Direct Support Professional

InCommunity•, GA

5d•$15 - $17•Onsite

About The Position

The Direct Support Professional supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in living safe, healthy, and joyful lives in their communities. The role models InCommunity’s values of integrity, service, and respect for each individual’s dignity while providing person-centered support in residential homes, day programs, and community settings. The DSP assists individuals with daily living activities, personal goals, health and wellness, community participation, relationships, meal preparation, and household routines. The role requires respectful communication, accurate documentation, adherence to individual support and medical plans, and appropriate responses to emergencies or challenging behaviors. The position has no supervisory duties and requires frequent travel throughout the Metro Atlanta area.

Requirements

A high school diploma or equivalent is preferred.
At least six months of experience in developmental disabilities, mental health, or aging services is preferred.
Personal or volunteer experience supporting individuals with disabilities may be considered.
Must possess a valid driver’s license and meet company driving standards, if applicable.
Ability to perform frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, and lifting.
Ability to assist individuals with mobility needs, including transfers 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 such as 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 monitor individuals’ 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.
At least six months of experience in developmental disabilities, mental health, or aging services.
Personal or volunteer experience supporting individuals with disabilities may be considered.

Responsibilities

Interact respectfully with individuals and attend to verbal and nonverbal communication.
Encourage and assist individuals to participate in home and community activities that reflect their interests and choices.
Support individuals in identifying and working toward 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 and help coordinate visits and special events.
Respect individuals’ and families’ religious or spiritual practices and choices.
Model appropriate behavior and communication, maintaining professionalism and a respectful tone.
Maintain a safe, comfortable home environment and support individuals’ personal choices.
Safely transport individuals in accordance with company and regulatory procedures.
Read and follow ISPs, medical protocols, and communication logs.
Monitor and document daily activities, health concerns, and behavioral changes.
Assist with hygiene, grooming, and dressing according to individual needs and preferences.
Observe changes in health and promptly report concerns to supervisors or nursing staff.
Follow medical instructions, medication guidelines, and treatment plans.
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; keep walkways and exits clear 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 individual dietary needs; encourage family-style meals and positive conversation.
Follow food safety and labeling procedures.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe home; complete cleaning checklists and laundry duties.
Keep company vehicles clean and fueled and maintain required vehicle documentation.
Seek guidance from supervisors or coordinators when unsure about procedures or responsibilities.
Communicate respectfully with coworkers and collaborate to provide consistent, quality care.
Demonstrate flexibility during emergencies or unexpected situations and maintain confidentiality.
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 and documentation tasks, check on individuals at designated times, support morning routines when applicable, contact supervisors about health concerns, and complete assigned household duties.