Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Job Description

Job Description

Department: Residential Services

Reports To: Manager/CEO - Maurice Hawkins

FLSA Status: Exempt

Job Summary: The Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides direct care, supervision, and skill-building support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) living in a group home setting under the Virginia Medicaid Waiver. The DSP helps individuals achieve personal goals, maintain health and safety, and live as independently as possible in accordance with person-centered plans and DBHDS standards.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide individualized support and supervision in accordance with each individual’s Individual Service Plan (ISP).
• Assist with activities of daily living (ADLs), including bathing, dressing, toileting, eating, and mobility.
• Implement and document ISP goals, progress notes, behavioral data, and daily logs in a timely and accurate manner.
• Support individuals in meal preparation, household cleaning, laundry, and other homemaking tasks.
• Administer medications as trained and approved, and complete Medication Administration Records (MARs) per policy.
• Support individuals in attending medical appointments, community outings, employment, and recreational activities.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and supportive environment in compliance with DBHDS licensing regulations and health/safety standards.
• Promote skill development and independence in areas such as self-care, money management, social interaction, and communication.
• Manage challenging behaviors using positive behavior supports and agency-approved interventions (e.g., TOVA techniques).
• Report incidents, injuries, illnesses, or unusual occurrences immediately to the supervisor (Maurice Hawkins).
• Advocate for individuals' rights, preferences, and needs while promoting dignity and respect at all times.
• Follow emergency procedures and remain calm and responsive during crisis situations.
• Attend mandatory training and maintain certification in CPR/First Aid, Medication Administration, and behavior intervention strategies.
• Communicate effectively with team members, families, medical professionals, and external agencies.
• Answer to monthly safety checks.

Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• At least 18 years of age.
• Valid Virginia driver’s license with acceptable driving record (if transporting individuals).
• Ability to pass a Criminal Background Check, Drug Screening, and DSS Central Registry Check.
• Must be able to complete and maintain certifications as required by Virginia Medicaid Waiver and DBHDS:
  • CPR/First Aid
  • Medication Administration 
  • TOVA or other approved behavioral intervention training
  • Person-Centered Thinking
  • Human Rights / HIPAA

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and perform physical interventions if needed.
• Must be able to stand, walk, bend, push, pull, and kneel during shift.
• Ability to stay alert and awake during overnight or extended shifts.

Skills & Competencies:

• Compassionate, patient, and respectful demeanor.
• Ability to follow instructions and work independently or as part of a team.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Time management and problem-solving skills.
• Understanding of confidentiality, boundaries, and professional ethics.