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 provides individualized assistance with community participation, personal goals, daily living activities, health and well-being, safety, meals, and household responsibilities. DSPs communicate and collaborate with coworkers and supervisors while maintaining professional conduct and confidentiality. Overnight duties include remaining awake and alert, completing checklist and household tasks, conducting scheduled checks, providing assistance, and supporting morning routines when applicable. The position is part-time and based in community residential homes, day programs, and other community settings. Frequent travel throughout the Metro Atlanta area 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 ability to meet company driving standards, if applicable.
Ability to perform frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, and lifting.
Ability to assist individuals with mobility needs, including transfers in and out of wheelchairs, beds, and vehicles using proper 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 quickly and effectively to emergencies, including fire drills, medical incidents, or behavioral interventions.
Visual and auditory acuity sufficient to monitor safety and observe changes in behavior or health.
Ability to safely operate a motor vehicle if assigned to transport individuals.
Ability to remain awake and alert throughout overnight shifts.
Ability to travel frequently throughout the Metro Atlanta area.

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, considering 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 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 coordinating visits and special-event participation.
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 while supporting individuals’ personal choices.
Safely transport individuals in accordance with company and regulatory 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 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 use emergency equipment as trained.
Assist with meal planning, grocery shopping, food preparation, and cleanup; prepare meals according to menus, nutrition guidelines, and dietary needs.
Encourage family-style meals and positive mealtime conversation and follow food safety and labeling procedures.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe home; complete cleaning checklists and laundry duties.
Keep company vehicles clean, fueled, and properly documented.
Seek guidance from supervisors or coordinators when unsure about procedures or responsibilities.
Communicate respectfully with coworkers and collaborate to provide consistent, quality care.
Demonstrate flexibility and cooperation during emergencies or unexpected situations.
Maintain confidentiality and avoid gossip or sharing sensitive information.
Arrive punctually and prepared, remain on duty until properly relieved, and follow attendance and scheduling policies.
During overnight shifts, remain awake and alert, follow the Overnight Shift Checklist, check on individuals at designated times, provide assistance, support morning routines when applicable, contact supervisors with health-related concerns, and complete assigned household duties before shift end.