Job Description

Job Description

Job Description

Effective Date: 10/15/2025

Title: Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Department : Program Services

Reports To : Vice President of I/DD Operations

Exempt : N/A

Non-Exempt : Yes

About the Organization:

EmployAbility is an organization driven by a deep commitment to empowering people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). Our mission is simple yet profound. We envision a world without barriers to inclusion, where every individual has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to their community. We achieve this by fostering independence, inclusion, and self-determination through our ongoing commitment to inclusive opportunities, advocacy, and community engagement.

About the Role:

Direct Support Professionals are the foundation of our mission—ensuring that individuals with I/DD receive the support they need to lead fulfilling lives. DSPs play an essential role in providing care, facilitating community integration, and fostering personal growth. By upholding our values, maintaining accountability, and embracing a person-centered approach, DSPs directly contribute to making inclusion a reality.

Key Responsibilities:

Support and Engagement:

1. Facilitate structured activities that promote personal, social, and vocational skill-building that supports participants in gaining independence.
2. Support participants in community inclusion through volunteer opportunities and recreational outings.
3. Assist participants with personal care, hygiene, feeding, and mobility needs while ensuring dignity and respect.

Time Tracking:

1. Ensure participants are accurately clocked in and out daily using an electronic health record system.
2. If assigned driving duties, ensure participants are properly logged upon boarding and departure.

Safety:

1. Maintain a safe environment for participants, follows transportation and emergency protocols, and adheres to all health and safety regulations.

Documentation:

1. Complete progress notes, incident reports, and attendance records within 24 hours of service completion.
2. Assist with daily documentation audits to ensure regulatory compliance.

Communication:

1. Maintain open communication with supervisors, colleagues, and case managers regarding participant progress.

COMPETENCIES

1. Understands and adheres to the organization’s policies, security protocols, and confidentiality guidelines (including HIPAA).
2. Consistently arrives on time, meets deadlines, and follows organizational policies with integrity and accountability.
3. Promotes an inclusive environment that respects and values diversity in participants and staff.
4. Demonstrates the ability to provide individualized, person-centered care that prioritizes participant dignity, choice, and autonomy.
5. Clearly and professionally communicates with participants, colleagues, families, and supervisors both verbally and in writing.

1. Responds effectively to unexpected situations, participant needs, and program changes while maintaining a calm and solution-oriented approach.
2. Manages multiple responsibilities efficiently, including participant care, transportation, and documentation.
3. Proactively manages tasks without constant supervision, anticipating needs and taking independent action.
4. Works well with coworkers, supervisors, and other departments to provide seamless support and participant care.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

1. High school diploma or equivalent.
2. Must have valid driver’s license and current insurance.
3. Must be punctual and reliable.
4. Basic proficiency in using computers and office software (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite, email).

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

1. Prior work experience in a similar professional environment.
2. Prior experience as Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA).

PHYSICAL JOB REQUIREMENTS

1. Must be able to work in various adult day service environments, with frequent interaction with staff and participants.
2. Must be able to lift at least 50 pounds and stand for long periods of time.

1. Must be able to operate EmployAbility owned vehicles to transport participants.

SALARY/BENEFITS

Salary is commensurate with education, qualifications, and work experience. Full time benefits include paid holidays, paid time off, and a comprehensive benefits package.

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