Direct Support Professional

RHA Health Services, LLC • Montgomery, PA

13d

About The Position

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides personalized support to individuals with disabilities, helping them engage meaningfully in their communities and achieve personal goals. The DSP assists individuals in identifying and expressing their needs, implements services aligned with person-centered plans, and fosters independence and self-advocacy. The role calls for understanding each individual’s history, social and family networks, and aspirations, and providing support with compassion and respect. The position operates under supervision and follows established guidelines to ensure high-quality care and advocacy.

The role involves supporting health, safety, community participation, independent living, personal care, transportation, communication, relationships, informed decision-making, and medication administration in accordance with applicable state laws and regulations. It also requires maintaining accurate service documentation and safeguarding confidentiality and ethical standards. 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, including criminal background screening, registry checks, drug testing, education verification, and other credentialing based on position 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.
• Must 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 stand and walk for extended periods.
• Must demonstrate proficiency in CPR 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 for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Programs, where this requirement does not apply.
• For Deaf and Hard of Hearing Programs only, employees must be fluent in American Sign Language (ASL).
• For positions requiring driving, proof of driver’s license, driver’s insurance, and vehicle is required if needed to provide transportation for individuals.

Responsibilities

• Advocate for individuals’ human, legal, and civil rights.
• Promote health and safety by supporting 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 relationship-building and social connections within the community.
• Support informed decision-making about living arrangements, employment, and social activities.
• Assist with hygiene, bathing, dressing, and household chores such as laundry, cleaning, and decorating.
• Maintain accurate documentation of services provided.
• Understand challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and use effective advocacy strategies.
• Connect individuals with community resources for career development, education, and volunteer opportunities.
• Encourage effective communication, adapting to individual needs and preferences.
• Assist with medication administration in accordance with state laws and regulations.
• Maintain confidentiality and uphold ethical standards in all aspects of care.

Benefits

• Payactiv early access to earned wages before payday.
• Employee perks and discount program.
• Paid Time Off for full-time employees only.
• Health/Insurance for full-time employees only.
• 401(k) retirement savings program.
• Wellbeing Programs: Physical, Emotional and Financial.
• 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