DSP (Direct Support Professional)

Kahak Health•New Castle, VA

14d

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 assists individuals in achieving independence, improving daily living skills, participating in community activities, and maintaining health and safety in their home and community. The position requires compassion, professionalism, and a strong commitment to person-centered support. The role is part-time in New Castle, Virginia, with a schedule of Monday 3:30 PM–8:00 PM, Wednesday 3:00 PM–8:30 PM, and Saturday 9:00 AM–5:00 PM. Pay is $20 per hour.

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 up to 50 lbs, 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 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 ensuring safety and supervision.
Monitor changes in behavior, mood, physical condition, or overall health.
Follow individual safety plans and risk management protocols.
Provide medication reminders or administer medication when trained and authorized.
Respond appropriately to emergencies and follow agency procedures.
Maintain a safe environment and report hazards immediately.
Complete daily progress notes, shift summaries, and 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 ensure safety during challenging behaviors.
Provide supervision to prevent elopement, self-harm, or unsafe actions.