Direct Support Professional

Job Description

Job Description

Be Part of our Circle.

We empower people to live their best life. That is our mission—not only to those we serve, but to those we employ. This mutually shared sense of purpose drives our decisions and actions. Come as you are and achieve better lives as part of the St. Louis Arc family of individuals in this vital role.

Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) work in our 20+ Group Homes in the St. Louis Area. Schedules vary by home. DSPs earn an hourly rate of $22/hour.

Empower people to live their best lives by assisting them with daily living skills.

Teach skills that increase our residential participants’ independence and self-esteem.

• Assist four to six adult participants residing in our residential or group home with such skills as hygiene, meal preparation, dressing, and maintaining a clean environment.
• Provide general safety oversight according to agency policy and Individualized Support Plans
• Support individuals in all areas of social and emotional well-being (e.g., planning outings and internal activities).
• Collaborate with the nursing team to follow and implement nursing plans (e.g., medications, physical support, and diets).
• Maintain an understanding of all individuals’ plans and appropriate implementation practices.
• Transport individuals to and from activities and appointments.
• Complete required documentation within agency and funding deadlines.

We'll celebrate and empower your unique gifts and contributions.

We’ll help you help others. You’ll be embraced and uplifted in our inclusive circle of support.

• You'll have a voice and the autonomy to put into action your ideas for doing your job better—and serve others better.
• Hands-on leadership that empowers team member innovation.
• Opportunities to learn and grow, plus benefits to support your personal and professional well-being—such as health insurance, retirement, and time off.
• STUDENT LOAN REPAYMENT ASSISTANCE
  • Full-Time hourly direct care staff may be eligible for up to $250 per month paid directly to their student loan vendor. Ask your recruiter for details.

The flexible, respectful individual we see is an innovative and quick thinker with these qualifications:

Join others with your impeccable interpersonal skills, good intentions, and compassion to help people.

• At least 1 year of experience in customer service, education, medical or human services—preferably supporting individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities.
• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Reliable vehicle (4 seat belts and working heating/cooling) and valid driver’s license; valid auto insurance required at time of hire.

We look forward to welcoming someone with the following knowledge and skills:

• Solid judgment, organization, and problem-solving skills—to work with varying personalities and support needs
• Ability to communicate effectively and professionally, both verbally and in writing
• Ability to work independently, including making critical decisions in emergencies
• Ability to work with varying personalities and support needs
• Basic computer knowledge and ability to navigate database software.

Since 1950, people with disabilities and their families have been placing their trust with the St. Louis Arc. Today, our 500+ team members serve more than 4,500 children, teens, and adults with autism spectrum disorders, Down syndrome, intellectual and other developmental disabilities.