What are the responsibilities and job description for the Direct Support Professional (DSP) (Generalist / Multiple Locations) position at The Arc of Centre County?
Job Title: Direct Support Professional (DSP) / Program Generalist
Pay: $20 hour Shift Differentials Up to $1,200 Sign-On & Stay-On Bonus
Location: Multiple Group Homes in State College, Bellefonte, or Howard, PA
Schedule: Full-Time and Part-Time Opportunities Available
No Experience Needed, All Training is Paid.
Schedule & Pay
- Starting pay: $20 hour
- Up to $1,200 sign-on/stay-on bonus in 2026
- Additional $1/hour shift differentials for nights, weekends, and holidays
- Opportunities to pick up extra shifts and overtime (time-and-a-half)
Benefits
- Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- Health Savings Account (HSA)
- Life and AD&D Insurance
- Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
- Voluntary Life Insurance
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- 401(k) Retirement Plan
- Mileage reimbursement when using a personal vehicle for approved transportation
- Agency vehicles provided for residential outings
- Paid training and ongoing professional development (26 hours training per year)
Required Qualifications
- 18 years of age or older
- High School Diploma or GED
- Valid driver's license
- Able to pass required physical, and TB screening
- Able to assist with physical supports including lifting, bending, standing, and transferring as needed
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience working with intellectual and developmental disabilities and autism (IDD/A)
- Experience in direct care, caregiving, behavioral health, or healthcare
What You'll Do
As a Direct Support Professional, you'll help adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities live more independent, fulfilling lives by:
- Assisting with daily living skills, including cooking, hygiene, and household routines
- Administering medications and following support plans
- Supporting community participation, recreation, and social activities
- Providing transportation to appointments and community outings
- Encouraging independence, choice, and personal growth
- Building meaningful relationships while making a difference every day
What Makes This Role Unique
The Program Generalist position offers the opportunity to work across multiple residential and community-based programs throughout Centre County.
This role is ideal for individuals who enjoy variety, flexibility, and the chance to gain experience supporting different individuals, teams, and service models.
Growth Opportunities
- Professional Credentialing: Earn nationally recognized DSP credentials through NADSP and receive an additional $1/hour for each credential level earned, up to $3/hour.
- Cross-Program Experience: Explore opportunities in Residential Services, Community Programming, Supported Living, and Employment Services.
- Internal Promotion Culture: Many of our supervisors, directors, and executive leaders began their careers as DSPs.
About the Role
The Arc of Centre County is hiring Full-Time and Part-Time Program Generalists/Direct Support Professionals to support adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in group homes throughout Centre County. Homes are located in State College, Bellefonte, or Howard, PA.
Program Generalists work across multiple residential, providing flexible support where it is needed most while gaining experience with a variety of individuals, services, and teams.
This is an excellent opportunity for individuals looking for entry-level work or a rewarding, purpose-driven career. Paid training is provided, so you can begin a career in human services with the support and confidence to succeed.
Questions? Text Mo at (814) 810-7031
The Arc of Centre County is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a United Way Agency.