Direct Support Professional

RHA Health Services • Kingsport, TN

11d

About The Position

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

RHA Health Services is expanding services in Hamblen County and Greene County, Tennessee. First-, second-, and third-shift options are available, and applicants should be available for rotating weekend schedules. The position has no supervisory responsibilities.

RHA serves people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and people with mental health and substance use needs. The company describes its mission as providing a safe and healthy environment while creating opportunities for personal outcomes.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Must meet all pre-employment screening requirements.
• Compassion, patience, and dedication 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.
• Weekend availability for rotating weekend schedules.
• For positions requiring transportation, proof of driver's license, driver's insurance, and vehicle, if required for providing transportation.
• For Deaf and Hard of Hearing Programs only, fluency 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 to make their own choices.
• Accompany individuals to work, recreational activities, and social events to facilitate community engagement.
• Teach and support independent living skills, including household management and personal care.
• Provide transportation for appointments, errands, and community activities.
• Support relationship-building and social connections within the community.
• Support informed decisions about living arrangements, employment, and social activities.
• Assist with personal care, including hygiene, bathing, dressing, and household chores such as laundry, cleaning, and decorating.
• Maintain accurate documentation of services and support provided.
• 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 in ways adapted to individual needs and preferences.
• Assist with medication administration in accordance with state laws and regulations.
• Maintain confidentiality and uphold ethical standards in all aspects of care.

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.
• Wellbeing programs addressing physical, emotional, and financial wellbeing.
• 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