Awake Overnight Direct Support Professional

Awake Overnight Direct Support Professional (DSP)

As a Direct Support Professional (DSP), you have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities, mental health needs, and physical disabilities. DSPs provide the support, encouragement, and guidance individuals need to live fulfilling lives, build independence, and participate in their communities.

This is more than just a job it is a chance to build relationships, create positive experiences, and know that the work you do matters every single day.

What Does a Direct Support Professional Do?

DSPs support individuals in their homes and communities by helping them reach personal goals, maintain independence, and experience life to the fullest. Responsibilities may include:

• Building meaningful relationships and supporting individuals in developing friendships and community connections.
• Assisting with daily routines such as cooking, household tasks, personal care, hygiene, social activities, and leisure activities.
• Supporting individuals with health and safety needs, money management, and behavior support strategies.
• Administering medications according to training and company procedures.
• Providing transportation to appointments, activities, and community outings.
• Documenting services, activities, and important events using an online documentation system.
• Encouraging independence while providing the level of support each individual needs.

Who Makes a Great DSP?

The best DSPs are compassionate, dependable, and ready to make a difference. A successful candidate:

• Has a genuine passion for helping others.
• Builds trust and meaningful relationships with the individuals they support.
• Takes ownership and approaches challenges with a positive attitude.

Awake Overnight DSP Expectations

The Awake Overnight DSP must remain awake, alert, and actively engaged for the entire shift. Staff are responsible for maintaining continuous supervision and providing support whenever the individual needs assistance.

Candidates should be comfortable working independently, maintaining a high level of awareness during quieter periods, and responding quickly when the individual's needs change.

Why Become a DSP?

Being a DSP is a rewarding career where no two days are exactly the same. You will have the opportunity to:

• Get to know amazing individuals and build lasting relationships.
• Participate in community activities, outings, and new experiences.
• Help individuals learn new skills and achieve personal goals.

Qualifications

Applicants must:

• Be at least 18 years of age.
• Have a high school diploma or GED preferred.
• Have experience working with individuals with disabilities preferred.
• Possess a valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and maintain a clean driving record.
• Have access to an insured vehicle.
• Successfully pass a DHS background study.
• Have basic computer skills for documentation and communication.

Working Environment

DSPs support individuals in their homes and communities by helping them reach personal goals, maintain independence, and experience life to the fullest. DSPs may:

• Travel regularly within the community.
• Support individuals both indoors and outdoors.
• Assist with physical activities such as walking, bending, reaching, lifting, and moving throughout the workday.
• Work in environments where individuals may experience emotional distress, behavioral challenges, or crisis situations.
• Be exposed to bodily fluids, odors, dust, infectious diseases, and other workplace conditions common in human services.

Successful DSPs are comfortable problem-solving, staying calm under pressure, and supporting individuals through both successes and challenges. If you are looking for meaningful work where you can positively impact someone's life, we encourage you to apply.