Direct Support Professional

Down Home Ranch, Inc. Direct Support Professional Elgin, TX·Full time Company website Apply for Direct Support Professional The Direct Support Professional (DSP) is a non-exempt hourly full time – live in – direct support position located in Residential, reporting directly to the Residential Manager. The DSP shares the home and lives of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The DSP supports the mission of Down Home Ranch by providing guidance and instruction in all aspects of the individual’s life, so that they may reach their full potential with a goal of living independently. The DSP will join with other staff in a high-level commitment to provide an excellent quality of life for the individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities served through Ranch programming. Typical work schedule consists of supporting individuals in their homes mornings until 9:00 AM and evenings after 5:00 PM, from 5:00 PM Sunday until 9:00AM Friday ; hours will be adjusted according to the needs of Down Home Ranch. There is an additional five non-scheduled hours per week. Eligible for full time benefits. About Down Home Ranch, Inc. About Down Home Ranch Located on 410 acres of beautiful Texas countryside in Elgin, Down Home Ranch is more than just a workplace—it’s a thriving community. Founded in 1989, we are a working farm and residential ranch dedicated to empowering the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Through our social, educational, residential, and vocational programs, we provide our "Ranchers" with opportunities to live, work, and grow with purpose. Whether it’s through our award‑winning greenhouses, animal husbandry, or our famous summer camps, we are committed to building a world where everyone belongs without exception. What Makes Us Special? Working at the Ranch isn't your typical 9‑to‑5. When you join our team, you aren't just an employee; you are a partner in our mission. *A "Side‑by‑Side" Philosophy: We don’t lead from the front; we lead from beside. Whether we’re planting flowers, or sharing a meal, we work as equals with our Ranchers to foster independence and mutual respect. *The "Ranch Life" Perks: Our staff enjoys a work environment surrounded by nature. From 400+ acres of hiking trails and fishing ponds to an on‑site gym and pool, the "office" view includes mini‑ponies, longhorns, and wide‑open Texas skies. *Purpose‑Driven Growth: We believe in "doing with, not for." You’ll see the direct impact of your work every day as you help individuals gain confidence, learn new trades, and build lifelong friendships. *A Culture of Belonging: We pride ourselves on being a place where you are valued for who you are. Our team is known for its high "happiness and purpose" ratings because we prioritize a supportive, joyful, and inclusive atmosphere. At a Glance Founded: 1989 Location: Elgin, TX (just 45 minutes east of Austin) The Campus: A 410-acre working farm featuring greenhouses, gardens, and diverse residential lodges. Who We Serve: Adults and campers (13+) with IDD, including Down syndrome and autism. Our Core Values: Belong Without Exception Lead Side‑by‑Side Pitch In With Purpose Serve With Heart Description DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL (DSP) Full Time; Non Exempt POSITION SUMMARY The Direct Support Professional (DSP) is a non-exempt hourly full time – live in – direct support position located in Residential, reporting directly to the Residential Manager. The DSP shares the home and lives of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The DSP supports the mission of Down Home Ranch by providing guidance and instruction in all aspects of the individual’s life, so that they may reach their full potential with a goal of living independently. The DSP will join with other staff in a high-level commitment to provide an excellent quality of life for the individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities served through Ranch programming. Typical work schedule consists of supporting individuals in their homes mornings until 9:00 AM and evenings after 5:00 PM, from 5:00 PM Sunday until 9:00AM Friday ; hours will be adjusted according to the needs of Down Home Ranch. There is an additional five non-scheduled hours per week. Eligible for full time benefits. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Implement the goals of Residential Ensures maintenance of household is reported and completed Provides transportation and ensures vehicles are clean and well‑kept Provides coverage in the residential environment as needed and as assigned by the Program Manager Coordinates necessary grocery shopping activities Assists with meal preparation and ensures that meals are prepared Assists with financial planning and management for individuals serviced Completes household routines such as waking up residents, prepping breakfast, ensuring chores are complete, etc. Understands individual service planning and person‑centered planning process Promotes health and wellness of all individuals supported Is aware of the requirement for documentation, and is able to manage these requirements effectively Enhances the ability for individual to lead a self‑determined life by providing the support and information necessary to build self‑esteem, assertiveness and to make decisions Knowledge of formal and informal assessment practices to respond to individual’s needs, desires and interest Attends staff meetings, cross functional committees, workshops and trainings Performs other duties and responsibilities, as assigned Reasonable Accommodations Statement To accomplish this job successfully an individual must be able to perform, with or without reasonable accommodation, each essential function satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to help enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. REQUIREMENTS Minimum age of 21; excellent driving record and able to pass extensive background investigation High School diploma or equivalent Willing to better understand the diverse challenges that are faced by individuals with IDD including: community supports, building relationships, and open communication Creates and plan activities as requested Live in the home with individuals served, housing contingent upon employment Provides excellent customer service History of supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities or other vulnerable populations Completes work with a high degree of autonomy Ability to bring others together and reconcile differences Outstanding interpersonal relationship building Detail-oriented, works well under pressure, takes initiative to solve problems, meets deadlines Reads and complies with all company policies and procedures, such as in the Down Home Ranch Employee Handbook. Able to write and prepare documentation and reports, as requested. Experience and comfortable with business software Maintain confidentiality under requirements of the HIPAA statutes Excellent communication skills, written and verbal, with the ability to clearly communicate to employees at all levels of the organization Team player with ability to coordinate and work closely with others #J-18808-Ljbffr