Direct Support Professional (Hourly - Evenings)

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides compassionate, person-centered support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and behavioral health challenges in residential and community settings. DSPs play a vital role in helping individuals achieve greater independence, enhance their quality of life, and maintain their health, safety, and overall well-being.

Working as part of an interdisciplinary team, the DSP assists with daily living activities, community participation, skill development, and the implementation of individualized service plans. The ideal candidate is patient, dependable, and committed to promoting dignity, choice, inclusion, and personal growth.

Individual Support & Care

Provide direct care and supervision to individuals in residential settings.

Personal hygiene and grooming

Dressing and personal care

Meal planning and preparation

Support individuals in achieving goals outlined in their Individual Service Plans (ISP) and behavior support plans.

Foster a safe, supportive, and respectful environment that preserves individual dignity and privacy.

Utilize trauma-informed approaches and positive behavioral support strategies.

Community Integration

Support participation in community activities, recreational programs, employment opportunities, educational programs, religious services, and family visits.

Encourage meaningful social interactions and community engagement.

Monitor and support the health, safety, and well-being of individuals served.

Administer medications and maintain required medication documentation in accordance with agency policies and state regulations.

Implement prescribed healthcare plans and monitor for changes in condition.

Health monitoring records

Support licensing requirements, audits, inspections, and regulatory compliance activities.

Attend required trainings, staff meetings, and supervision sessions.

Safely transport individuals to appointments, community activities, employment programs, and other destinations.

Meal planning and preparation

Housekeeping and organization

Collaborate effectively with Residential Managers, Lead DSPs, healthcare providers, families, and other team members.

Assist in implementing individualized goals, services, and support plans.

Participate in emergency response efforts, on-call coverage, and special projects as needed.

Perform additional duties as assigned to support quality services and organizational objectives.

High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent.

Ability to successfully complete all required training, including CPR and First Aid certification.

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Human Services, Social Work, Psychology, Special Education, or a related field.

Six (6) months to one (1) year of experience supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities or working in a human services environment.

Understanding of person-centered and trauma-informed care practices.

Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office, email, and electronic documentation systems.

Commitment to confidentiality, ethical standards, and quality care.

Ability to stand, walk, bend, reach, stoop, and assist individuals throughout the workday.

Ability to operate a motor vehicle and safely transport individuals served.

Ability to work in residential and community environments throughout New Jersey.

Ability to respond quickly in emergency situations and provide physical assistance when required.

This position requires flexibility to meet the needs of the individuals served and may include:

Day, evening, overnight, weekend, and holiday shifts

Overtime as needed

As a Direct Support Professional, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Through compassionate support and person-centered care, you will help individuals build independence, achieve personal goals, and actively participate in their communities.

Join a mission-driven team that values compassion, respect, inclusion, and excellence in the services we provide.

is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing services and supports that enable people with disabilities and their families to live independently. Recognized as one of New Jersey's leading disability service providers, Advancing Opportunities is committed to delivering person-centered services in community-based settings.

provides administrative and shared services to a network of more than 30 nonprofit and for-profit organizations across the United States. With over 3,500 employees nationwide, Apis Services supports organizations focused on improving the lives of individuals, families, and communities.

We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants in accordance with federal, state, and local laws. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.