Direct Support Professional

InCommunity•, GA

5d•$15 - $17•Onsite

About The Position

InCommunity’s Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live safe, healthy, and joyful lives in their communities. DSPs are expected to model the organization’s values of integrity, service, and respect for each person’s dignity. The role includes supporting individuals’ engagement and inclusion, health and well-being, safety, daily living activities, meal preparation, home and vehicle upkeep, and personal goals outlined in Individual Support Plans (ISPs). The position has no supervisory duties and requires frequent travel throughout the Metro Atlanta area. Work is primarily performed in community residential homes, day programs, and other community settings, with outings that may involve public spaces, transportation, and varying weather. The role includes regular interaction with individuals who may display challenging behaviors and requires calm, respectful, professional responses. Overnight DSPs must remain awake and alert, complete overnight checklist duties, check on individuals at designated times, assist with morning routines when applicable, and finish assigned household duties before the shift ends. Schedules may include evenings, weekends, holidays, and overnight shifts according to the needs of the individuals supported. The position involves frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, and lifting; assisting individuals with mobility and transfers using proper techniques or mechanical lifts; and performing household tasks. Employees may need to lift or move items or individuals weighing up to 25 pounds, occasionally more with team assistance or mechanical support. The role also requires responding effectively to emergencies, using visual and auditory acuity to monitor safety and well-being, and safely operating a motor vehicle if assigned to transport individuals. Reasonable accommodations may be made in accordance with the ADA and organizational policy.

Requirements

A valid driver’s license and ability to meet company driving standards, if applicable.
Ability to safely operate a motor vehicle if assigned to transport individuals.
Ability to assist with mobility needs and transfers using proper lifting techniques or mechanical lifts.
Ability to lift or move items or individuals weighing up to 25 pounds, 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 effectively to emergency situations, including fire drills, medical incidents, or behavioral interventions.
Visual and auditory acuity to help ensure individuals’ safety and observe changes in behavior or health.
Ability to meet the physical demands of frequent standing, walking, bending, and reaching.

Nice To Haves

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.

Responsibilities

Interact respectfully with individuals and account for verbal and nonverbal communication.
Encourage and assist individuals in participating in home and community activities that reflect their interests and choices.
Support individuals in identifying and pursuing personal goals based on 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 coordinating visits and participation in special events.
Respect individuals’ and families’ religious or spiritual practices and choices.
Model appropriate behavior and communication, maintaining professionalism, self-control, and a respectful tone.
Maintain a safe and comfortable home environment and support individuals’ personal choices.
Safely transport individuals in accordance with 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 personal hygiene, grooming, and dressing according to individual 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 safe use of mechanical lifts and 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 individuals’ 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 uncertain about procedures or responsibilities.
Communicate respectfully and effectively with coworkers verbally and in writing, and collaborate to provide consistent, quality care.
Demonstrate flexibility and cooperation during emergencies or unexpected situations.
Maintain confidentiality and refrain from gossip or sharing sensitive information.
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, provide assistance as needed, support morning routines when applicable, contact supervisors about health concerns, and complete assigned household duties before shift end.
Travel frequently throughout the Metro Atlanta area.