Direct Support Professional- (Residential Services) Abbeville LA

ARC OF ACADIANA INC•Abbeville, LA

4d•Onsite

About The Position

As a Direct Support Professional (DSP) at Arc of Acadiana, you will support individuals in our Community Group Homes, where a small group of residents (generally up to eight individuals) live together in a home-like setting. DSPs play a critical role in promoting safety, dignity, independence, and quality of life by supporting daily routines, personal care, and community involvement. This is meaningful, hands-on work that requires reliability, compassion, and teamwork. You will receive training and ongoing support to help you succeed in the role. Direct Support Professionals must be at least 21 years of age and may be assigned to work at different residential homes as needed to support staffing and operational requirements.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent required
Must be at least 21 years of age
A valid driver’s license is required when assigned to homes requiring transportation support.
Ability to stand, walk, bend, lift, and assist residents with mobility and daily activities
Ability to remain awake and alert during assigned shifts
Ability to respond quickly and appropriately in emergency situations

Nice To Haves

Previous experience providing direct support, caregiving, or similar work is preferred, but not required
Dependable, caring, and able to work as part of a team
Able to follow instructions and use good judgment
Good communication skills

Responsibilities

Assist residents with activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, feeding, mobility, and personal hygiene.
Encourage independence, choice, and participation while providing appropriate supervision and support.
Support residents in building daily living, social, and functional skills based on individual plans.
Remain with residents at all times while on duty; residents are not to be left alone.
Remain awake and alert during all assigned shifts, including overnight shifts, to take prompt and appropriate action in the event of injury, illness, fire, or other emergencies.
Follow all safety procedures, emergency protocols, and evacuation procedures as trained.
Promote the health, safety, and welfare of each resident at all times.
Assist with medication administration after completing required training and certification.
Observe residents for changes in health, behavior, or condition and report concerns promptly.
Follow infection control and universal precautions as trained.
Assist with meal preparation in accordance with approved menus and diet orders.
Prepare and serve food using appropriate utensils and portioning tools.
Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of kitchens, food preparation areas, bathrooms, and common spaces.
Ensure proper handling, storage, and disposal of food as instructed.
Assist with cleaning, laundry, and maintaining a safe and orderly home environment.
Complete required documentation accurately and on time, including progress notes, objectives, logs, shift reports, and incident reports.
Communicate important information during shift changes to ensure continuity of care.
Promptly report incidents, injuries, medical concerns, or unusual occurrences to the Manager On-Call or Home Manager in accordance with agency procedures.
Maintain confidentiality of all resident and agency information.
Support residents in participating in community activities, appointments, and outings as assigned.
Operate Arc of Acadiana vehicles, including vans, to transport residents as required.
Work collaboratively with Home Managers, supervisors, and fellow DSPs.
Attend required staff meetings, trainings, and in-service education.
Communicate respectfully and professionally with residents, families, coworkers, and community partners.