(DSP) Direct Support Professional / Counselor

DREAMS OF AMERICA

Irvine, CA • Community Day Program

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Every day, the adults we serve work hard to build independence, form friendships, and live fuller lives. Your role is to be the person who helps make that happen.

If you're patient, dependable, and energized by working directly with people - this is a career worth having. No nights, no weekends, and a team that genuinely values you.

Irvine, CA Mon–Fri, 9AM–3PM 1:4 staff-to-participant ratio

What You'll Actually Do

This is a hands-on, community-based role. Each day looks a little different - and that's part of what makes it rewarding.

• Support small groups of adults with developmental disabilities (1:4 ratio) in a structured day program
• Teach and reinforce communication, social, and daily living skills through real activities - not worksheets
• Lead or assist with fitness, recreation, volunteer outings, and community engagement
• Transport participants using a company vehicle or your own (mileage reimbursed) for community outings
• Document participant progress toward individual goals
• Serve as a consistent, trusted presence in each participant's day

Who Thrives in This Role

You don't need a specific degree - but you do need the right mindset. Our best DSPs tend to be:

• Naturally patient and calm under pressure
• Reliable - the people we serve count on your consistency
• Comfortable with physical activity (lifting, assisting with mobility)
• Interested in growing - we promote from within into Supervisor, Coordinator, and Leadership roles
• Previous experience with developmental disabilities, special education, caregiving, or behavioral health is a plus - but not required

Requirements

• Valid California Driver's License and clean driving record
• Reliable personal transportation
• Ability to pass DOJ/FBI background check
• Ability to lift, push, or pull up to 25–30 lbs
• Must be available Mon–Fri, 9AM–3PM in Irvine, CA
• Willingness to transport up to 4 participants in your own vehicle (with mileage reimbursement)

Benefits & Compensation

• 401(k) with 4% company match
• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
• Secondary insurance available through Elysian
• Paid training and ongoing professional development
• Mileage reimbursement
• Paid time off and referral bonuses
• Company vehicles available for outings - minimal personal vehicle use required on most days
• Monday–Friday only - real work-life balance

Room to Grow

Dreams of America actively promotes from within. DSPs who demonstrate reliability and leadership are regularly considered for Supervisor, Coordinator, and Leadership Route Driver roles. This is a career path, not just a job.

Ready to Apply?

Submit your application through Indeed or contact us directly. We review applications on a rolling basis and aim to respond within 3 business days.

Dreams of America is an equal opportunity employer committed to building an inclusive team that reflects the communities we serve.