Direct Support Professional

Job Description

Job Description

DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL

Community Day Program | Non-Exempt | Reports To: Program Director

POSITION SUMMARY

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) plays a vital, multi-faceted role dedicated to fostering independence and enhancing quality of life for all Post-22 participants. Through hands-on guidance, DSPs help participants build essential life skills, break down complex tasks, and navigate day-to-day activities with confidence and dignity. Acting as a dedicated advocate, the DSP ensures that each participant's rights, choices, and preferences are consistently honored.

Beyond promoting autonomy, DSPs provide essential support with daily living activities while serving as community liaisons — helping individuals confidently engage with the world around them and fostering meaningful social inclusion.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

PARTICIPANT SUPPORT & ADVOCACY

▸ Provide compassionate, hands-on support with daily living activities including meal planning, preparation, grocery shopping, light housekeeping, and self-care routines — with a focus on teaching skills that promote independence and well-being.

▸ Support participants in reaching their fullest potential by facilitating skill-building activities and breaking complex tasks into achievable steps.

▸ Serve as an active advocate to ensure that each participant's rights, preferences, and dignity are consistently respected across all settings.

▸ Engage participants in meaningful community experiences, vocational activities, and social events that reinforce inclusion and personal growth.

TRANSPORTATION

▸ Operate Post-22 passenger vans safely and reliably along designated routes during morning and afternoon peak hours, providing direct home transportation as well as for social, recreational, and vocational activities.

▸ Assist participants during boarding and disembarking; provide attentive support throughout all transport activities.

▸ When applicable, use personal or company vehicles to provide transportation for participants based on program needs.

DOCUMENTATION & COMPLIANCE

▸ Complete all required documentation accurately and on time in accordance with Post-22 program guidelines and Massachusetts DDS regulations.

▸ Assist community facilitators in collecting, documenting, and monitoring participant progress data.

▸ Maintain confidentiality of all participant records and comply with HIPAA and DDS privacy requirements.

TEAM & PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT

▸ Maintain open, proactive communication with team members, supervisors, guardians, and community partners to ensure coordinated, person-centered care.

▸ Foster a constructive, respectful, and inclusive workplace culture that supports team morale and productivity.

▸ Model professionalism at all times — conducting conversations and interactions in a manner consistent with Post-22's values and the goals of the individuals we serve.

▸ Complete all required training sessions and certifications as assigned by management, and actively pursue ongoing professional development.

▸ Assist community facilitators during vocational site visits and other community-based program activities.

▸ Perform all other duties as assigned by supervisors or team leaders in support of efficient program operations.

QUALIFICATIONS

REQUIRED

PREFERRED

▸ High school diploma, GED, or equivalent

▸ Associate’s degree in Human Services, Psychology, or related field

▸ 18 years of age or older

▸ 1+ year of experience supporting individuals with disabilities

▸ Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record

▸ Familiarity with DDS regulations and Medicaid waiver programs

▸ Demonstrated computer literacy for electronic documentation

▸ CPR/First Aid certification (training provided if not held)

▸ Strong verbal and written communication skills

▸ Experience with behavior support plans or positive behavior strategies

▸ Organizational skills and attention to detail

▸ Bilingual or multilingual capabilities

▸ Ability to pass and maintain all required training

▸ Satisfactory background check results

WORKING CONDITIONS

Physical Requirements

▸ Ability to perform physical tasks including bending, stooping, lifting (up to 50 lbs.), pushing, pulling, reaching, and prolonged walking or standing.

▸ Must be able to perform all physical management techniques required for the position, including any applicable safety intervention protocols.

Accommodations

Post-22 is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities to enable them to perform the essential functions of this position.

PRE-EMPLOYMENT SCREENING

All recommended candidates must successfully complete the following pre-employment screening requirements:

✓ Disabled Persons Protection Commission (DPPC) Abuse Registry Search

✓ Criminal Background Check (CORI) per the Executive Office of Health and Human Services

✓ National Background Check (fingerprint-based)

✓ Valid driver’s license verification and motor vehicle record (MVR) check

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Post-22 is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, age, or any other protected characteristic.