Description

Job Summary:
The Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides care and support to individuals with developmental disabilities or related conditions. This role focuses on advocating for and empowering individuals to live full, meaningful lives in their communities. The DSP assists with daily living tasks, promotes independence, and ensures individuals are treated with dignity and respect. The most essential qualities for this position are empathy, connection, and the ability to support people of all abilities.

Essential Responsibilities and Duties:

People Supported:

• Display commitment to ABLE, Inc.’s vision, mission, core values, and core virtues.
• Advocate for individuals by evaluating program effectiveness and providing feedback to improve their quality of life.
• Assist individuals in all areas of daily life, enhancing participation in their home and community.
• Promote dignity, privacy, and choice in all interactions and supports.
• Recognize individual strengths and interests and advocate accordingly.
• Identify and implement plans of protection based on vulnerabilities and specific needs.
• Teach and support skills for daily living with a focus on increasing independence and self-motivation.
• Understand and follow each individual’s personal and medical history, plans, and documentation.
• Assist with financial supports in alignment with individual resources and needs.
• Accompany individuals to appointments and provide necessary follow-up and documentation.
• Assist with hygiene needs as defined in individual plans (grooming, feeding, ambulation, toileting, etc.).
• Ensure individuals have appropriate, clean, and preferred clothing and personal items.
• Support and encourage self-help and personal growth.
• Implement assigned programs and document outcomes.
• Carry out responsibilities as a Trained Medication Assistant (TMA), including administering medication, monitoring effects, and reporting errors.
• Use respectful and least-restrictive behavior intervention techniques.
• Communicate in ways that match each person’s preferences and abilities.
• Complete home management duties including housekeeping, laundry, and meal preparation.
• Communicate with coworkers, supervisors, families, and guardians in a professional manner.
• Provide feedback and input on program goals and implementation.
• Model professional, person-centered approaches and advocacy skills.
• Complete required documentation in a timely and accurate manner.
• Follow all policies and procedures outlined in the ABLE Employee Handbook and AWAIR Plan.
• Respond to emergencies and use safety procedures effectively.
• Support and mentor new team members as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Training:

• Actively participate in all agency-provided training sessions.
• Attend and contribute to team, house, and agency-wide staff meetings.
• Maintain current certifications in CPR, First Aid, Trained Medication Administration (TMA), and Person in Action (PIA).
• Comply with all ongoing learning and development expectations.

Requirements

Qualifications and Skills:

Required:

• Experience working collaboratively in a team-based environment.
• Sensitivity and active listening skills in support of individuals with developmental disabilities.
• Respectful, ethical, and confidential conduct with all individuals.
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail.
• Basic computer and math proficiency.
• Valid driver’s license with a safe driving record.

Preferred:

• Prior experience in direct care or human services roles, particularly with individuals with disabilities.

Personal Characteristics:

• Dependable and punctual; flexible with scheduling and locations to meet service needs.
• Demonstrates empathy and a strong desire to serve others.
• Respects the cultural and religious practices of people supported.
• Maintains professionalism and a positive demeanor with coworkers, supervisors, and individuals.
• Strong communicator and active listener.
• Upholds a positive and consistent work ethic.
• Dresses appropriately for daily job duties and interactions.
• Balances team collaboration with independent responsibility.
• Addresses problems constructively and maintains professionalism under pressure.

Work Environment:

Work is performed primarily in a temperature-controlled home or residential setting, with occasional local travel to support community integration and appointments.

Travel:

Local travel is required.

Physical Requirements:

The physical demands of the job are outlined in the attached Essential Function Document and are representative of those needed to perform the essential duties of the role. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.

Direct Reports:

None.

Pre-Hire Requirements:

• Drug Screen
• Background Check
• Reference Check

Disclaimer Clause:

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work required for this role. They are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, or skills required. ABLE, Inc. reserves the right to revise this job description and make changes to job duties or work schedules as needed.

Summary