Direct Support Professional

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Location: Philadelphia, PA (19135)
Job Type: Full-time? / Part-time / Flexible Shifts
Schedule: Days, Evenings, Weekends, Overnights (varies by location)
Industry: Health & Human Services | Residential Care | Developmental Disabilities

Position Summary
We are seeking a compassionate, dependable, and team-oriented Direct Support
Professional (DSP) to join our Residential Habilitation program. In this essential role, you will provide personalized support and assistance to individuals with intellectual, developmental, physical, or behavioral challenges living in a residential setting. The Residential DSP helps residents develop daily living skills, maintain a healthy and safe home environment, and achieve greater independence and inclusion within their communities.
You will play a key role in implementing individualized service plans, supporting health and wellness, and promoting dignity, choice, and personal growth.

Key Responsibilities

Direct Care Daily Living Support

• Provide respectful, hands-on assistance with personal care activities such as bathing, grooming, dressing, toileting, and mobility.*
• Support individuals with household tasks including cooking, cleaning, laundry, and general upkeep of the home.*
• Assist with meal planning and preparation in accordance with individual preferences.*
• Administer or assist with prescribed medications per agency policy and state*

regulations.

• Ensure a clean, safe, and supportive living environment that fosters comfort and*

independence. Skill Development & Independence

• Implement individualized personal care plans focused on building independence,*

communication, and social skills.

• Encourage and teach residents to perform daily tasks independently whenever*

possible.

• Reinforce positive behaviors and model appropriate social and household skills.*
• Support residents in setting and achieving personal goals that enhance their*

autonomy and confidence. Health, Wellness, & Behavioral Support

• Monitor residents’ physical and emotional well-being, noting any changes in behavior or health status.*
• Support healthy habits such as nutrition, exercise, and hygiene routines.*
• Implement approved behavior support plans and use de-escalation or crisis*

intervention strategies when necessary.

• Maintain clear and timely communication with the care team to support integrated patient care.*
• Partner with care team members to ensure alignment and coordination of patient care plans.*

Community & Social Engagement

• Encourage and facilitate participation in recreational, social, and community inclusion activities.*
• Support residents in developing and maintaining positive relationships within and*

outside the home.

• Advocate for residents’ rights, preferences, and full participation in community life.*
• Facilitate participant transportation to appointments, activities, and outings by driving, accompanying participants via rideshare (e.g., Uber), or arranging independent transport as appropriate.*

Documentation & Compliance

• Maintain accurate daily documentation, progress notes, and incident reports in*

accordance with agency standards and regulatory requirements.

• Ensure all activities are completed in alignment with residents’ Individualized Service Plans (ISPs).*
• Participate in required trainings, staff meetings, and ongoing professional*

development.

Qualifications

• Education: Coursework or certification in human services, psychology, or related field preferred. High school diploma or equivalent required.*
• Experience: Prior experience providing direct care or residential support to individuals with disabilities strongly preferred.*
• Certifications: Current CPR and First Aid certification and Medication*

Administration certification preferred (or willingness to obtain).

• Skills & Attributes:*
• Self-aware, respectful, and eager to learn while demonstrating*

understanding and commitment to individuals with IDD.

• Compassionate, patient, and dedicated to promoting individual rights and*

inclusion.

• Dependable and able to work independently and collaboratively within a*

team.

• Physically capable of assisting with mobility, transfers, and household tasks*

(up to 75 lbs. lift/push/pull).

• Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, holidays,*

or overnights as needed.

Why Join Our Team
As a Direct Support Professional, you will be part of a mission-driven team that makes a real difference in people’s lives every day. You’ll have the opportunity to help individuals build independence, achieve personal milestones, and experience meaningful connections within their homes and communities. This role offers flexibility, professional growth, and the fulfillment of empowering others to live their best lives.

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Pay: From $16.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Paid time off

Work Location: In person

Salary : $16