DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL

Jay Nolan Community Services•Tehachapi, CA

12h•$20 - $23

About The Position

As a Direct Support Professional (DSP) at Jay Nolan Community Services (JNCS), you provide one-to-one support to people with autism and other developmental disabilities, helping them live with dignity, independence, and choice. The role focuses on empowering individuals to build relationships, live safely in their own homes, and pursue personal, educational, and career goals. DSPs encourage people to do things for themselves rather than doing tasks for them. The position supports individuals in their homes and communities, including people with behavioral, physical, or communication challenges. A typical workday may include accompanying clients to activities, helping with household chores, errands, or medical appointments, supporting schedules and planning, taking walks, providing companionship, and helping clients connect with friends and loved ones. Wheelchair transfers and personal hygiene assistance may be required if applicable. JNCS is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides individualized support to children, teens, and adults with autism and other developmental disabilities so they may live, work, and thrive in their own homes and communities. The organization describes its workplace as inclusive, supportive, and community-oriented and is an equal opportunity employer.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
Valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and current auto insurance, on a case-by-case basis.

Nice To Haves

Personal or professional experience working with individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities is preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

Provide one-to-one direct support to people with autism and intellectual and/or developmental disabilities to help them achieve their highest possible level of independence.
Act as a mentor and role model for socially acceptable and culturally valued ways to interact and support one another.
Support individuals with behavioral, physical, communication, and other challenges in their homes and communities.
Implement the individual's Support Plan (ISP) as developed.
Help individuals maintain personal safety and well-being.
Support individuals in establishing daily or weekly activity schedules to maximize independence.
Stay current with required training and certifications.
Participate hands-on in activities.
Accompany clients to activities such as hobby groups, classes, or the gym.
Support clients with household chores, errands, and medical appointments.
Help clients plan and stay on schedule.
Provide companionship and emotional support.
Help clients connect with friends and loved ones, virtually or in person.
Assist with wheelchair transfers and personal hygiene when applicable.