Direct Support Professional

InCommunity•, GA

23d•$16 - $17•Onsite

About The Position

InCommunity supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live safe, healthy, and joyful lives in their communities. Direct Support Professionals are expected to model and promote the organization’s mission and values, including integrity, service, respect, and the dignity of every individual. The role provides person-centered support in residential homes, day programs, and community settings, including assistance with daily living, health and well-being, social inclusion, safety, meals, and household tasks. The position requires frequent travel throughout the Metro Atlanta area. Schedules may include evenings, weekends, holidays, and overnight shifts based on the needs of the individuals supported; this posting specifies a weekend-only shift.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
At least six months of experience in developmental disabilities, mental health, or aging services preferred; personal or volunteer experience supporting individuals with disabilities may be considered.
Valid driver’s license and compliance with 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 to help ensure individuals’ safety and observe changes in behavior or health.
Ability to safely operate a motor vehicle if assigned to transport individuals.
Ability to travel frequently throughout the Metro Atlanta area.

Nice To Haves

Personal or volunteer experience supporting individuals with disabilities may be considered.

Responsibilities

Interact with individuals respectfully and consider verbal and nonverbal communication.
Encourage and assist individuals to participate in home and community activities reflecting their interests and choices.
Support individuals in identifying and pursuing personal 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-event participation.
Respect individuals’ and families’ religious or spiritual practices and choices.
Model appropriate behavior and professional, respectful communication.
Maintain a safe and comfortable home environment while supporting individuals’ personal choices.
Safely transport individuals while following company and regulatory safety procedures.
Read and follow ISPs, medical protocols, and communication logs.
Monitor and document daily activities, health concerns, and behavioral changes accurately.
Assist with hygiene, grooming, and dressing according to individuals’ needs and preferences.
Observe changes in health status and promptly report concerns to supervisors or nursing staff.
Follow medical instructions, medication guidelines, and treatment plans as directed.
Accompany individuals to medical appointments and support communication with healthcare providers.
Provide physical assistance as needed, including safe use of mechanical lifts or other equipment.
Follow safety and emergency procedures, including evacuation drills; maintain clear walkways and exits 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 and effectively with coworkers and collaborate to provide consistent, quality care.
Demonstrate flexibility and cooperation during emergencies or unexpected situations.
Maintain confidentiality and avoid gossip or sharing sensitive information.
Be punctual and ready to start on time, remain on duty until properly relieved, and follow attendance and scheduling policies.
For overnight shifts, remain awake and alert, complete checklist and household tasks, check on individuals at designated times, assist with morning routines when applicable, and follow health protocols and report concerns.