DSP (Direct Support Professional)

Kahak Health•Salem, VA

13d

About The Position

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides direct care and support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and/or behavioral health needs. The DSP helps individuals build independence, improve daily living skills, participate in community activities, and maintain their health and safety at home and in the community. The role requires compassion, professionalism, and a strong commitment to person-centered support. The schedule is Monday through Friday, 2:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday, 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Pay is $20 per hour. The position is located in Salem, Virginia.

Requirements

Must be at least 18 years of age.
High school diploma or GED required.
Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
Ability to pass a background check, driving record check, and drug screening.
Ability to lift, transfer, or assist individuals weighing up to 50 pounds, with or without accommodations.
Strong communication and teamwork skills.
Compassion, patience, and dependability.
Ability to follow care plans and agency policies.
Ability to remain calm in stressful situations.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Professionalism and respect for individuals’ dignity and rights.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience working with individuals with IDD, autism, mental health needs, or elderly populations.
CPR/First Aid certification, or willingness to obtain it.
Medication Aide certification, preferred if applicable.
Experience with behavior plans and person-centered services.

Responsibilities

Assist individuals with personal hygiene, bathing, grooming, dressing, and toileting as needed.
Support mobility, transfers, and safe ambulation.
Assist with meals and feeding, and follow dietary guidelines.
Help with housekeeping, including laundry, cleaning, and organizing living spaces.
Support daily routines and structured schedules.
Assist individuals with community outings and activities.
Provide transportation to appointments, shopping, recreational events, and social activities.
Support skill-building in money management, communication, and social skills.
Promote independence while maintaining safety and supervision.
Monitor changes in behavior, mood, physical condition, and overall health.
Follow individual safety plans and risk-management protocols.
Provide medication reminders or administer medication when trained and authorized.
Respond to emergencies according to agency procedures.
Maintain a safe environment and promptly report hazards.
Complete daily progress notes, shift summaries, and other required documentation accurately and on time.
Promptly report incidents, injuries, or unusual events to supervisors.
Communicate professionally with families, guardians, supervisors, and healthcare providers.
Maintain confidentiality and follow HIPAA guidelines.
Implement behavior support plans as trained.
Use positive reinforcement to encourage appropriate behavior.
Assist with de-escalation and maintain safety during challenging behaviors.
Provide supervision to prevent elopement, self-harm, or other unsafe actions.