Direct Support Professional
About The Position
As a Direct Support Professional, you support adults with disabilities to live as independently as possible while honoring their dignity, respect, and choices. The role involves active, hands-on support, teamwork, problem-solving, and meaningful connection. You help individuals pursue personal goals, build skills, and participate in daily life and the community. The position uses a fixed 12-hour shift model with a three-day work week. The listed Back-Half schedule is Thursday through Saturday. Day shifts start between 7 AM and 9 AM and end between 7 PM and 9 PM. Employees work about 12 days per month, with fixed days, locations, and the same people supported. Saturday and Sunday shifts receive premium pay. This is a physically active role involving indoor and outdoor environments. Employees must perform physical tasks safely and professionally, including standing and walking for extended periods, kneeling and rising without assistance, lifting and moving up to 50 pounds, assisting with transfers and positioning, and using personal protective equipment when required.
Requirements
- High school diploma or GED equivalency.
- Must be at least 18 years old.
- Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.
- Successful completion and certification in training provided by the agency within the specified time allotment.
- Clear background check and drug screen upon conditional offer.
- Able to stand, walk, move, and remain active for extended periods.
- Able to kneel on one or both knees and stand back up unassisted.
- Able to transition between standing, kneeling, squatting, and bending.
- Able to push, pull, and lift up to 50 pounds using proper body mechanics.
- Able to assist with transfers and positioning as needed.
- Able to perform repetitive hand, wrist, and arm movements.
- Able to react quickly and safely in dynamic situations.
- Compassionate, patient, and respectful.
- Comfortable following plans, routines, and safety procedures.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Team-oriented while also able to work independently.
- Willing to learn and complete required training.
- Reliable, punctual, and accountable.
Nice To Haves
- Prior experience working with children or adults with disabilities or challenging behaviors.
- May require training or testing to drive an accessible vehicle.
Responsibilities
- Support individuals with daily life while encouraging them to do things independently.
- Follow Individual Service Plans (ISPs) and help individuals achieve personal goals.
- Encourage independence through skill-building and everyday teaching moments.
- Assist with personal care, including meals, hygiene, positioning, and transfers.
- Support community involvement, recreation, work activities, and transportation.
- Provide medication support when trained and authorized.
- Attend medical appointments and communicate changes to the care team.
- Respond calmly and confidently during emergencies.
- Maintain accurate documentation and reports.
- Create a safe, positive, and respectful environment on every shift.
- Use personal protective equipment when required.
- Complete agency-provided training and certification within the specified time allotment.
Benefits
- Premium pay for weekend shifts (Saturday and Sunday).
- Fixed 12-hour shift schedule with three workdays per week and about 12 workdays per month.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Education Level
High school or GED
