Direct Support Professional/PAHrtners Deaf Services

RHA Health Services • Glenside, PA

23h

About The Position

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides personalized support to individuals with disabilities, helping them engage meaningfully in their communities and achieve personal goals. The role assists individuals in identifying and expressing their needs, implements services aligned with person-centered plans, and fosters independence and self-advocacy. The DSP seeks to understand each individual’s history, social and family networks, and aspirations, and provides support with compassion and respect. The position operates under supervision and follows established guidelines to ensure high-quality care and advocacy. This opening is for PAHrtners Deaf Services; employees in Deaf and Hard of Hearing Programs must be fluent in American Sign Language (ASL). The usual requirement to talk and hear does not apply to these programs.

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.
• For Deaf and Hard of Hearing Programs, fluency in American Sign Language (ASL) is required.
• Must regularly lift and carry up to 20 pounds and occasionally pull at least 40 pounds.
• 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 working on hands and knees, bending, standing, and lifting.
• Vision requirements include close, distance, and peripheral vision.
• Must be able to talk and hear; this requirement does not apply to Deaf and Hard of Hearing Programs.
• Pre-employment screening includes criminal background checks, name checks in the OIG exclusions database, Child Abuse Registry, and Offenders Against Individuals with Developmental Disabilities registry, drug testing, education verification, and other credentialing based on position requirements.
• For positions requiring driving, proof of driver's license, driver's insurance, and vehicle may be required if providing transportation for individuals.

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.
• Accompany individuals to work, recreational activities, social events, and other community activities.
• Teach and support independent living skills, including household management and personal care.
• Provide transportation for appointments, errands, and community activities.
• Support relationship-building and social connections within the community.
• Support informed decision-making about living arrangements, employment, and social activities.
• Assist with personal care tasks such as hygiene, bathing, and dressing, as well as household chores such as laundry, cleaning, and decorating.
• Maintain accurate documentation of services and support provided.
• Understand challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and use effective advocacy strategies.
• Connect individuals with community resources for career development, education, and volunteer opportunities.
• Encourage effective communication, adapting to individual 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.
• Health and insurance benefits for full-time employees.
• 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.

What This Job Offers

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