Direct Support Professional - DSP

Direct Support Professional - DSP

OLD NORTH ROAD GROUP HOME - BARKHAMSTED, CT 06063

Overview

Salary Range $19.20 Hourly Level Entry Position Type Full-Time/Part-Time/Per Diem Job Shift All Shifts 1st,2nd,3rd Travel Percentage Negligible

Direct Support Professionals

Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) – Join Us in Making Every Day Meaningful!

Pay: $19.20/hour Benefits: Outstanding health insurance (NO deductible on most services!), 3 weeks' vacation in your first year, and more! Organization: The Arc of Litchfield County, Inc. (LARC)

Make a Difference That Matters

Are you someone who naturally lifts others up? Do you believe everyone deserves the chance to thrive and live a full, meaningful life? At LARC, our mission is simple but powerful: to help people with intellectual and developmental disabilities reach their potential — and to do it with kindness, creativity, and joy.

Whether you're just starting out in the human services field or already have experience supporting others, becoming a Direct Support Professional (DSP) can be the first step (or the next step) in a deeply rewarding career.

What You'll Do

As a DSP, you'll play an active, hands-on role in helping people with intellectual and developmental disabilities lead engaged, independent, and joyful lives. Your days will be filled with purpose — and fun!

You will:

• Support individuals in their homes, community, or day programs.
• Help with personal care, meal preparation, and daily living activities.
• Encourage skill development and independence.
• Create and participate in fun, meaningful activities — from cooking and crafts to community outings.
• Offer compassion, laughter, and positivity that truly makes a difference.

Get paid to have fun, connect, and empower others — all while gaining professional skills that can launch your career in human services, education, healthcare, or behavioral support.

Why You'll Love Working at LARC

• Unparalleled Health Insurance: No deductible on most services, and employees pay as little as $15.19 per week!
• Generous Paid Time Off: Enjoy 3 weeks of vacation your first year.
• Flexible Scheduling: Full-time and part-time shifts available across multiple programs.
• Growth & Training: Paid training and professional development opportunities to help you advance.
• Inclusive Culture: Work with a compassionate team that values respect, dignity, and diversity.
• Ready to Start Your Journey?

At LARC, we believe in creating belonging — for the individuals we support and for every team member who joins us. If you bring your heart, your humor, and your dedication, we'll provide the training and support to help you succeed.

Apply today and begin a career that changes lives — including your own.

LARC is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and a drug-free workplace. Testing for illegal substances is a pre-employment requirement.

Keywords: CNA, PCA, personal care attendant, group home, direct care, direct support, direct support professional, DSP, nonprofit, human services, social services, disability, developmental, intellectual, DDS, compassion, community living, autism, behavioral health, healthcare, caregiving.

Qualifications & Training

What You'll Bring

• A positive attitude, compassion, and a genuine desire to help others.
• A high school diploma or GED.
• At least 21 years of age with a valid driver's license and clean driving record.
• Willingness to complete background checks and physical.
• Basic computer skills and a commitment to teamwork.

Physical Requirements & Work Environment

Being a Direct Support Professional (DSP) is an active, hands-on role that requires both physical and emotional energy. Each day can look a little different, but every task contributes to creating a safe, inclusive, and empowering environment for the people you support.

To be successful in this position, you'll need to:

• Stay active and engaged: DSPs spend much of their day on their feet — walking, standing, and moving throughout residential homes, program sites, or the community. You may assist with household chores, accompany individuals on walks or recreational activities, and provide transportation to appointments or outings.
• Safely assist individuals: You may need to lift or transfer individuals, push wheelchairs, or assist with mobility equipment. This role requires the ability to lift up to 50 pounds (or ¼ of your body weight) and to support another person safely during transfers or emergencies.
• Move with flexibility: You'll frequently bend, squat, kneel, climb stairs, and reach to provide care, assist with dressing, prepare meals, or participate in activities.
• Respond quickly and calmly: Occasionally, you may need to move quickly — whether redirecting a situation, helping someone who's unsteady, or intervening in an emergency.
• Communicate and document effectively: Clear speech, hearing, reading, writing, and basic computer skills are essential to communicate with individuals, colleagues, and supervisors, and to accurately complete documentation and reports.
• Maintain stamina and focus: DSPs must have sufficient endurance to perform their duties for extended periods — staying alert, supportive, and responsive throughout the shift.
• Drive safely: Many DSPs transport individuals using agency or personal vehicles, requiring a valid driver's license, safe driving history, and comfort navigating local routes.
• Work in varied environments: You'll work indoors and outdoors, in residential and community settings. Conditions may include household environments, exposure to cleaning products, or occasional outdoor activities in variable weather.

Reasonable accommodations will be made for qualified candidates with disabilities.

LARC provides comprehensive training on all safety and lifting procedures to help protect both you and the individuals you serve.

Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this job.