Direct Support Professional

InCommunity•, GA

23d•$16 - $17•Onsite

About The Position

InCommunity seeks a Direct Support Professional (DSP) to support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in living safe, healthy, and joyful lives in their communities. The DSP is expected to model and promote the organization’s mission and values, including integrity, service, respect, and dignity. The role provides person-centered support in residential homes, day programs, and community settings, including assistance with daily living, health and well-being, safety, meals, household responsibilities, transportation, and overnight routines. The position has no supervisory duties and requires frequent travel throughout the Metro Atlanta area.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
At least six months of experience in developmental disabilities, mental health, or aging services preferred; personal or volunteer experience supporting individuals with disabilities may be considered.
Valid driver’s license and compliance with company driving standards, if applicable.
Ability to perform frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, and lifting.
Ability to assist individuals with mobility needs, including transfers using proper lifting techniques or mechanical lifts.
Ability to lift or move items or individuals weighing up to 25 pounds, occasionally more with team assistance or mechanical support.
Ability to perform household tasks such as cleaning, laundry, meal preparation, and light maintenance.
Ability to respond quickly and effectively to emergencies, including fire drills, medical incidents, or behavioral interventions.
Visual and auditory acuity sufficient to support safety and observe changes in behavior or health.
Ability to safely operate a motor vehicle if assigned to transport individuals.
Frequent travel throughout the Metro Atlanta area is required.

Nice To Haves

High school diploma or equivalent.
At least six months of experience in developmental disabilities, mental health, or aging services.
Personal or volunteer experience supporting individuals with disabilities.

Responsibilities

Interact respectfully with individuals and recognize verbal and nonverbal communication.
Encourage and assist individuals in home and community activities that reflect their interests and choices.
Support individuals in identifying and pursuing goals in their Individual Support Plans (ISPs).
Teach and assist with activities of daily living, including cooking, cleaning, and personal hygiene.
Promote relationships with families and friends, including helping coordinate visits and special events.
Respect individuals’ and families’ religious or spiritual practices and choices.
Model appropriate behavior and communication and maintain professionalism, self-control, and a respectful tone.
Maintain a safe and comfortable home environment while supporting individuals’ personal choices.
Transport individuals safely in accordance with company and regulatory procedures.
Read and follow ISPs, medical protocols, and communication logs.
Monitor and accurately document daily activities, health concerns, and behavioral changes.
Assist with hygiene, grooming, and dressing in accordance with individual needs and preferences.
Observe for changes in health and promptly report concerns to supervisors or nursing staff.
Follow medical instructions, medication guidelines, and treatment plans.
Accompany individuals to medical appointments and support communication with healthcare providers.
Provide physical assistance as needed, including safe use of mechanical lifts and other equipment.
Follow safety and emergency procedures, including evacuation drills; maintain clear walkways and exits and use emergency equipment as trained.
Assist with meal planning, grocery shopping, food preparation, and cleanup; prepare meals according to menus, nutrition guidelines, and individual dietary needs.
Encourage family-style meals and positive mealtime conversation and follow food safety and labeling procedures.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe home; complete cleaning checklists and laundry duties.
Keep company vehicles clean, fueled, and properly documented.
Seek guidance from supervisors or coordinators when unsure about procedures or responsibilities.
Communicate respectfully and effectively with coworkers and collaborate to provide consistent, quality care.
Demonstrate flexibility during emergencies or unexpected situations and maintain confidentiality.
Arrive punctually and prepared, remain on duty until properly relieved, and follow attendance and scheduling policies.
For overnight shifts, remain awake and alert; follow the Overnight Shift Checklist; check on individuals at designated times; assist with morning routines when applicable; follow health protocols; contact supervisors about concerns; and complete assigned household duties before shift end.