Direct Support Professional (Residential)

Job Overview

Agape Human Services seeks compassionate, reliable Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to provide person‑centered support to individuals with intellectual disabilities and/or autism in home and community settings. DSPs promote health, safety, dignity, rights, and meaningful community integration in alignment with the Individual Support Plan (ISP) and ODP regulations.

Minimum Qualifications / Job Requirements

• Minimum of a high school diploma is required.
• Experience supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities, autism, and/or co‑occurring mental health needs is required for employment.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Valid driver’s license, reliable personal vehicle, and ability to provide transportation as assigned.
• Must have an insurable driving record, current car insurance, vehicle inspection, and car registration. Required to keep all documents current at all times to maintain employment with Agape Human Services for the Direct Support Professional role, as this position requires transporting individuals into the community.
• Ability to utilize email and common computer programs; able to use Electronic Visit Verification (EVV) software such as Therap to enter and maintain progress notes.
• Ability to read and comprehend written reports/regulations and document clearly and professionally.
• Ability to perform basic mathematical calculations.
• Ability to communicate effectively in daily Progress Notes.
• Must successfully pass all pre‑employment screenings (e.g., criminal background checks including FBI when required, employment verification).
• Must successfully pass Medicaid fraud exclusion checks prior to hire and maintain eligibility throughout employment with Agape Human Services.
• Must successfully pass a physical examination and Mantoux (TB) or QuantiFERON‑TB Gold test prior to hire under ODP 6400.151 requirements.
• Must maintain a current physical examination every two (2) years thereafter, per ODP 6400.151, with no lapse to maintain employment with Agape Human Services.
• Must complete CPR and First Aid training within six (6) months of hire and maintain current certification thereafter to maintain employment with Agape Human Services.
• Must meet ODP 6400.51 Orientation and 6400.52 Annual Training requirements to maintain employment with Agape Human Services.
• Required to complete ODP 6100.227 Progress Notes at the end of each shift in accordance with regulatory and agency standards.
• Must accurately report all worked time for payroll purposes in accordance with agency policy and Electronic Visit Verification (EVV) requirements.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

• Assist persons supported with activities of daily living (ADLs) including meal preparation, personal care, and household tasks.
• Administer medications if currently certified per ODP 6400.169 and agency policy; comply with medication administration standards and documentation requirements.
• Manage significant social and behavioral challenges using supportive, least‑restrictive, and positive approaches.
• Provide transportation in the DSP’s personal vehicle for medical appointments, therapy sessions, employment/volunteering, and community outings; follow all safety and documentation procedures.
• Document and account accurately for all individual‑related financial transactions, when assigned.
• Implement and document all supports as specified in the ISP; record daily progress notes in Therap (EVV) in a timely and professional manner.
• Participate in development and ongoing review of the ISP; provide relevant observations and data to the team.
• Ensure each person’s health, safety, dignity, rights, and person‑centered outcomes at all times.
• Teach and support skills in behavioral regulation, social interaction, money management, housekeeping, hygiene, and other areas identified in the ISP.
• Utilize local community resources to promote integration, independence, and natural supports in the least restrictive setting.
• Follow agency policies and procedures for emergency response (e.g., medical emergencies) and incident management.
• Collaborate with families, natural supports, Federal/State/County partners, and other providers; attend meetings and communicate professionally.
• Work independently with minimal on‑site supervision across residential, day program, and community settings.

Regulatory & Documentation Compliance

• Adhere to Department of Human Services (DHS)/Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) regulatory requirements (e.g., 6400, 6100, 2380 as applicable).
• Complete and submit all documentation (progress notes, time sheets, medication records) accurately and on time.
• Maintain current required credentials and trainings (e.g., Medication Administration certification if administering medications).
• Uphold the Principles of Everyday Lives and Positive Approaches, supporting people in the least restrictive manner.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience with Therap or similar EVV/EHR systems.
• Certified in ODP Medication Administration (or willing to obtain certification per agency timelines).
• CPR/First Aid certification (or willing to obtain prior to independent assignment).

Equal Opportunity Statement

Agape Human Services provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Pay: Up to $16.50 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Mileage reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Required)

Experience:

• Supporting Individual with IDD (ODP Residential): 2 years (Required)

License/Certification:

• Current Driver's License (Required)
• PA Medication Administration Certification (Required)

Shift availability:

• Night Shift (Required)
• Overnight Shift (Preferred)
• Day Shift (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $17