Direct Support Professional

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Job Title: Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Department: Residential and Community Services

Reports To: Program Supervisor

Location: Amherst, Ohio 44001

Employment Type: Full-Time / Night Shift / 6p-9a / Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays

Position Summary

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides direct care, supervision, and support to individuals with developmental disabilities, enabling them to live meaningful, self-directed lives in their homes and communities. DSPs assist individuals in achieving personal goals, developing independence, maintaining health and safety, and participating in community activities while preserving dignity, rights, and personal choice.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Provide person-centered supports based on Individual Service Plans (ISPs).
• Assist individuals with activities of daily living (ADLs), including:
• Bathing and personal hygiene
• Dressing and grooming
• Toileting and continence care
• Meal preparation and feeding assistance
• Administer medications and complete medication documentation as authorized and trained.
• Support individuals in community integration activities, appointments, employment, volunteer opportunities, and recreational events.
• Promote independence by teaching daily living, social, and communication skills.
• Ensure the health, safety, welfare, and rights of individuals served.
• Complete accurate and timely documentation, including daily notes, incident reports, medication records, and other required records.
• Implement behavior support strategies and crisis intervention techniques as trained.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and healthy home environment.
• Transport individuals using agency vehicles or personal vehicles, as required.
• Report incidents, concerns, suspected abuse, neglect, exploitation, or unusual events according to agency and Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities (DODD) requirements.
• Attend mandatory training sessions and staff meetings.
• Collaborate with families, guardians, team members, medical professionals, and other service providers.

Qualifications

Required

• High school diploma or GED.
• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Valid Ohio driver's license with acceptable driving record.
• Ability to pass background checks as required by Ohio law and DODD regulations.
• Ability to complete required DODD and agency training.
• Basic computer and documentation skills.

Preferred

• Previous experience supporting individuals with developmental disabilities.
• CPR/First Aid certification.
• Medication Administration Certification.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Ability to work effectively with individuals with varying support needs.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries.
• Demonstrated patience, empathy, and respect for individual choice.
• Ability to handle emergencies calmly and appropriately.
• Commitment to person-centered practices and inclusion.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, lift, and transfer individuals as needed.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds independently or more with assistance.
• Ability to respond quickly in emergency situations.
• Ability to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and flexible schedules as needed.