Direct Support Professional (DSP) – IDD Group Home
Pay Rate: $20.00 per hour
Shifts Available:
Day Shift: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Evening Shift: 3:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Setting: Residential Group Home for Adults with Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities (IDD)
1. POSITION SUMMARY
The Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides direct care and behavioral support to adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, including individuals with challenging behaviors such as suicidal ideation, self-harm tendencies, aggression, and emotional instability.
The DSP promotes safety, stability, daily living skills, meal preparation, socialization, and therapeutic engagement within the home.
2. QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS
Must be 18 years or older
Must pass a criminal background check and Central Registry check
Experience with ID/DD population strongly preferred
Crisis stabilization or de-escalation training (CPI, Mandt, etc.) preferred
Ability to stay calm during behavioral crises
Must be able to lift 20+ lbs and perform household duties
Strong communication and documentation skills
3. CORE RESPONSIBILITIES
A. Behavioral Support & Safety
Monitor residents for suicidal thoughts, self-harm, aggression, or emotional distress
Follow Behavior Support Plans (BSPs) and Safety Plans exactly as written
Use approved de-escalation techniques during crisis situations
Document all behavior incidents, triggers, interventions, and outcomes
Ensure the environment remains safe, secure, and free of hazards
B. Daily Living Skills & Personal Support
Provide assistance and prompts for hygiene, grooming, dressing, and routines
Support residents in building independence and daily life skills
Assist with medication reminders if permitted by policy
Encourage participation in therapy activities, community engagement, and recreational programs
C. Meal Preparation
Prepare three balanced meals per shift as assigned
Assist residents with safe meal preparation when appropriate
Clean and sanitize the kitchen, dining area, and utensils
Follow all dietary restrictions and food safety protocols
D. Cleaning & Household Maintenance (In-Depth)
Perform daily cleaning tasks including:
Sweeping, mopping, vacuuming
Sanitizing bathrooms and kitchens
Cleaning resident rooms as assigned
Dusting and disinfecting high-touch areas
Complete weekly deep cleaning according to the facility schedule
Maintain a safe, organized, and hazard-free living environment
E. Linen & Laundry
Wash, dry, fold, and store linens and towels
Change resident bedding weekly or as needed
Maintain well-organized laundry and linen storage areas
F. Socialization & Engagement
Encourage residents to build positive relationships
Participate in games, conversations, outings, and therapeutic activities
Promote emotional regulation and positive coping strategies
G. Documentation
Complete progress notes, logs, and incident reports accurately
Record any behavioral changes or safety concerns
Follow all DBHDS, HCBS, and agency documentation standards
Report issues immediately to the on-duty supervisor or Administrator
4. RISK MANAGEMENT EXPECTATIONS
DSPs must be able to support residents who may experience:
Suicidal ideation
Self-injurious behavior
Aggression or property destruction
Elopement attempts
Psychiatric crises
Staff must:
Stay alert to mood changes, triggers, and verbal cues
Reduce stimulation and offer grounding, calming strategies
Follow the chain of command for emergencies
Request backup from on-call or emergency services when needed
NEVER leave a resident unsupervised during a crisis situation
5. PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS
Maintain professional boundaries and confidentiality
Represent the agency with professionalism at all times
No personal cell phone use except for emergencies
Arrive on time and complete full shift responsibilities
Treat all residents with dignity, respect, and compassion
6. COMPENSATION
$20.00 per hour FOR 90 DAYS then Increase
