Aspire Chicago·Waukegan, Illinois
The Direct Support Professional provides person-centered care to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in residential settings. Responsibilities include assisting with daily living activities, facilitating community integration, and documenting care plans to ensure health and safety.
Description Are you a caring and motivated individual? Do you enjoy building relationships and contributing to a positive environment? Do you have a passion for helping individuals develop their independence and achieve personal goals? Are you looking for a career with a purpose?
If so, apply to join the Aspire team as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) today! We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated Direct Support Professional (DSP) to join our team. As a DSP, you will provide person-centered support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in our CILA (Community Integrated Living Arrangement) homes, in their daily lives. This role plays a crucial part in promoting independence, community integration, and overall well-being for individuals receiving services, by supporting their personal needs, encouraging respectful interactions with others, and creating a positive living environment.
Assist individuals with daily living activities such as personal care, hygiene, dressing, meal preparation, and housekeeping. Support individuals in accessing community resources, including social, recreational, and employment opportunities. Drive adult individuals to doctor appointments, to and from work, and various errands (company provided vehicle) Encourage and assist with skill-building activities designed to promote independence and personal growth. Implement individualized care plans developed by case managers and healthcare professionals. Provide emotional support and foster positive relationships with individuals. Document individuals care and/or clinical plan and report any significant changes in the individual's behavior, health, or well-being. Monitor the health and safety of individuals, ensuring that proper protocols are followed in emergency situations. Ensure compliance with state and federal regulations related to disability services and support. Attend regular staff meetings, training sessions, and performance evaluations. Maintain a positive, respectful, inclusive and welcoming environment for individuals in your care. Serve as a liaison to represent Aspire in the community Additional duties as assigned
Proof of High school diploma or GED required; additional training or certification in social work, healthcare, or related field preferred. Valid driver’s license with a good driving record for the past 5 years and reliable transportation. Prior experience in direct care, working with individuals with disabilities, or in a similar role. Technologically savvy or the ability to use technology effectively, including computers, mobile devices, and software for documentation or communication purposes. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Strong communication skills and the ability to develop rapport with individuals. Compassionate, patient, and respectful demeanor. Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed. Must pass required criminal background checks Have and present in-person original copies of required I9 documents Physical Requirements: Ability to lift, move, and assist individuals in a safe and respectful manner. Ability to stand, sit, or kneel for extended periods of time. Ability to perform tasks that require manual dexterity and strength (e.g., assisting with mobility or personal care tasks).
· $20.50 - $21.50/hour (depending on experience) · Sign-on bonuses for full-time ($1,500) (paid out in three installments over 6 months) · Referral bonuses · Paid training · Retirement plan with matching contributions · Health and insurance benefits (hours requirement) · Paid time off benefits · And more! (see benefits list below)
At Aspire our values inspire our belief in the power of possible; we empower others to achieve their dreams, lend a hand to others, celebrate belonging, seek feedback from others to improve, and show respect and build trust.
Aspire has entry-level full-time positions available. We consider all applicants who meet the minimum requirements listed above. Apply to join our team if you are just entering or returning to the workforce, have limited experience or education. We provide the training!
Voted as one of the 101 Best and Brightest Companies to work for in Chicago! We know that Together, We’re Better!
Aspire was founded in 1960 and is recognized as a leader in providing bold, pioneering, and uncompromising services to adults with developmental disabilities, their families, and the community. In 2019, we joined forces with NorthPointe Resources to be one of the most recognized and respected disability service providers across the Chicago metropolitan area, Lake County (Illinois), and southeastern Wisconsin areas.
Benefits: at Aspire (a waiting period applies for some benefits):
Health Insurance (including dental and vision) Flexible Spending Account (FSA) Benefit Time (Vacation, Sick, Personal) 13 Paid Holidays 403(B) Retirement Savings Plan with matching contribution Disability Insurance Life Insurance Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Pet insurance Other voluntary Insurances available
Aspire’s priority is keeping our team members and participants healthy and safe. PPE is provided and regular cleaning and disinfecting regiments are followed to maintain a safe work and living environment. Hand sanitizer is available throughout our facilities.
Aspire is an equal employment opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.
Aspire is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for applicants with disabilities so that an applicant may complete the essential functions of a position. The essential functions of positions are outlined in a position’s job description. To request an accommodation or if you have a question regarding what the essential functions of a position are please contact the People Team at 708.497.4573.
Candidates must possess a high school diploma or GED and a valid driver's license with a good driving record. The role requires the ability to perform physical tasks such as lifting and assisting with mobility, along with strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Market context
Emergency Medicine physician roles in Illinois are typically driven by steady hospital and emergency department coverage needs, especially in larger metro and regional referral settings. These positions are competitive because employers usually expect active Illinois medical licensure, DEA certification, and board certification or eligibility, along with completed Emergency Medicine training. On this platform, job requirements and benefits are AI-summarized from the original job description, saving you research time; review the residency, licensure, and CME details closely before applying.