Direct Support Professional

InCommunity•South Fulton, GA

20d•$12 - $14•Onsite

About The Position

InCommunity’s Direct Support Professionals support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live safe, healthy, and joyful lives in their communities. The role models and promotes the organization’s mission and values, including integrity, service, and respect for each individual’s dignity. Work is primarily performed in community residential homes, day programs, and other community settings, with frequent travel throughout the Metro Atlanta area. The position includes regular interaction with individuals who may display challenging behaviors and requires calm, respectful, professional responses. Schedules may include evenings, weekends, holidays, or overnight shifts based on the needs of the individuals supported. The DSP supports individuals’ engagement, inclusion, health, safety, daily living, personal goals, relationships, and choices. Duties include assisting with activities of daily living; monitoring and documenting health and behavioral changes; following individual support plans, medical protocols, and treatment directions; assisting with meals and household tasks; maintaining homes and vehicles; and communicating and collaborating with coworkers and supervisors. The role may involve transporting individuals, accompanying them to appointments, and providing mobility assistance, including the use of mechanical lifts or other equipment after training. The work involves frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, and lifting. DSPs must be able to assist with transfers and may need to lift or move items or individuals weighing up to 25 pounds, occasionally more with assistance or mechanical support. The job also requires performing household tasks, responding to emergencies, and having sufficient visual and auditory acuity to monitor individuals’ safety and well-being. Reasonable accommodations may be made in accordance with the ADA and organizational policy.

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 meeting company driving standards, if applicable.
Ability to perform frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, and lifting; assist with mobility and transfers; and lift or move up to 25 pounds, occasionally more with assistance or mechanical support.
Ability to perform household tasks, respond effectively to emergencies, and safely operate a motor vehicle if assigned to transport individuals.
Visual and auditory acuity sufficient to monitor individuals’ safety, behavior, and health.

Nice To Haves

High school diploma or equivalent.
At least six months of experience in developmental disabilities, mental health, or aging services.
Personal or volunteer experience supporting individuals with disabilities.

Responsibilities

Interact respectfully with individuals, recognizing verbal and nonverbal communication.
Encourage and assist individuals to participate in home and community activities based on their interests and choices.
Support individuals in identifying and pursuing personal goals in their Individual Support Plans (ISPs).
Teach and assist with activities of daily living, including cooking, cleaning, and personal hygiene.
Promote relationships with individuals’ families and friends, including helping coordinate visits and special events.
Respect individuals’ and families’ religious or spiritual practices and choices.
Model appropriate behavior and communication, maintaining professionalism and a respectful tone.
Maintain a safe and comfortable home environment and support individuals’ personal choices.
Transport individuals safely in accordance with company and regulatory procedures, when assigned.
Read and follow ISPs, medical protocols, and communication logs.
Monitor and accurately document daily activities, health concerns, and behavioral changes.
Assist with 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 properly 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 mealtime 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 verbally and in writing, and collaborate to provide consistent care.
Demonstrate flexibility and cooperation during emergencies or unexpected situations.
Maintain confidentiality and avoid gossip or sharing sensitive information.
Be punctual, remain on duty until properly relieved, and follow attendance and scheduling policies.
For overnight shifts, remain awake and alert; complete checklist, safety, cleaning, documentation, and household duties; check on individuals at designated times; support morning routines when applicable; and follow health protocols and contact supervisors about concerns.