Direct Support Professional (DSP) – Pasadena

AbilityFirst•Pasadena, CA

27d•Onsite

About The Position

AbilityFirst is hiring Direct Support Professionals, called Community Coaches within the organization, for current and upcoming openings at Pasadena-area sites. The role supports people with intellectual and developmental disabilities through person-centered programming focused on individual choice, autonomy, community participation, social connections, and belonging. Staff work directly with participants on daily activities, personal goals, independence, safety, and community engagement. The work is hands-on and active, and may include personal care, swimming activities, community outings, and driving or accompanying participants on public transportation after driver approval. Schedules vary by program and may include weekdays, evenings, and weekends. Openings may be at the Lawrence L. Frank Center or the Fair Oaks/Headquarters and PossAbility Office locations in Pasadena. The listed pay is $20.00 per hour.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Ability to provide physical assistance, including lifting or transferring participants.
Willingness to participate in swimming and community activities to assist participants in pools or in the community.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to work effectively with people of diverse races, ethnicities, and sexual orientations in a multicultural environment.
Ability to work evenings and weekends as needed.
Ability to obtain First Aid/CPR certification.
Successful completion of a LiveScan background check.
Ability to meet stated physical requirements, including prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer, working in office or outdoor environments, and lifting up to 50 pounds at times.
For applicable childcare programs, 12 college units in Early Childhood Education or a related field may be required.
For driver positions, provide a valid driver’s license, proof of insurance, and driving record; offers are contingent on a satisfactory driving record.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent experience.
One to two years of experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities.
Strong understanding of person-centered practices, goal setting, and community integration.
Proficiency with documentation systems such as ProCare, Microsoft Office, and data management programs.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and data management tools.
Valid driver’s license.

Responsibilities

Actively supervise participants throughout the program day, maintaining health, safety, engagement, and designated staffing ratios.
Implement daily activities and lesson plans aligned with each participant’s Person-Centered Plan goals.
Create and facilitate engaging, inclusive group activities.
Collaborate with team members to develop monthly activity calendars for assigned groups.
Complete accurate and timely daily documentation of participant goal progress.
Immediately report and document case notes and significant participant concerns.
Maintain confidentiality and uphold participants’ dignity and rights.
For community care licensed programs, assist with feeding, diapering, toileting, hygiene, and other personal care needs; this may include using a Hoyer lift.
Support participants in swimming activities as needed.
Supervise and support participants during community outings, promoting safety and active engagement.
Help participants access community volunteer opportunities.
Drive agency vehicles or accompany participants on public transportation as needed after approval as an AbilityFirst driver.
Complete required training, including active supervision, behavior support, lifting and transferring, feeding and personal care, and safety protocols.
Participate in ongoing training, coaching, and staff meetings.
Fulfill mandated reporter responsibilities and complete quarterly assigned staff training.
Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned in support of the program and organization.