Direct Support Professional

Job Description

Job Description

In-Home & Community Support

Must be available for weekends

JOB PURPOSE

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) I provides high-quality, person-centered support to individuals with disabilities in both in-home and community-based settings. This position focuses on promoting independence, ensuring health and safety, supporting activities of daily living, and encouraging meaningful community engagement in alignment with each individual’s Individual Support Plan (ISP).

SUPERVISOR

In-Home Support Supervisor or Community Off-Site Supervisor (as assigned)

POSITION TYPE

Hourly – Full-Time (40 hrs. per week)

or Part-Time (30 hrs. or less per week)

MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

DSP I:

• Provide direct care, supervision, and support to individuals in their homes and during community activities.
• Assist individuals with activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, feeding, and mobility, while promoting dignity and independence.
• Provide companionship and engage individuals in meaningful conversations, hobbies, and recreational activities.
• Support individuals during community outings such as shopping, social events, recreational activities, and appointments.
• Encourage and promote independence, choice, and self-advocacy.
• Follow and implement Individual Support Plans (ISPs), behavior support plans, and skill-building strategies.
• Assist with meal preparation, dietary needs, and compliance with nutritional guidelines and dietary restrictions.
• Administer medications as delegated and maintain accurate documentation in accordance with state regulations.
• Monitor individuals’ health and well-being, report concerns to appropriate personnel, and document observations accurately.
• Maintain clean, safe, and organized living environments, including light housekeeping tasks such as laundry and tidying personal spaces.
• Ensure the safety and well-being of individuals at all times, including during transportation and community outings.
• Transport individuals safely and follow all RISE driving and safety policies.
• Use de-escalation techniques when necessary.
• Maintain accurate documentation, reports, and records as required.
• Attend required trainings, staff meetings, and ongoing professional development.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Must successfully pass pre-employment and ongoing background checks.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and obtain a Missouri Class E chauffeur’s license within 14 days of hire.
• Must successfully complete all required employment-related training.
• Basic understanding of caregiving principles.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Basic computer skills for documentation.
• Patience, empathy, and adaptability when working with individuals with disabilities.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and remain physically active throughout the shift.
• Ability to lift, push, pull, or assist with transfers up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to assist individuals with mobility, including transfers from beds, wheelchairs, and other seating.
• Ability to work in varied environments, including residential homes, community locations, and outdoor settings.
• Ability to respond quickly and appropriately in emergency situations.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as needed.

Full-time Benefits

• 100% employer-paid health insurance
• Dental and vision insurance
• Employer-paid life insurance and short-term disability insurance
• Paid holidays, paid vacation, paid sick leave, and paid birthday time off
• Paid training
• Matching retirement
• Tuition reimbursement
• Referral bonuses

Part-time Benefits

• Paid vacation
• Paid training
• Tuition reimbursement
• Referral Bonuses

ABOUT RISE COMMUNITY SERVICES

RISE was founded in 1979 with one simple, but lofty goal: to create perfect lives for individuals with disabilities. Our core values of safety, respect, growth, compassion, and teamwork drive everything we do. We hold ourselves accountable to these values as we strive to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve. At RISE, we are more than just an organization—we are a family. Together, we work tirelessly to uplift and empower our community, one family at a time.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY COMMITMENT

RISE is committed to provide equal employment opportunities for all individuals, and we welcome candidates from all backgrounds. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, pregnancy, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, military or uniformed service, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.