What are the responsibilities and job description for the Full-Time Direct Support Professional (CDS) position at SAVE (St. Clair Associated Vocational Enterprises)?
SAVE, Inc. is seeking a compassionate and reliable Direct Support Professional (DSP) to join our Community Day Services (CDS) Program. Shift is (Monday - Friday 8:00am - 4:00pm). Under the supervision of a Qualified Intellectual Disabilities Professional (QIDP) and the Director of Day Services, the DSP provides direct care, supervision, and support to adults with developmental disabilities in a structured day-program environment.
This role is critical to ensuring consumer safety, dignity, independence, and engagement while implementing individualized plans, vocational activities, and community integration opportunities.
Key Responsibilities
- Ensure the health, safety, and rights of all consumers at all times
- Provide direct support based on each consumer’s Individual Service Plan, Implementation Strategy, and Behavior Plan
- Assist with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) including toileting, feeding, positioning, and personal care as needed
- Implement and document program goals, vocational tasks, and training objectives
- Accurately complete required documentation including:
- Data sheets
- Incident/accident reports
- Behavior tracking
- Seizure reports
- Attendance and drill documentation
- Supervise consumers during:
- Program activities
- Lunch and breaks
- Transportation
- Community outings and recreational activities
- Maintain a positive, respectful, and engaging environment
- Follow all behavior intervention plans using the least restrictive methods
- Communicate daily program needs, changes, or concerns to QIDPs or supervisors
- Assist with consumer transportation as needed (driving or supervision)
- Immediately report concerns related to abuse, neglect, or critical incidents in accordance with DHS and agency policy
- Participate in interdisciplinary team meetings as requested
- Perform other duties as assigned
Qualifications
Education & Experience
- MUST be DSP certified through the Dept. of Human Services
- High School Diploma or GED required
- MUST have at least 1 year experience supporting individuals with developmental disabilities
Required Skills & Knowledge
- Understanding of person-centered services and consumer rights
- Ability to collect and maintain accurate documentation
- Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work independently and make sound decisions under pressure
- Ability to follow written and verbal instructions
Licenses & Certifications
- Valid Illinois Driver’s License and auto insurance
- Current CPR and First Aid certification (or ability to obtain)
- Direct Support Professional Certification
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, lift, and assist with transfers
- Ability to lift up to 50–75 lbs with or without reasonable accommodation
- Frequent use of hands and arms for documentation, assistance, and supervision
- Ability to assist consumers using wheelchairs or adaptive equipment
Work Environment (Monday - Friday 8:00am - 4:00pm)
- Community day program setting with frequent interaction with consumers and staff
- May involve exposure to bodily fluids and other unpleasant conditions
- Indoor and community-based activities
Benefits
- Competitive hourly pay
- Training and professional development opportunities
- Meaningful work supporting adults with disabilities
- Supportive, mission-driven team environment
Our Mission
SAVE, Inc. is committed to supporting adults with disabilities through person-centered services that promote dignity, independence, community inclusion, and quality of life.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $18.75 - $19.75 per hour
Expected hours: 37.5 per week
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid sick time
- Paid time off
- Paid training
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Education:
- High school or equivalent (Required)
Experience:
- Direct support professional: 1 year (Required)
- Working with individuals with developmental disabilities: 1 year (Required)
License/Certification:
- Direct Support Professional Certification (Required)
- Driver's License (Required)
Shift availability:
- Day Shift (Required)
Ability to Commute:
- Belleville, IL 62221 (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $19 - $20