Direct Support Professional DSP

Choices for People • Jefferson City, MO

16d • $18 - $20

About The Position

Choices for People provides year-round support and instructional programs to help individuals with disabilities develop essential life skills, promoting inclusion, independence, self-sufficiency, productivity, and quality of life in the least restrictive environment possible. The organization assists with individual goal-oriented program planning and advocates for removing barriers in the community.

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) supports individuals in developing daily living, social, communication, and community inclusion skills as outlined in their Person Centered Support Plan (PCSP). The role provides individualized support, facilitates group and room activities, assists with personal care and daily living needs, and promotes participation in program and community activities. The DSP collaborates with individuals, families, and interdisciplinary team members to provide safe, respectful, and effective services.

Requirements

• At least 18 years of age.
• Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing with individuals served, families, employers, community partners, and interdisciplinary team members.
• Ability to understand, follow, and implement PCSPs, professional instructions, and service guidelines.
• Ability to document services accurately, objectively, and promptly using electronic documentation systems and organizational forms.
• Working knowledge of person-centered practices, community-based services, inclusion, and self-determination.
• Ability to provide hands-on assistance with daily living activities, including personal hygiene, mobility, and personal care, as required by PCSPs.
• Ability to facilitate or assist with structured group activities, room-based programming, and community outings.
• Ability to build respectful, supportive relationships and engage effectively with individuals with diverse abilities and needs.
• Ability to work independently, manage time, and adapt to changing schedules, environments, and individual needs.
• Strong observational skills and attention to detail for safety, quality service delivery, and accurate documentation.
• Commitment to the organization’s mission, values, policies, and person-centered service philosophy.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and comply with HIPAA and applicable privacy regulations.
• Basic proficiency with Microsoft Office applications such as Word and Outlook, and documentation or data-entry software.
• Ability to represent the organization professionally in community, employment, and public settings.
• Ability to obtain a Missouri Class E driver license.
• Ability to provide physical assistance with personal hygiene, transfers, mobility, and other activities of daily living.
• Ability to frequently stand, walk, bend, stoop, and move throughout the workday in varied environments.
• Ability to routinely lift, carry, push, or pull up to 30 pounds, and to handle more than 30 pounds with assistance as needed.
• Ability to participate in indoor or outdoor community-based activities.
• Ability to work in private homes, workplaces, and community locations, potentially involving uneven surfaces, varying noise levels, and changing weather conditions.
• Job offers are contingent upon successful completion of a criminal background check and drug screen.

Nice To Haves

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Experience providing person-centered support to individuals with disabilities preferred.
• CPR, First Aid, and AED certification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Establish and maintain a safe, respectful, and supportive environment that encourages individual choice, self-expression, and personal growth.
• Provide person-centered support in accordance with each individual’s PCSP to promote independence, skill development, and community inclusion.
• Deliver individualized and group services, training, and supports in alignment with professional guidance, individual plans, and organizational policies.
• Facilitate structured day program, room, and community-based activities that promote learning, socialization, and meaningful engagement.
• Support development of daily living, communication, social, and self-advocacy skills.
• Assist with personal care and hygiene, including toileting, grooming, dressing, and related daily living activities as required by the PCSP.
• Support individuals in maintaining personal spaces and participating in routine housekeeping, room, and program tasks.
• Promote inclusion and participation in community activities, outings, and recreational opportunities.
• Assist with transportation and community participation, including loading, securing, and unloading mobility devices as needed.
• Monitor individuals’ needs, behaviors, and support requirements and report concerns according to organizational procedures.
• Coordinate and oversee services authorized by DHSS, DMH, Veterans Affairs, or other referral sources.
• Communicate with individuals, families, guardians, and interdisciplinary team members to share updates and coordinate service delivery.
• Complete required documentation and records accurately and promptly in accordance with program, funding, and regulatory requirements.
• Follow organizational policies, procedures, state and federal regulations, and compliance standards.
• Maintain knowledge of relevant industry trends, best practices, and regulations.
• Operate facility vehicles when required, following safety policies, licensing requirements, and governmental regulations.
• Protect confidential individual, staff, and organizational information and comply with HIPAA and applicable privacy laws during and after employment.

What This Job Offers

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