Direct Service Professional (DSP) (General Pool)

AbilityFirst • Pasadena, CA

6d • Onsite

About The Position

At AbilityFirst, we look beyond disabilities, focus on capabilities, and expand possibilities. Our team supports children and adults with developmental and physical disabilities to live more independent, fulfilling lives. We’re building a general candidate pool for Direct Service Professionals (DSP) across multiple locations, meaning if you apply, you may be considered for current and future openings that match your availability and preferences.

As a Direct Service Professional (DSP), you’ll work directly with participants to support daily activities, personal goals, and community engagement. This is a hands-on, active role where you’ll build relationships, support independence, and create meaningful experiences.

Requirements

• Experience in direct care, personal assistance, or support services.
• Comfort with personal care needs including feeding, hygiene, and mobility support.
• A team player who leads with patience, compassion, and consistency.
• A High School diploma or equivalent is required.
• Must be able to provide physical assistance including lifting or transferring participants is required.
• Willingness to participate in swimming and community activities to assist participants in the pool or in community is required.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills is required.
• Ability to work effectively with people of diverse races, ethnicities, and sexual orientations in a multicultural environment is required.
• Must be able to work evenings/weekends as needed.
• Ability to obtain First Aid/CPR certification.
• Successful completion of background (LiveScan) check.
• TB Test
• Live Scan (fingerprinting/background check)
• Drug Screening
• Required vaccinations: Hepatitis B, TDaP, and MMR
• Physical / fitness-for-duty clearance

Nice To Haves

• Experience in these roles is a plus: Direct Support Professional (DSP), Caregiver, Behavioral Technician, Paraprofessional, Teacher, Instructional Aide, Behavioral Therapist, CNA, Home Health Aide, or similar.
• A Bachelor’s Degree in a related field or equivalent experience is preferred.
• 12 ECE (Early Childhood Education) college units in any related field may be required for childcare programs.
• 1-2 years of experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities is preferred.
• Strong understanding of person-centered practices, goal setting, and community integration is preferred.
• Proficient in documentation systems such as ProCare, Microsoft Office, and data management programs is preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and data management tools is preferred.
• Valid Driver’s License is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Actively supervise participants at all times; ensure health, safety, and engagement.
• Work within the designated staffing ratio throughout the program day.
• Implement daily activities and lesson plans that reflect each participant’s Person-Centered Plan (PCP) goals.
• Create and facilitate engaging, inclusive group activities.
• Collaborate with team members to develop monthly activity calendars for assigned groups.
• Complete accurate and timely daily documentation of participant goal progress.
• Report and document any case notes or significant participant concerns immediately.
• Maintain confidentiality and uphold the dignity and rights of all participants.
• For community care licensed programs, assist participants with all aspects of personal care including: Feeding, diapering (may include use of hoyer lift), toileting, and hygiene needs.
• Support participants in swimming activities as needed.
• Supervise and support participants ensuring safety and active engagement.
• Help participants access volunteer opportunities in the community.
• Drive agency vehicles or accompany participants on public transportation as needed once approved as an AF driver.
• Complete all required staff training including but not limited to: Active supervision, behavior support, lifting/transferring, feeding/personal care, and safety protocols.
• Participate in ongoing training, coaching, and staff meetings to support professional growth and participant outcomes.
• Uphold our commitment as a Mandated Reporter, ensuring the safety and well-being of all participants.
• Complete all required staff training assigned each quarter.
• Other duties and responsibilities as assigned to support the mission of the program and organization.

Benefits

• Kaiser
• Dental and Vision Insurance
• Generous Paid Time Off
• 12 Paid Holidays
• Employee Discount Program
• reimbursement for Mileage and Cellphone (where applicable)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED