Direct Support Professional(DSP)

NEPA INCLUSIVE•Reading, PA

11d

About The Position

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides direct support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in a variety of settings. The role supports individuals according to their Person-Centered Support Plans, Individual Support Plans (ISPs), progress notes, established goals, and individual plans with PA Inclusive. The DSP cooperates and coordinates with other agency services and helps individuals participate in community activities, develop skills, and pursue independent living and employment-related activities. The DSP is responsible for individuals’ health, safety, welfare, and well-being, including responding appropriately to emergencies and crisis situations. The role includes transporting and accompanying individuals to approved destinations and activities, maintaining accurate and timely documentation, complying with applicable regulations and agency requirements, communicating with individuals and stakeholders, and attending assigned meetings, trainings, and events. The position requires a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and varying shifts as program needs require.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED equivalent.
Valid driver’s license, acceptable driving record, and automobile insurance as required by agency policy.
Must pass Child Abuse History and Criminal Record Check clearances and not be excluded from Pennsylvania State Exclusion Lists.
Ability to obtain state- and agency-required employment certifications, including but not limited to APSE, CESP, ACRE, and/or Discovery.
Effective communication and presentation skills.
Computer knowledge and strong documentation and organizational skills.
Ability to safely move throughout community settings and accompany individuals during activities and appointments.
Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, kneel, reach, and perform other physical activities necessary to support individuals.
Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 25/50 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation; the posting does not specify which limit applies.
Ability to assist individuals with mobility needs, transfers, and other physical support requirements identified in service plans.
Ability to safely operate a motor vehicle for extended periods.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with people with intellectual disabilities, autism, or mental health disabilities.
Transferable experience or skills in coaching, teaching, mentoring, or similar activities.

Responsibilities

Provide direct support in accordance with individuals’ Person-Centered Support Plans, Individual Support Plans, established goals, and other applicable plans.
Supervise and promote the health, safety, welfare, and well-being of individuals, responding appropriately to emergencies and crisis situations.
Assist with community participation, skill development, independent living activities, employment-related activities, and other services identified in support plans.
Safely transport individuals to and from community activities, appointments, employment sites, and other approved destinations using a personal vehicle.
Accompany individuals in community settings and actively support them during activities, appointments, and events.
Complete required documentation, progress notes, incident reports, mileage logs, and other records accurately, promptly, and in compliance with applicable requirements.
Comply with applicable federal and state regulations, licensing and funding-source requirements, and agency policies and procedures.
Communicate with individuals served, families, supports coordinators, supervisors, healthcare professionals, and other stakeholders.
Attend and participate in required meetings, trainings, and agency events as assigned.
Maintain regular, reliable attendance and report to assigned worksites and community locations as scheduled.
Work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and varying shifts as program needs require.
Serve as a member of the agency team and represent the organization professionally.
Perform other job-related duties as assigned.