Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Job Description

Department: Residential Services

Reports To: Manager/CEO - Maurice Hawkins

FLSA Status: Exempt

Job Summary: The Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides direct care, supervision, and skill-building support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) living in a group home setting under the Virginia Medicaid Waiver. The DSP helps individuals achieve personal goals, maintain health and safety, and live as independently as possible in accordance with person-centered plans and DBHDS standards.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Provide individualized support and supervision in accordance with each individual’s Individual Service Plan (ISP).

Assist with activities of daily living (ADLs), including bathing, dressing, toileting, eating, and mobility.

Implement and document ISP goals, progress notes, behavioral data, and daily logs in a timely and accurate manner.

Support individuals in meal preparation, household cleaning, laundry, and other homemaking tasks.

Administer medications as trained and approved, and complete Medication Administration Records (MARs) per policy.

Support individuals in attending medical appointments, community outings, employment, and recreational activities.

Maintain a clean, safe, and supportive environment in compliance with DBHDS licensing regulations and health/safety standards.

Promote skill development and independence in areas such as self-care, money management, social interaction, and communication.

Manage challenging behaviors using positive behavior supports and agency-approved interventions (e.g., TOVA techniques).

Report incidents, injuries, illnesses, or unusual occurrences immediately to the supervisor (Maurice Hawkins).

Advocate for individuals' rights, preferences, and needs while promoting dignity and respect at all times.

Follow emergency procedures and remain calm and responsive during crisis situations.

Attend mandatory training and maintain certification in CPR/First Aid, Medication Administration, and behavior intervention strategies.

Communicate effectively with team members, families, medical professionals, and external agencies.

Answer to monthly safety checks.

Qualifications:

High School Diploma or GED required.

At least 18 years of age.

Valid Virginia driver’s license with acceptable driving record (if transporting individuals).

Ability to pass a Criminal Background Check, Drug Screening, and DSS Central Registry Check.

Must be able to complete and maintain certifications as required by Virginia Medicaid Waiver and DBHDS:

CPR/First Aid

Medication Administration

TOVA or other approved behavioral intervention training

Person-Centered Thinking

Human Rights / HIPAA

Physical Requirements:

Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and perform physical interventions if needed.

Must be able to stand, walk, bend, push, pull, and kneel during shift.

Ability to stay alert and awake during overnight or extended shifts.

Skills & Competencies:

Compassionate, patient, and respectful demeanor.

Ability to follow instructions and work independently or as part of a team.

Good written and verbal communication skills.

Time management and problem-solving skills.

Understanding of confidentiality, boundaries, and professional ethics.

Full Time