Direct Support Professional / Ridgecrest

RHA Health Services • Ridgecrest, NC

19d

About The Position

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides personalized support to individuals with disabilities, helping them participate meaningfully in their communities and achieve personal goals. The role includes helping individuals identify and express their needs, carrying out services aligned with their person-centered plans, and fostering independence and self-advocacy. The DSP works to understand each individual’s history, social and family networks, and aspirations, and provides support with compassion and respect. The position operates under supervision and follows established guidelines to ensure high-quality care and advocacy.

The role supports people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and people facing mental health and substance use challenges. It includes personal care, independent living support, transportation, community participation, advocacy, documentation, and assistance with medication administration in accordance with state laws and regulations. The position has no supervisory responsibilities.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Must meet all pre-employment screening requirements.
• Compassionate, patient, and dedicated to person-centered support.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to foster independence while providing necessary support.
• Knowledge of disability rights, self-advocacy, and community integration principles.
• Ability to maintain accurate records and follow regulatory guidelines.
• For Deaf and Hard of Hearing Programs only, employees must be fluent in American Sign Language (ASL).
• Must be able to regularly lift and carry up to 20 lbs. and occasionally pull at least 40 lbs.
• Must be able to squat, kneel, crawl, crouch, climb, and stoop as part of regular job duties.
• Must be able to use hands and fingers to handle or operate objects, tools, or controls.
• Must be able to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Must demonstrate CPR proficiency from floor level, requiring work on hands and knees, bending, standing, and lifting.
• Vision requirements include close, distance, and peripheral vision.
• Must be able to talk and hear, except in Deaf and Hard of Hearing Programs.

Responsibilities

• Advocate for individuals’ human, legal, and civil rights.
• Promote health and safety through wellness initiatives and accident prevention.
• Encourage self-advocacy and empower individuals to make their own choices.
• Accompany individuals to work, recreational activities, and social events to facilitate community engagement.
• Teach and support independent living skills, including household management and personal care.
• Provide transportation for appointments, errands, and community activities.
• Support individuals in building relationships and social connections within the community.
• Support informed decisions about living arrangements, employment, and social activities.
• Assist with personal care tasks such as hygiene, bathing, dressing, laundry, cleaning, and decorating.
• Maintain accurate documentation of services and support provided.
• Understand and address challenges faced by individuals with disabilities using effective advocacy strategies.
• Connect individuals with community resources for career development, education, and volunteer opportunities.
• Encourage effective communication while adapting to individual needs and preferences.
• Assist with medication administration in accordance with state laws and regulations.
• Maintain confidentiality and uphold ethical standards.

Benefits

• Payactiv early access to wages already earned before payday.
• Employee perks and discount program.
• Paid time off for full-time employees.
• Health insurance for full-time employees.
• 401(k) retirement savings program.
• Physical, emotional, and financial wellbeing programs.
• Chronic disease management programs for hypertension and diabetes for qualifying employees.
• Free CPR, first aid, and job-specific training opportunities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED