What are the responsibilities and job description for the Direct Support Professional - Residential position at The Arc Mercer?
Position: Direct Support Professional (DSP)
Compensation: $18.25/hour (Full-Time), $19.50/hour (Part-Time)
Status: Full-Time/Part-Time
Category: Non-Exempt
Hours: Varies
Reports to: Residential Manager
Location: Mercer County, NJ
What We Offer:
- Top 401k plans in the industry. Employer contribution of 5% and 6% match, for a total of 11%
- Comprehensive Medical and Dental Benefits - Full Time only
- Paid Vacation, Sick & Holidays
Who We Are
The Arc Mercer is a trusted leader in providing comprehensive support and services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) across Mercer County. For over 70 years, we have been dedicated to creating a more inclusive community by empowering individuals to live fulfilling and independent lives.
Job Summary: We are seeking dedicated Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to join our Residential Team in Mercer County. As a DSP, you will provide hands-on support to individuals with I/DD who may have challenges, helping them achieve greater independence and build valuable life skills. Your role will be pivotal in fostering a safe, inclusive, and empowering environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide direct care to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
- Follow individualized behavior intervention plans developed by behavior analysts or specialists to ensure consistency and effectiveness.
- Recognize signs of escalation, intervene promptly, and use approved behavioral techniques to de-escalate situations.
- Accurately record behavioral incidents, progress notes, and other required data.
- Assist with personal hygiene, grooming, feeding, medical monitoring, and health-related tasks.
- Build and maintain positive relationships with individuals served and their families.
- Ensure client safety and maintain a secure, clean environment.
- Remind and assist clients with medication self-administration (with proper training).
- Encourage and promote self-help and independence.
- Monitor and report changes in clients' conditions or family situations to supervisors.
- Perform home management tasks such as light housekeeping, laundry, and meal preparation.
- Accompany clients to appointments and community activities, providing transportation when needed.
- Assist with toileting and other physical care tasks as required.
- Follow all health and safety guidelines, policies, and procedures.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
- High School Diploma/GED required.
- Valid driver's license with a clean driving record (no more than three moving violations/suspensions in the past three years).
- Prior experience working with adults with developmental disabilities preferred.
- Ability to work in Residential Program or home-like settings.
- Physical ability to perform job tasks, including lifting up to 25 pounds, bending, stooping, pushing, pulling, and extended periods of walking.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Why Join Us? At The Arc Mercer, you'll be part of a mission-driven organization where your work truly makes a difference. Join a supportive, professional environment that values growth, collaboration, and the power of inclusion. Here, you'll have the opportunity to empower individuals to achieve their fullest potential, while building your own skills and career through ongoing training and development.
If you're passionate about helping others thrive in the workplace and the community, we invite you to bring your talents to our team. Together, we'll create meaningful opportunities and make a lasting impact. Join us at The Arc Mercer-where every day is an opportunity to change lives.
Have Questions? Email us at recruiter@arcmercer.org or call 609-477-9806 for more information.
Equal Opportunity Employer The Arc Mercer is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.
Salary : $18 - $20