What are the responsibilities and job description for the Direct Support Professional position at Peace Love Healthcare?
Ohio Adult Day Care
(DBA) Peace Love Healthcare
Job Title
Direct Support Professional (DSP)
Reports To
Program Supervisor or Site Manager
Location
Peace Love Healthcare — Ohio (multiple community and in-home settings: Cuyahoga, Summit, Geauga, Fairfield, Franklin, and Delaware Counties)
Position Summary
At Peace Love Healthcare, we deliver compassionate, person-centered support that helps individuals thrive, remain independent, and participate fully in their communities. The Direct Support Professional provides direct care and meaningful engagement to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This role supports individualized goals, daily living, community participation, and well-being in alignment with DODD standards and Peace Love Healthcare’s core values of peace, love, and strengthened care.
Essential Job Functions
Person-Centered Support
Support individuals in a manner consistent with person-centered planning principles
Assist individuals in achieving goals outlined in their Individual Service Plan
Promote independence, self-determination, and choice
Respect individual rights, preferences, culture, and dignity at all times
Daily Living & Personal Care
Assist with activities of daily living, including hygiene, grooming, dressing, toileting, mobility, and meals as needed
Support medication administration in accordance with DODD and agency policy when certified
Assist with meal preparation, household tasks, and maintaining a clean and safe living environment
Health, Safety, and Compliance
Follow all DODD rules, Medicaid waiver requirements, and agency policies
Maintain a safe environment and respond appropriately to emergencies
Implement behavior support plans as written
Accurately document services provided, incidents, and progress notes
Report abuse, neglect, exploitation, and incidents as required by law
Community Integration
Support individuals in accessing the community, employment, education, recreation, and social opportunities
Encourage skill development related to communication, social interaction, and community participation
Provide transportation support when required
Professional Collaboration
Communicate effectively with supervisors, service coordinators, nurses, guardians, and interdisciplinary team members
Participate in required trainings, meetings, and supervision
Maintain professional boundaries and ethical conduct
Required Qualifications (Ohio DODD Aligned)
Must be at least 18 years of age
High school diploma or equivalent
Ability to pass a BCI and FBI background check in compliance with Ohio law
Completion of DODD-required training, including:
Orientation and provider-specific training
Abuse and neglect prevention
Individual rights
Health and safety
Behavior support, as applicable
Ability to obtain and maintain:
CPR and First Aid certification
Medication Administration certification, if applicable
Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation, if required for the role
Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English
Ability to complete accurate documentation and electronic records
Preferred Qualifications
Previous experience supporting individuals with developmental disabilities
Training or experience in positive behavior supports
Experience working in residential, day program, or community-based settings
Physical and Environmental Requirements
Ability to lift, push, or transfer individuals as required
Ability to stand, walk, bend, and assist with mobility
Ability to work in home, community, or residential settings
Ability to respond calmly and effectively in stressful situations
Core Competencies
Compassion and empathy
Reliability and accountability
Respect for diversity and inclusion
Strong communication skills
Professional judgment and ethics
Commitment to person-centered care
Compliance Statement
All services must be delivered in accordance with Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities rules, Medicaid waiver requirements, and agency policies (Ohio Administrative Code Chapter 5123). Failure to comply may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination.
Peace Love Healthcare is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and the individuals we serve. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, ancestry, national origin, age, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, religion, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
Peace Love Healthcare complies with all applicable Ohio and federal employment laws and provides reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the law.