DSP - CHATHAM

Alpha Omega Consulting Inc.•Chatham, IL

2d•$16 - $19

About The Position

Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) provide person-centered support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in residential and community settings. The role helps individuals live safely, independently, and meaningfully in their homes and communities by building relationships, encouraging independence, and supporting personal goals. DSPs may assist with personal care and activities of daily living, household tasks, meal preparation, daily living and social skills, community participation, transportation, and medication procedures after completing required training and authorization. They follow individual service and behavior support plans, health and safety protocols, and other instructions; monitor and report changes in well-being; respond professionally to unexpected situations; complete required records; and communicate with individuals, families, guardians, coworkers, and other support-team members. The role also requires protecting dignity, privacy, rights, and confidentiality; attending training and meetings; and following company policies and applicable standards. The work is active and hands-on. Depending on the individuals and assignment, DSPs may stand, walk, bend, reach, provide physical assistance, and work independently during portions of a shift while remaining responsible for individuals’ health and safety. Programs operate according to the needs of the people supported. Available schedules may include days, evenings, overnights, weekends, and holidays, with full-time and/or part-time schedules discussed during hiring. Reasonable accommodations may be provided in accordance with applicable law.

Requirements

Be at least 18 years of age.
Have a high school diploma or GED, if required for the position.
Have a valid driver's license and reliable transportation when driving is an assigned responsibility.
Successfully complete required background checks and pre-employment requirements.
Be dependable and able to maintain a consistent work schedule.
Demonstrate strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Be patient, respectful, and able to remain professional in challenging situations.
Be comfortable providing hands-on assistance with personal care and activities of daily living.
Be able to follow individualized plans, established procedures, and supervisor direction.
Be able to complete required documentation accurately and within established timeframes.
Be willing and able to complete required training and maintain required certifications.
Work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
Be able to meet the active, hands-on work expectations of the position, including standing, walking, bending, reaching, and providing physical assistance when required.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience working with individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities is preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

Provide direct, person-centered support in residential and community settings.
Assist with activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and other personal-care needs as required.
Encourage individuals to develop and maintain independence.
Assist with meal planning and preparation, laundry, housekeeping, and maintaining a clean and safe home environment.
Support individuals in working toward personal goals and developing daily living and social skills.
Participate in community activities, recreation, shopping, appointments, work, and other outings.
Provide transportation as assigned and appropriate for the position.
Support medication administration and related procedures after completing required training and authorization.
Follow individualized service plans, behavior support plans, health and safety protocols, and individual-specific instructions.
Observe and report changes in an individual's health, behavior, mood, or overall well-being.
Provide calm, professional support during behavioral, medical, or other unexpected situations.
Complete shift notes, service documentation, medication records, incident reports, and other required documentation accurately and on time.
Communicate professionally with individuals, guardians, families, coworkers, supervisors, nurses, and other support-team members.
Maintain professional boundaries and protect each individual's dignity, privacy, rights, and confidentiality.
Attend required training, meetings, and ongoing professional development.
Follow company policies, safety requirements, and applicable regulatory standards.