actions

Minimum Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years of age
• High School Diploma or GED required
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation
• Ability to pass a  background check , driving record check, and drug screening
• Ability to lift, transfer, or assist individuals up to 50 lbs (with or without accommodations)
• Must have strong communication and teamwork skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience working with individuals with IDD, autism, mental health needs, or elderly populations
• CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)
• Medication Aide certification (preferred if applicable)
• Experience with behavior plans and person-centered services

Required Skills and Competencies

• Compassion, patience, and dependability
• Strong ability to follow care plans and agency policies
• Ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Professionalism and respect for individuals’ dignity and rights

Contact: 

• Susie Houghton- Program Manager
  
• Email: View email address on ziprecruiter.com
• Cell: View phone number on ziprecruiter.com