Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Job Description

Job Description

Direct Support Professional (DSP) – Full-Time | Chicago, IL

A community-based human services organization is seeking compassionate and dependable Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to support adults with intellectual, developmental, emotional, neurological, behavioral, and other disabilities in Chicago, Illinois.

This is a hands-on, person-centered role focused on helping individuals develop skills, make choices, participate in their communities, and achieve greater independence. DSPs may serve as caregivers, mentors, teachers, advocates, and positive role models while supporting individualized goals.

Compensation

$22.00–$30.00 per hour. Compensation within the range may vary based on relevant experience, qualifications, certifications, assignment, shift requirements, and other job-related factors.

Schedule

This is a full-time position. Scheduling varies by program and assignment and may include day, evening, overnight, weekend, or holiday shifts. Specific availability requirements will be discussed during the hiring process.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide respectful, individualized support based on each person's needs, abilities, preferences, goals, and service plan.
• Encourage independence, self-advocacy, decision-making, and active participation in daily life.
• Assist or teach activities of daily living such as personal care, meal preparation, shopping, laundry, household routines, mobility, and personal safety.
• Help individuals build independent living, communication, social, problem-solving, budgeting, transportation, and community-navigation skills.
• Support participation in recreational, educational, vocational, social, and community activities.
• Follow individualized behavioral and safety plans and use approved prevention and de-escalation strategies when applicable.
• Observe and report changes in health, behavior, mood, or functioning.
• Assist with medication responsibilities only when appropriately trained and authorized.
• Complete timely, accurate, objective service notes, incident reports, goal documentation, and other required records.
• Communicate professionally with supervisors, coworkers, clinicians, families, guardians, and other members of the support team.
• Support transportation and community appointments when required by the assignment.
• Maintain confidentiality, professional boundaries, individual rights, dignity, and safety.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent.
• At least 18 years of age.
• Ability to successfully complete applicable background checks and required training.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to read and follow service plans, behavioral plans, safety procedures, and instructions.
• Ability to complete accurate documentation.
• Dependable attendance and ability to work a full-time schedule.
• Ability to remain professional and calm in challenging situations.
• Valid driver's license and acceptable driving history may be required depending on assignment.

Preferred Experience

Previous DSP experience is helpful but related backgrounds may also be considered, including developmental disabilities, behavioral health, mental health, residential care, caregiving, human services, social services, CNA, Home Health Aide, Personal Care Assistant, Mental Health Technician, Behavioral Health Technician, Residential Aide, or Community Support Specialist experience.

Physical Requirements

Requirements vary by assignment and may include standing or walking for extended periods, bending, reaching, household activities, personal-care assistance, pushing mobility equipment, assisting with mobility or transfers after appropriate training, and responding promptly during emergencies. Reasonable accommodations may be available to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with applicable law.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Avento Health is committed to connecting qualified candidates with employers that provide equal employment opportunities. Employment decisions are made without unlawful discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

SMS Communication Consent

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