Lead Direct Support Professional

THE ARC JACKSONVILLE INC•Jacksonville, FL

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Lead DSP serves as a mentor and resource for Direct Support Professionals at the Achievement & Enrichment (A&E) Center. In addition to supporting participants as needed, this role focuses on leadership responsibilities outside of daily DSP duties. The Lead DSP fosters a welcoming, organized, and engaging environment by guiding new staff, supporting program operations, ensuring quality documentation, and promoting the A&E Center within the community.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent required
Minimum 2 years of experience as a Direct Support Professional or in a related field
Strong interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills
Ability to lead by example and support a team-oriented culture
Must have valid Florida driver's license with good driving record
Be able to pass a DOT physical
Be willing and able to drive agency vehicles
Must be able to pass background and drug screening
Complete a background screening housed and managed by the Agency for Health Care Administration called the Florida Care Provider Background Screening Clearinghouse

Nice To Haves

Some college or training in human services preferred

Responsibilities

Demonstrate positive, respectful, and professional interactions with participants at all times.
Support participants in making informed choices by presenting options, discussing pros and cons, and respecting decisions unless they pose a health or safety risk.
Respond appropriately to medical or behavioral crises to ensure the safety of participants and staff; recognize and correct potential safety hazards.
Complete all required trainings, including those related to behavioral crisis response.
Maintain strong, ongoing communication with the Center Manager, DSPs, Support Coordinators, families, providers, and community partners.
Promote a positive image of the A&E Center and the people it serves through professional, collaborative communication.
Assist with developing communication materials such as calendars and family/group home updates.
Ensure accurate and timely completion of daily documentation, including health and safety notes, progress toward goals, and incident reports.
Assist with reviewing quarterly reports and participant files.
Support DSPs in completing annual reports and ensure timely submission.
Provide constructive feedback to the Center Manager regarding program operations and staff needs.
Welcome and mentor new DSPs, providing orientation to program expectations and culture.
Serve as a point of contact and role model for DSPs, offering guidance, coaching, and support.
Encourage teamwork and foster a positive workplace culture.
Assist staff in developing or adapting creative strategies to best support participants.
Assist with planning, organizing, and leading program-wide events such as holiday parties, family gatherings, and other special activities.
Participate in planning meetings and contribute creative ideas for programming.
Support Club Arc by attending and assisting at least quarterly.
Assist with tours for potential participants and families, presenting the A&E Center’s mission and services.
Represent and promote the A&E Center at community tabling events to build awareness and relationships.
Perform additional tasks and responsibilities as assigned by the Center Manager to support overall program success.