Direct Support Professional

Direct Support Professional III (16227) Join the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and be part of a team committed to creating a positive impact in the lives of fellow Texans. Our comprehensive benefits package includes 100% paid employee health insurance for full‑time eligible employees, a defined benefit pension plan, generous time off benefits, numerous opportunities for career advancement and more. Job Summary The Direct Support Professional III (DSP III) works as part of a team that helps people with intellectual and developmental disabilities achieve their goals. The role includes routine and emergency care, treatment, and training for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Responsibilities include personal care, medication assistance, behavior management, documentation, training, and acting as a shift/team lead when necessary. Responsibilities Provide personal care (grooming, bathing, feeding, lifting, positioning) and assist with daily living activities. Administer medication and first aid, CPR, and manage emergency situations. Observe, document, and report individual conditions, behaviors, and incidents. Implement habilitation and rehabilitation, behavior management, crisis intervention, and treatment programs. Encourage participation in activities and apply person‑centered approaches. Maintain a safe, sanitary environment, follow infection control protocols, and report hazards. Assist with transportation and attend scheduled activities or emergency events. Follow Abuse, Neglect, or Exploitation reporting procedures and participate in disaster response. Provide guidance and mentorship to new DSPs, assist with shift leadership duties. Collaborate with care teams and update treatment plans. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs) Knowledge of individual care techniques and developmental programs. Ability to read, write, and speak English. Clear verbal and written communication skills. Good judgment and decision‑making in emergencies. Quick and calm reaction to emergencies. Proper body mechanics and lifting techniques. Proficiency in first aid, CPR, Ukeru, and Safe Use of Restraint (SUR). Ability to train, mentor, and coach others. Effective teamwork skills. Basic mastery of individual care techniques. Flexibility in handling work assignments. Qualifications High School diploma, GED, or 6 months of work experience. Six months or more working with people who have mental health/intellectual developmental disabilities. Experience as a DSP. Experience implementing behavior programs for individuals with intellectual developmental disabilities. Experience writing reports. Additional Requirements Valid Texas driver’s license or ability to obtain within 90 days. Preferred certifications: CPR, First Aid, Ukeru, Safe Use of Restraint (SUR). Must pass fingerprint criminal background check, pre‑employment drug screen, and registry checks (CANRS, Nurse Aide, Medication Aide, HHS list of excluded individuals). Males 18‑25 must register with Selective Service. All applicants must be at least 18 years old. Random drug testing for all State Supported Living Center employees. Flexibility in work hours; may require overtime, extended hours, weekends, and holidays. Additional Information Applicants must be willing to work in multiple homes including morning, evening, and night shifts, and may be eligible to earn additional pay for work performed on evenings, nights, and/or weekends. The position may require driving a state‑owned vehicle and may involve shift or team lead responsibilities when the DSP IV Lead/Charge is not on duty. ADA Accommodations HHSC provides reasonable accommodations during hiring and selection for qualified individuals with a disability. Pre‑Employment Checks and Work Eligibility Applicants selected may need to pass background and other due diligence checks. HHSC uses E‑Verify. Candidates must bring I‑9 documentation on the first day of work. Telework Disclaimer All HHS positions are subject to state and agency telework policies. This position is listed as not eligible for telework. #J-18808-Ljbffr