Direct Support Professional/PAHrtners Deaf Services

RHA Health Services, LLC • Glenside, PA

2d

About The Position

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides personalized support to individuals with disabilities, helping them participate meaningfully in their communities and achieve personal goals. The DSP helps individuals identify and express their needs, implements services aligned with person-centered plans, and fosters independence and self-advocacy. The role requires understanding each individual’s history, social and family networks, and aspirations, and providing support with compassion and respect. The position operates under supervision and follows established guidelines to ensure high-quality care and advocacy.

This position is part of PAHrtners Deaf Services. Employees in Deaf and Hard of Hearing programs must be fluent in American Sign Language (ASL); the stated requirement to talk and hear does not apply to these programs. The position has no supervisory responsibilities.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Must meet all pre-employment screening requirements, including criminal background checks, registry checks, drug testing, and education verification; other credentialing and references may be required based on position requirements.
• 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 Deaf and Hard of Hearing programs, fluency in American Sign Language (ASL) is required.
• For positions requiring driving, proof of driver's license, driver's insurance, and a vehicle may be required.
• Able to regularly lift and carry up to 20 lbs. and occasionally pull at least 40 lbs.
• Able to squat, kneel, crawl, crouch, climb, and stoop as part of regular duties.
• Able to use hands and fingers to handle or operate objects, tools, or controls.
• Able to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Able to demonstrate CPR proficiency from floor level, including working on hands and knees, bending, standing, and lifting.
• Vision requirements include close, distance, and peripheral vision.
• Able to talk and hear, except this requirement does not apply to employees in Deaf and Hard of Hearing programs.

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 to make their own choices.
• Accompany individuals to work, recreational activities, social events, and other community activities.
• Teach and support independent living skills, including household management and personal care.
• Provide transportation for appointments, errands, and community activities.
• Support individuals in building social connections within the community.
• Support informed decision-making about living arrangements, employment, and social activities.
• Assist with hygiene, bathing, dressing, laundry, cleaning, decorating, and other personal care or household tasks.
• Maintain accurate documentation of services and support provided.
• Understand challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and use effective advocacy strategies.
• Connect individuals with community resources for career development, education, and volunteer opportunities.
• Encourage effective communication by adapting to individual needs and preferences.
• Assist with medication administration in accordance with state laws and regulations.
• Maintain confidentiality and uphold ethical standards.

Benefits

• Payactiv early access to earned wages before payday.
• Employee perks and discount program.
• Paid time off for full-time employees only.
• Health insurance for full-time employees only.
• 401(k) retirement savings program.
• Physical, emotional, and financial wellbeing programs.
• Chronic disease management programs for hypertension and diabetes for qualifying employees.
• 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