Direct Support Professional

RHA Health Services • Norristown, PA

18d

About The Position

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides personalized support to individuals with disabilities, helping them participate meaningfully in their communities and work toward personal goals. The role includes helping individuals identify and express their needs, implementing services aligned with person-centered plans, and fostering independence and self-advocacy. DSPs learn about each person’s history, social and family networks, and aspirations, and provide support with compassion and respect. The position works under supervision and follows established guidelines to ensure high-quality care and advocacy. This 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.
• 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.
• Must be able to regularly lift and carry up to 20 lbs. and occasionally pull at least 40 lbs.
• Must be able to squat, kneel, crawl, crouch, climb, and stoop as part of regular job duties.
• Must be able to use hands and fingers to handle or operate objects, tools, or controls.
• Must be able to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Must demonstrate CPR proficiency from floor level, requiring work on hands and knees, bending, standing, and lifting.
• Vision requirements include close, distance, and peripheral vision.
• Must be able to talk and hear, except for employees in Deaf and Hard of Hearing Programs.
• Pre-employment screening includes a criminal background check; checks of the OIG exclusions database, Child Abuse Registry, and Offenders Against Individuals with Developmental Disabilities registries; drug testing; education verification and other credentialing based on position requirements; and employment history or references if required.
• For positions requiring driving, proof of driver's license, driver's insurance, and vehicle is required if needed to provide transportation for individuals.
• Employees in Deaf and Hard of Hearing Programs must be fluent 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.
• Support community engagement by accompanying individuals to work, recreational activities, and social events.
• Teach and support independent living skills, including household management and personal care.
• Provide transportation for appointments, errands, and community activities.
• Foster social connections by supporting relationship-building within the community.
• Support informed decision-making 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, adapting to individuals’ 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.
• 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. Contract/contingent workers and interns do not qualify for the listed benefits.

What This Job Offers

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