Direct Support Professionals Lead

Job Description Job Description Reports To
House Manager / Quality Assurance Manager (as assigned)
Position Summary
The DSP Lead is the model Direct Support Professional (DSP) and serves as a reliable, competent, and positive
presence across residential services. The DSP Lead is expected to perform all duties a DSP can perform and may
perform any House Manager task when asked—except the DSP Lead is not responsible for supervising DSP staff.
The DSP Lead’s first priority is to ensure coverage for open DSP shifts due to call-offs or no-shows. When coverage
is stable, the DSP Lead supports home operations and quality of care by ensuring PCSP services are implemented
and documentation is completed.
Primary Coverage Responsibility
- Serve as the first responder to DSP staffing gaps by covering open shifts when a DSP does not report to work.
- Coordinate promptly with the House Manager regarding coverage needs and shift changes.
- Maintain readiness to work in any home, at any time, with any client, regardless of complexity.
Core DSP Responsibilities (Model DSP Standard)
- Provide person-centered supports aligned with each individual’s preferences, rights, and goals.
- Implement the person’s PCSP and support plan strategies consistently, documenting services accurately.
- Promote independence, community inclusion, dignity, and informed choice in daily activities.
- Maintain confidentiality, professionalism, and ethical conduct at all times.
House Operations Support (When All DSP Shifts Are Covered)
- Support House Managers by assisting with tasks within the realm of home operations as requested (e.g., supplies,
routines, documentation checks, program support).
- Help ensure PCSP services are being met by verifying follow-through on scheduled supports, activities, and
required documentation.
- Monitor attendance of individuals staying in the home and report concerns or discrepancies to the House Manager.
- Support incident reporting, communication, and follow-through as directed.
Professional Expectations & Culture
- Serve as a visible positive representative of the agency at all times—capable of being the face of the
organization when needed.
- Demonstrate patience, empathy, and leadership through actions and example (without formal supervision
authority).
- “Look for work” by proactively identifying needs and taking initiative, rather than looking for reasons not to do tasks.
- Maintain a consistently positive attitude, flexibility, and willingness to support any home/team as needed.
- Communicate with diplomacy and tact with clients, families, staff, and leadership.
Safety, Compliance & Reporting
- Follow all policies related to abuse, neglect, exploitation, health/safety, and documentation.
- Report concerns immediately and accurately per policy and regulatory expectations.
- Support a safe environment through attentive care, risk awareness, and respectful interventions.