Direct Support Professional PL1 FT 1st

RHA Health Services, LLC • Wallingford, CT

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) at RHA Health Services provides personalized support to individuals with intellectual, developmental disabilities, and people facing mental health, and substance use challenges. The role focuses on helping individuals engage meaningfully in their communities, achieve personal goals, and foster independence and self-advocacy. This involves assisting individuals in identifying and expressing their needs, implementing services aligned with their person-centered plans, and understanding their history, social and family networks, and aspirations. A successful DSP provides support with compassion and respect. This position operates under supervision and follows established guidelines to ensure high-quality care and advocacy. RHA Health Services' mission is to provide a safe and healthy environment while creating opportunities for personal outcomes for the people they serve and support. For over 30 years, RHA has partnered with and celebrated people achieving their personal goals, building meaningful connections, and experiencing positive outcomes in health and wellness.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Must be at least 18 years of age
• Meet all pre-employment screening (complete criminal background, name checked in the registries such as OIG exclusions database, Child Abuse Registry, and Offenders Against Individuals with Developmental Disabilities, drug testing, education verification and other credentialing based on position requirements, proof of employment history or references if required)
• Compassionate, patient, and dedicated to person-centered support.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to foster independence while providing necessary support.
• Knowledge of disability rights, self-advocacy, and community integration principles.
• Ability to maintain accurate records and follow regulatory guidelines.
• For positions that require driving: Proof of driver's license, driver's insurance, and vehicle, IF required for providing transportation for individuals.
• For Deaf and Hard of Hearing Programs only: employees must be fluent in American Sign Language (ASL).

Responsibilities

• Advocate for individuals’ human, legal, and civil rights.
• Promote health and safety by supporting wellness initiatives and accident prevention.
• Encourage self-advocacy and empower individuals in making their own choices.
• Facilitate community engagement by accompanying individuals to work, recreational activities, and social events.
• Teach and support independent living skills, including household management and personal care.
• Provide transportation for appointments, errands, and community activities.
• Foster social connections by supporting relationship-building within the community.
• Support informed decision-making regarding living arrangements, employment, and social activities.
• Assist with personal care tasks, such as hygiene, bathing, dressing, and household chores (laundry, cleaning, and decorating).
• Maintain accurate documentation of provided services and support.
• Understand and address challenges faced by individuals with disabilities, using effective advocacy strategies.
• Connect individuals with community resources for career development, education, and volunteer opportunities.
• Encourage effective communication, adapting to individual needs and preferences.
• Assist with medication administration in accordance with state laws and regulations.
• Ensure confidentiality and uphold ethical standards in all aspects of care.

Benefits

• Payactiv: early access to the money you’ve earned from hours you’ve already worked, before payday!
• Employee perks and discount program: to help you save money!
• Paid Time Off (full-time employees only)
• Health/Insurance (full-time employees only)
• 401(k) retirement savings program
• Wellbeing Programs: Physical, Emotional and Financial
• Chronic Disease management programs for hypertension and diabetes (for qualifying employees)
• Training: Free CPR, first aid, and job-specific training opportunities

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees