DSP(SPANISH AND ENGLISH SPEAKING)

Kahak Health • Alexandria, VA

5d

About The Position

The DSP (Direct Support Professional) provides support to individuals with personal care and daily living, community participation, health and safety, documentation and communication, and behavioral support. The role assists individuals with hygiene, mobility, meals, housekeeping, and daily routines, while promoting independence and providing appropriate supervision. It also includes supporting community activities and skill-building, monitoring health and safety, following individual plans and agency procedures, documenting services, communicating with relevant parties, and implementing behavior support strategies.

The position requires bilingual Spanish and English communication, a high school diploma or GED, a valid driver’s license and reliable transportation, and successful completion of background, driving-record, and drug checks. The DSP must be able to lift, transfer, or assist individuals up to 50 pounds, with or without accommodations, and demonstrate strong communication, teamwork, compassion, patience, dependability, and professionalism.

Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Must speak both Spanish and English.
• High school diploma or GED required.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
• Ability to pass a background check, driving record check, and drug screening.
• Ability to lift, transfer, or assist individuals up to 50 lbs, with or without accommodations.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Compassion, patience, and dependability.
• Ability to follow care plans and agency policies.
• Ability to remain calm in stressful situations.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Professionalism and respect for individuals’ dignity and rights.

Nice To Haves

• Previous experience working with individuals with IDD, autism, mental health needs, or elderly populations.
• CPR/First Aid certification, or willingness to obtain it.
• Medication Aide certification, preferred if applicable.
• Experience with behavior plans and person-centered services.

Responsibilities

• Assist individuals with personal hygiene, bathing, grooming, dressing, and toileting as needed.
• Support mobility, transfers, and safe ambulation.
• Assist with meals, feeding, and following dietary guidelines.
• Assist with laundry, cleaning, and organizing living spaces.
• Support daily routines and structured schedules.
• Help individuals participate in community outings and activities.
• Provide transportation to appointments, shopping, recreational events, and social activities.
• Support skill-building in money management, communication, and social skills.
• Promote independence while ensuring safety and supervision.
• Monitor changes in behavior, mood, physical condition, and overall health.
• Follow individual safety plans and risk management protocols.
• Provide medication reminders or administer medication if trained and authorized.
• Respond appropriately to emergencies and follow agency procedures.
• Maintain a safe environment and report hazards promptly.
• Complete daily progress notes, shift summaries, and other required documentation accurately and on time.
• Promptly report incidents, injuries, or unusual events to supervisors.
• Communicate professionally with families, guardians, supervisors, and healthcare providers.
• Maintain confidentiality and follow HIPAA guidelines.
• Implement behavior support plans as trained.
• Use positive reinforcement strategies to encourage appropriate behavior.
• Assist with de-escalation and maintain safety during challenging behaviors.
• Provide supervision to prevent elopement, self-harm, or unsafe actions.

What This Job Offers

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