(DSP) DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL

Job Description

Job Description

POSITION SUMMARY

A Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides person-centered support to individuals with physical and/or intellectual disabilities in accordance with DBHDD Waiver Standards , DCH Medicaid rules , and agency policies . DSPs promote independence, dignity, safety, and community inclusion in the least restrictive environment while acting as advocates for each individual’s needs, preferences, choices, and personal goals.

DSPs support individuals in daily living skills, self-care, socialization, adaptive skill development, personal empowerment, and meaningful community participation.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Ability to perform First Aid/CPR
• Ability to observe, assess, and identify individual needs
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and adhere to HIPAA
• Ability to speak, read, write, and understand English clearly
• Ability to document in a clear, concise, and organized manner
• Ability to organize, prioritize, and multi-task assignments
• Ability to learn and implement behavioral support strategies
• Ability to facilitate groups and individual skill instruction
• Ability to relate respectfully to individuals with disabilities
• Ability to promote self-determination and person-centered values
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and listening skills
• Knowledge of appropriate social, work, and professional behavior
• Ability to maintain professional boundaries and a supportive approach

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

(Aligned with DBHDD & DCH service standards)

PERSONAL CARE & SUPERVISION

• Provide personal care, protective oversight, and supervision
• Ensure individuals’ safety, health, welfare, and dignity at all times
• Assist with ADLs (bathing, grooming, toileting, hygiene, dressing, feeding, mobility, etc.)
• Assist with medication self-administration per DBHDD & DCH guidelines (NOT proxy caregiver unless certified)
• Support individuals during community outings, appointments, and activities
• Provide coverage in emergencies
• Basic house cleaning

PROGRAM SUPPORT & SERVICE DELIVERY

• Provide services, supports, and supervision as outlined in the Individual Support Plan (ISP)
• Participate in ISP development and implementation
• Implement person-centered strategies supporting independence
• Implement Behavior Support Plans (BSP) to address maladaptive behaviors and build adaptive skills
• Assist with skill development in:
  • Self-help
  • Socialization
  • Communication
  • Community integration
  • Personal hygiene
  • Meal preparation
  • Housekeeping, laundry, organizing
  • Shopping and budgeting
  • Money management
  • Phone usage
  • Transportation training

DOCUMENTATION & REPORTING

• Complete daily, weekly, and monthly documentation accurately and on time
• Maintain professional records, case notes, data sheets, logs, and administrative forms
• Report changes in the individual’s condition immediately
• Document incidents per DBHDD Incident Management guidelines
• Maintain confidentiality and secure handling of protected information

INDIVIDUAL RIGHTS & ADVOCACY

• Advocate for individuals’ choices, rights, dignity, and goals
• Support self-advocacy and encourage independence
• Protect individuals from abuse, neglect, exploitation, or rights violations
• Promote community inclusion and natural supports

ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY & SUPPORT

• Ensure the home or facility is clean, safe, comfortable, and hazard-free
• Support daily living routines in a structured, respectful manner
• Transport individuals using personal or company vehicle as required
• Utilize community resources that enhance community integration

COLLABORATION & TEAMWORK

• Collaborate with families, case managers, clinicians, and other service providers
• Participate in team meetings, trainings, and agency development
• Maintain professional interactions with coworkers and supervisors

**COMPETENCIES

(Education, Credentials, and Experience)**

• High School Diploma or GED required
• Valid Driver’s License with acceptable driving record
• Proof of current automobile insurance (if transporting individuals)
• Ability to perform the skills and duties of the position
• Experience supporting individuals with disabilities preferred
• CPI/NCI, CPR/First Aid, and other required trainings (or ability to obtain)

EXPECTATIONS

• Ability to drive passenger vehicle if applicable
• Annual negative TB test
• Ability to meet all clearance requirements per DBHDD & Georgia law
• Must be able to obtain and maintain paid trainings (CPR, CPI, etc.)
• Must be able to work flexible hours as needed
• Must be able to travel for trainings or meetings
• Must be able to accompany individuals into the community
• Must maintain a professional, person-centered approach
• Annual physical exam verifying freedom from communicable disease

EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS

(Required for DBHDD, DCH, HFRD & Medicaid compliance)

• National and State Background Check (fingerprinting)
• Drug Screening
• TB Evaluation*
• Annual Influenza Vaccine*
• COVID-19 Vaccination and/or weekly testing*
• CPR/First Aid certification
• Required DBHDD Competency-Based Trainings
• HIPAA Compliance Acknowledgement

*Exemptions allowed only with documented medical or approved religious accommodation.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT

A New Well, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based on age, race, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, religion, veteran status, or any protected category under federal or state law.

APPLICATION NOTICE

Due to high application volume, status updates cannot be provided individually. Qualified applicants will be contacted directly. The position may close once a sufficient applicant pool is reached.

LEGAL REQUIREMENT

A National and State Background Check is required as a condition of employment under Georgia law.