DSP Open House (recruiting for all regions): Thursday, November 5th, 2026
About The Position
The Direct Support Professional empowers persons with developmental disabilities to live fulfilling lives by providing personalized support and fostering independence. The role promotes individual growth, quality of life, and a supportive environment. The position implements and monitors individual plans of care, including person-centered plans, treatment plans, and behavior support plans. It provides direct assistance with daily living, personal hygiene, meal preparation, medication administration, transportation, appointments, and healthcare follow-up. The Direct Support Professional also supports community participation, social and vocational development, and life skills while maintaining accurate records and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams and families. The role advocates for the rights, choices, and preferences of the people supported, promotes self-advocacy, and follows applicable agency and regulatory policies. The New York Foundling describes itself as a New York-based nonprofit whose programs support children and families, individuals with developmental disabilities, and neighbors seeking health and mental health services. The agency states its commitment to an inclusive, equitable, and welcoming community.
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Valid NY, NJ, CT, or PA driver’s license, with at least six months of experience and six or fewer points.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Patience, empathy, and a genuine desire to support persons with developmental disabilities.
- Commitment to compassionate care and to promoting dignity and respect.
- Ability to respond effectively to changing needs and environments, with flexibility and problem-solving skills.
- Maintain confidentiality, uphold ethical standards, and follow agency policies and procedures.
- Demonstrated strong commitment to safety.
Nice To Haves
- Experience in direct care or human services.
- CPR and First Aid certification.
- Additional training in developmental disabilities, behavior management, or healthcare.
Responsibilities
- Implement and monitor individual plans of care, including Comprehensive Functional Assessments, Staff Action Plans, Life Plans, treatment plans, and Behavior Support Plans.
- Implement and document goals and objectives in person-centered plans, supporting social, vocational, and life skills through structured activities and positive reinforcement.
- Provide direct care and assistance with daily living activities, including personal hygiene, meal preparation, medication administration, and transportation.
- Facilitate community outings, recreational activities, and social events that promote inclusion, independence, and meaningful interactions.
- Accompany individuals to appointments and support healthcare follow-up.
- Use person-centered approaches and positive behavior support strategies to address challenging behaviors and maintain a safe, nurturing environment.
- Provide the level of supervision and support needed for individuals’ medical, developmental, clinical, and emotional needs.
- Maintain accurate records, daily progress notes, and incident reports, and comply with agency policies and regulatory requirements.
- Collaborate with healthcare professionals, therapists, family members, and interdisciplinary teams to develop and implement comprehensive care plans.
- Advocate for individuals’ rights, choices, and preferences and promote self-advocacy and empowerment in decision-making.
- Act as a custodian and mandated reporter in accordance with OPWDD, NYSJC, and organizational policies.
- Administer medication according to prescribed schedules, document administration, and monitor for adverse reactions or side effects.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
