Direct Support Professional

RHA Health Services • Hendersonville, NC

19d

About The Position

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides personalized support to people with disabilities, helping them engage meaningfully in their communities and achieve personal goals. The role includes assisting individuals in identifying and expressing their needs, implementing services aligned with person-centered plans, and fostering independence and self-advocacy. The DSP learns about each individual’s history, social and family networks, and aspirations, and provides support with compassion and respect. The position works under supervision and follows established guidelines to ensure high-quality care and advocacy. This is a regular, full-time position with first-, second-, and third-shift schedules, paying $18.50 per hour, with a $2,000 sign-on bonus.

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.
• Must regularly lift and carry up to 20 pounds and occasionally pull at least 40 pounds.
• Must be able to squat, kneel, crawl, crouch, climb, and stoop as part of regular 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 CPR proficiency from floor level, including working on hands and knees, bending, standing, and lifting.
• Vision requirements include close, distance, and peripheral vision; must be able to talk and hear.
• For Deaf and Hard of Hearing Programs only, employees must be fluent in American Sign Language (ASL); the requirement to talk and hear does not apply.
• Pre-employment screening includes criminal background checks, name checks in the OIG exclusions database, Child Abuse Registry, and Offenders Against Individuals with Developmental Disabilities registry, drug testing, education verification, and other credentialing based on position requirements.
• Proof of employment history or references may be required.
• For positions requiring transportation of individuals, proof of driver's license, driver's insurance, and vehicle is required if applicable.

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 individuals in building relationships and social connections within the community.
• Support informed decision-making about living arrangements, employment, and social activities.
• Assist with hygiene, bathing, dressing, laundry, cleaning, decorating, and other personal care or household tasks.
• Maintain accurate documentation of services and support 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 by 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.
• Health insurance and other insurance benefits 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.
• $2,000 sign-on bonus.

What This Job Offers

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