Direct Support Professional
Kahak Health•Fairfax, VA
About The Position
The DSP will provide support in the following areas: Personal Care and Daily Living Support, Community Support and Engagement, Health and Safety Monitoring, Documentation and Communication, and Behavioral Support.
Requirements
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- High School Diploma or GED required
- Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation
- Ability to pass a background check, driving record check, and drug screening
- Ability to lift, transfer, or assist individuals up to 50 lbs (with or without accommodations)
- Must have strong communication and teamwork skills
- Compassion, patience, and dependability
- Strong ability to follow care plans and agency policies
- Ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Professionalism and respect for individuals’ dignity and rights
Nice To Haves
- Previous experience working with individuals with IDD, autism, mental health needs, or elderly populations
- CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)
- Medication Aide certification (preferred if applicable)
- Experience with behavior plans and person-centered services
Responsibilities
- Assist individuals with personal hygiene, bathing, grooming, dressing, and toileting as needed
- Support individuals with mobility, transfers, and safe ambulation
- Provide assistance with meals, feeding, and following dietary guidelines
- Assist with housekeeping tasks such as laundry, cleaning, and organizing living spaces
- Support individuals in completing daily routines and maintaining a structured schedule
- Assist individuals with participating in community outings and activities
- Provide transportation to appointments, shopping, recreational events, and social activities
- Support skill-building activities such as money management, communication, and social skills
- Promote independence while ensuring safety and supervision
- Monitor for changes in behavior, mood, physical condition, or overall health
- Follow individual safety plans and risk management protocols
- Provide medication reminders or medication administration (if trained and authorized)
- Respond appropriately to emergencies and follow agency procedures
- Maintain a safe environment and report hazards immediately
- Complete daily progress notes, shift summaries, and required documentation accurately and on time
- Report incidents, injuries, or unusual events to supervisors promptly
- Communicate professionally with families, guardians, supervisors, and healthcare providers
- Maintain confidentiality and follow HIPAA guidelines
- Implement behavior support plans as trained
- Use positive reinforcement strategies to encourage appropriate behavior
- Assist with de-escalation techniques and ensure safety during challenging behaviors
- Provide supervision to prevent elopement, self-harm, or unsafe actions
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What This Job Offers
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
