Direct Support Professional

InCommunity•Roswell, GA

23d•$12 - $13•Onsite

About The Position

InCommunity is committed to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live safe, healthy, and joyful lives in their communities. Direct Support Professionals are expected to model and promote the organization’s mission and values, including integrity, service, and respect for each individual’s dignity. The role supports individuals in residential homes, day programs, and community settings, helping them pursue personal goals, participate in activities of their choice, and maintain their health, safety, and well-being. The position includes assisting with activities of daily living, personal care, meals, household tasks, transportation, medical appointments, and use of adaptive or medical equipment. DSPs document activities and changes in health or behavior, follow individual support plans and medical protocols, and communicate with supervisors, coworkers, families, and healthcare providers as appropriate. The role requires professional, respectful interaction and careful handling of confidential information. Schedules may include evenings, weekends, holidays, and overnight shifts, depending on the needs of the individuals supported. Frequent travel throughout the Metro Atlanta area is required. Work involves frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, and lifting; assisting with mobility and transfers; household duties; and responding to emergencies. Reasonable accommodations may be made in accordance with the ADA and organizational policy.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
At least six months of experience in developmental disabilities, mental health, or aging services preferred; personal or volunteer experience supporting individuals with disabilities may be considered.
Valid driver’s license and compliance with company driving standards, if applicable.
Ability to perform frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, and lifting throughout a shift.
Ability to assist individuals with mobility needs, including transfers to and from wheelchairs, beds, and vehicles using proper lifting techniques or mechanical lifts.
Ability to lift or move items or individuals weighing up to 25 pounds, occasionally more with team assistance or mechanical support.
Ability to perform household tasks including cleaning, laundry, meal preparation, and light maintenance.
Ability to respond quickly and effectively to emergencies, including fire drills, medical incidents, and behavioral interventions.
Visual and auditory acuity sufficient to support safety and observe changes in behavior or health.
Ability to safely operate a motor vehicle if assigned to transport individuals.

Nice To Haves

High school diploma or equivalent.
Six months of experience in developmental disabilities, mental health, or aging services.
Personal or volunteer experience supporting individuals with disabilities.

Responsibilities

Interact respectfully with individuals, taking account of verbal and nonverbal communication.
Encourage and assist individuals in participating in home and community activities that reflect their interests and choices.
Support individuals in identifying and pursuing personal goals in their Individual Support Plans (ISPs).
Teach and assist with activities of daily living, including cooking, cleaning, and personal hygiene.
Promote relationships with individuals’ families and friends, including helping coordinate visits and special events.
Respect individuals’ and families’ religious or spiritual practices and choices.
Model appropriate behavior and communication, maintaining professionalism and self-control.
Maintain a safe, comfortable home environment and support individuals’ personal choices.
Safely transport individuals in accordance with company and regulatory safety procedures.
Read and follow ISPs, medical protocols, and communication logs.
Monitor and accurately document daily activities, health concerns, and behavioral changes.
Assist with hygiene, grooming, and dressing according to individual needs and preferences.
Observe changes in health status and promptly report concerns to supervisors or nursing staff.
Follow medical instructions, medication guidelines, and treatment plans as directed.
Accompany individuals to medical appointments and support communication with healthcare providers.
Provide physical assistance as needed, including safe use of mechanical lifts and other equipment.
Follow safety and emergency procedures, including evacuation drills; maintain clear walkways and exits and remove snow or debris when necessary.
Know how to use emergency equipment such as fire extinguishers and alarms, and use adaptive and medical equipment as trained.
Assist with meal planning, grocery shopping, food preparation, and cleanup; prepare meals according to menus, nutrition guidelines, and dietary needs.
Encourage family-style meals and positive mealtime conversation, and follow food safety and labeling procedures.
Maintain clean, organized, and safe homes; complete cleaning checklists and laundry duties.
Keep company vehicles clean and fueled and maintain proper vehicle documentation.
Seek guidance from supervisors or coordinators when unsure about procedures or responsibilities.
Communicate respectfully and effectively with coworkers and collaborate to provide consistent, quality care.
Demonstrate flexibility and cooperation during emergencies or unexpected situations.
Maintain confidentiality and refrain from gossip or disclosing sensitive information.
Arrive punctually and prepared, remain on duty until properly relieved, and follow attendance and scheduling policies.
For overnight shifts, remain awake and alert; complete checklist, safety, cleaning, and documentation tasks; check on individuals at designated times; assist with morning routines when applicable; follow health protocols; contact supervisors about concerns; and complete household duties before shift end.