Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Ada S. McKinley Community Services, Inc•Chicago, IL

12d

About The Position

Ensures that person-centered programming is implemented on a day-to-day basis within community-based and day service settings, in accordance with each individual’s Person-Centered Plan and agency guidelines. The Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides direct support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, promoting independence, personal growth, dignity, and community inclusion. The DSP supports individuals in developing functional, social, and vocational skills, accessing community resources, and maintaining health and safety during program and community activities, while fostering respectful, professional relationships based on trust and collaboration.

Requirements

A high school diploma or general education equivalent (GED) is required.
Must be at least 18 years of age.
Must successfully pass all required background checks, including a comprehensive criminal background check and DCFS clearance, in accordance with agency and regulatory requirements.
Must successfully pass the TABE test, as required by the program and agency standards.
A valid driver’s license and a satisfactory driving record.
Demonstrates effective communication skills, including the ability to clearly articulate information both verbally and in writing.
Exhibits sound decision-making skills, a strong work ethic, and a dependable employment record.
Demonstrates the ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.

Nice To Haves

One (1) year of experience working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities is preferred; or
A minimum of six (6) months of customer service or related experience, with a demonstrated interest in working with individuals with disabilities.

Responsibilities

Provides direct support to individuals within community-based and day service settings in accordance with their Person-Centered Plans, promoting independence, self-advocacy, dignity, and meaningful participation.
Encourages individuals to make informed choices regarding program activities, services, and personal goals, and supports individuals in expressing their needs, preferences, and interests within program and community environments.
Supports individuals in participating in structured day service activities, skill-building programs, vocational tasks, and group-based experiences designed to enhance functional, social, and pre-vocational skills.
Assists individuals with activities of daily living, as appropriate to the program setting, and provides assistance with toileting needs when required, ensuring dignity, privacy, and respect at all times.
Assists individuals in developing communication, social, behavioral, and functional skills appropriate to program and community settings.
Encourages participation in recreational, educational, and community-based activities aligned with individual interests and goals.
Completes required documentation and performs assigned duties in compliance with applicable regulations and agency policies, including Rule 50, Behavior Support Plans, and other reporting and documentation requirements.
Supports individuals, as appropriate, in developing basic financial awareness and money management skills for educational and skill-building purposes, in accordance with individual goals and program activities.
Transports individuals as required for program and community activities and supports the safe use and basic upkeep of agency or personal vehicles used for program purposes, including reporting maintenance needs, cleanliness concerns, and safety issues in accordance with agency policies.
Maintains a structured, respectful, and supportive program environment by following agency policies related to supervision, safety, transportation, and participation in day services.
Observes and reports changes in individuals’ physical, emotional, or mental health during program activities and communicates relevant information to supervisors and interdisciplinary team members.
Models appropriate interpersonal skills, professional boundaries, and ethical conduct within program and community settings.