Direct Support Professional

InCommunity•Roswell, GA

36d•$12 - $13•Onsite

About The Position

InCommunity’s Direct Support Professional (DSP) supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live safe, healthy, and joyful lives in their communities. Employees are expected to model the organization’s mission and values, including integrity, service, and respect for each individual’s dignity. The role supports people in residential homes, day programs, and community settings, helping them pursue personal goals, participate in activities of their choice, and maintain their health, safety, and well-being. The DSP assists with daily living activities, personal care, meals, household upkeep, transportation, appointments, and community participation. The position requires respectful communication, accurate documentation, confidentiality, teamwork, and adherence to individual support plans, medical instructions, and safety procedures. Schedules may include evenings, weekends, holidays, and overnight shifts depending on the needs of the individuals supported. Frequent travel throughout Metro Atlanta is required.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
At least six months of experience in developmental disabilities, mental health, or aging services preferred.
Personal or volunteer experience supporting individuals with disabilities may be considered.
Valid driver’s license and compliance with company driving standards, if applicable.
Ability to perform frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, and lifting.
Ability to assist individuals with mobility needs, including transfers to and from wheelchairs, beds, and vehicles using proper lifting techniques or mechanical lifts.
Ability to lift or move items or individuals weighing up to 25 pounds, and occasionally more with team assistance or mechanical support.
Ability to perform household tasks such as cleaning, laundry, meal preparation, and light maintenance.
Ability to respond quickly and effectively to emergencies, including fire drills, medical incidents, and behavioral interventions.
Visual and auditory acuity to monitor individuals’ safety and observe changes in behavior or health.
Ability to safely operate a motor vehicle if assigned to transport individuals.
Ability to work in settings involving contact with individuals who may display challenging behaviors and respond calmly, respectfully, and professionally.
Ability to work schedules that may include evenings, weekends, holidays, and overnight shifts, based on the needs of the individuals supported.

Nice To Haves

Personal or volunteer experience supporting individuals with disabilities may be considered.

Responsibilities

Interact respectfully with individuals and attend to verbal and nonverbal communication.
Encourage and assist individuals to participate in home and community activities that reflect their interests and choices.
Support individuals in identifying and working toward goals in their Individual Support Plans (ISPs).
Teach and assist with activities of daily living, including cooking, cleaning, and personal hygiene.
Promote positive relationships with individuals’ families and friends, including helping coordinate visits and special-event participation.
Respect individuals’ and families’ religious or spiritual practices and choices.
Model appropriate behavior and communication while maintaining professionalism, self-control, and a respectful tone.
Maintain a safe and comfortable home environment and support individuals’ personal choices.
Safely transport individuals according to company and regulatory safety procedures.
Read and follow ISPs, medical protocols, and communication logs.
Monitor and accurately document daily activities, health concerns, and behavioral changes.
Support hygiene, grooming, and dressing according to each individual’s needs and preferences.
Observe changes in health status and promptly report concerns to supervisors or nursing staff.
Follow medical instructions, medication guidelines, and treatment plans as directed.
Accompany individuals to medical appointments and support communication with healthcare providers.
Provide physical assistance as needed, including safely using mechanical lifts or other equipment.
Follow safety and emergency procedures, including evacuation drills; maintain clear walkways and exits and remove snow or debris when necessary.
Know how to use emergency equipment such as fire extinguishers and alarms, and use adaptive and medical equipment as trained.
Assist with meal planning, grocery shopping, food preparation, and cleanup.
Prepare meals according to menus, nutrition guidelines, and individual dietary needs; encourage family-style meals and positive conversation.
Follow food safety and labeling procedures.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe home; complete cleaning checklists and laundry duties.
Keep company vehicles clean and fueled and maintain required vehicle documentation.
Seek guidance from supervisors or coordinators when unsure about procedures or responsibilities.
Communicate respectfully and effectively with coworkers, collaborate to provide consistent care, and cooperate during emergencies or unexpected situations.
Maintain confidentiality and do not share sensitive information or engage in gossip.
Arrive punctually and prepared, remain on duty until properly relieved, and follow attendance and scheduling policies.
For overnight shifts, remain awake and alert, follow the Overnight Shift Checklist, check on individuals at designated times, assist with morning routines when applicable, follow health protocols, contact supervisors about concerns, and complete assigned household duties.
Travel frequently throughout the Metro Atlanta area.
Safely operate a motor vehicle when assigned to transport individuals.