DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Job Title

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Position Summary

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) is a valued member of the clinical and residential support team responsible for providing compassionate, person-centered care to individuals with intellectual, developmental, behavioral health, and other support needs. The DSP promotes independence, dignity, wellness, and community inclusion while ensuring the health and safety of individuals served.

Working collaboratively with an interdisciplinary team, the DSP assists individuals in achieving their personal goals, developing life skills, and maximizing their quality of life. The DSP supports the organization's mission by fostering a culture of compassion, hope, respect, service, and collaboration.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Direct Care & Individual Support

• Provide assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), including personal hygiene, grooming, dressing, meal preparation, housekeeping, and laundry.
• Support individuals in developing and maintaining independent living skills.
• Encourage self-advocacy, personal growth, and achievement of individual goals.
• Promote a safe, respectful, and supportive environment for all individuals served.
• Assist individuals in building meaningful relationships and participating in community activities.
• Monitor health, wellness, and overall safety of individuals served.
• Provide supervision and guidance according to individual support plans (ISPs) and behavior support plans (BSPs).

Medication Administration & Health Support

• Administer medications and maintain accurate medication records in accordance with agency policies and state regulations.
• Monitor for changes in health status and report concerns promptly.
• Respond appropriately to medical emergencies and crisis situations.
• Maintain current certification and training requirements, including CPR and First Aid.

Community Integration & Transportation

• Transport individuals to medical appointments, educational programs, employment opportunities, recreational activities, religious services, family visits, and community events.
• Support participation in community activities that promote inclusion and independence.
• Operate agency vehicles safely and in compliance with all transportation policies.

Documentation & Compliance

• Complete accurate and timely documentation, including:
  • Daily progress notes
  • Medication administration records (MARs)
  • Goal tracking and ISP documentation
  • Incident reports
  • Behavioral documentation
  • Safety and emergency logs
  • Consumer funds documentation
  • Vehicle and transportation records
• Maintain confidentiality and comply with HIPAA regulations.
• Report suspected abuse, neglect, exploitation, or mistreatment according to agency policies and applicable regulations.

Team Collaboration

• Work collaboratively with Residential Managers, Lead DSPs, clinicians, families, and other service providers.
• Participate in ISP development, implementation, and outcome tracking.
• Attend required trainings, staff meetings, and professional development activities.
• Assist with residential licensing requirements and regulatory compliance activities.
• Support special projects and perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Required Education and Experience

• High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent required.
• Minimum of six (6) months to one (1) year of experience working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, behavioral health needs, or in a related human services field.
• Valid driver's license with a clean driving record.
• Ability to pass required background checks and drug screening.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Human Services, Psychology, Social Work, Special Education, or a related field.
• Previous experience in residential, community-based, or direct support services.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Ability to build positive relationships with individuals served, families, and team members.
• Knowledge of person-centered practices and trauma-informed care.
• Strong organizational, problem-solving, and time-management skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office, email, and electronic documentation systems.
• Ability to remain calm and professional during crisis situations.
• Strong attention to detail and documentation accuracy.
• Demonstrated commitment to maintaining confidentiality and ethical standards.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, stoop, reach, lift, and climb stairs as needed.
• Ability to safely assist and supervise individuals receiving services.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to drive and transport individuals safely.
• Ability to respond quickly and effectively in emergency situations.

Work Environment

• Residential homes, community settings, and administrative office environments.
• May require evening, overnight, holiday, and weekend shifts.
• Schedule may vary based on individual and program needs.
• On-call responsibilities may be required.

Compliance Requirements

Employees are expected to:

• Follow all agency policies, procedures, and ethical standards.
• Maintain compliance with OSHA, HIPAA, fire safety, and workplace safety requirements.
• Complete all required documentation, trainings, and certifications by established deadlines.
• Accurately record time worked through the agency's timekeeping system.
• Maintain a professional demeanor and exercise sound judgment at all times.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The organization is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other legally protected status.

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by individuals assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications. Additional duties may be assigned as needed to support organizational operations and the individuals served.