Direct Support Professional/FT - Thurs to Sat 10p - 8a

RHA Health Services • Jacksonville, 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 their personal goals. The role includes helping individuals identify and express their needs, implementing services aligned with person-centered plans, and fostering independence and self-advocacy. DSPs are expected to understand each person’s history, social and family networks, and aspirations, and to provide compassionate, respectful support. The position operates under supervision and follows established guidelines to ensure high-quality care and advocacy.

The position is regular and full-time, with a Thursday-through-Saturday schedule from 10 p.m. to 8 a.m. Duties include supporting personal care and independent living skills, community participation, transportation, medication administration as permitted by applicable laws, and accurate service documentation. The role has no supervisory responsibilities.

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.
• Regularly lift and carry up to 20 pounds and occasionally pull at least 40 pounds.
• Ability to squat, kneel, crawl, crouch, climb, and stoop as part of regular duties.
• Ability to use hands and fingers to handle or operate objects, tools, or controls.
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to demonstrate CPR proficiency from floor level, including working on hands and knees, bending, standing, and lifting.
• Close, distance, and peripheral vision; ability to talk and hear.
• For Deaf and Hard of Hearing programs only, employees must be fluent in American Sign Language (ASL); the talk-and-hear requirement does not apply.
• Pre-employment screening includes a criminal background check, checks of the OIG exclusions database, Child Abuse Registry, and Offenders Against Individuals with Developmental Disabilities registries, drug testing, education verification, and other credentialing based on position requirements.
• Proof of employment history or references may be required.
• For positions requiring driving, proof of driver's license, driver's insurance, and vehicle may be required if needed to transport 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, and social events to facilitate community engagement.
• 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, including hygiene, bathing, dressing, laundry, cleaning, and decorating.
• Maintain accurate documentation of services and support provided.
• Understand and address challenges faced by individuals with disabilities using effective advocacy strategies.
• Connect individuals with community resources for career development, education, and volunteer opportunities.
• Encourage effective communication, adapting to individuals’ 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 insurance 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
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED