Direct Support Professional - DSP

Keywords

• CNA, PCA, personal care attendant, group home, direct care, direct support, direct support professional, DSP, nonprofit, human services, social services, disability, developmental, intellectual, DDS, compassion, community living, autism, behavioral health, healthcare, caregiving.QUALIFICATIONS & TRAININGWhat You’ll Bring A positive attitude, compassion, and a genuine desire to help others. A high school diploma or GED. At least 21 years of age with a valid driver’s license and clean driving record. Willingness to complete background checks and physical. Basic computer skills and a commitment to teamwork. Physical Requirements & Work Environment Being a Direct Support Professional (DSP) is an active, hands-on role that requires both physical and emotional energy. Each day can look a little different, but every task contributes to creating a safe, inclusive, and empowering environment for the people you support.
• To be successful in this position, you’ll need to:
• Stay active and engaged: DSPs spend much of their day on their feet — walking, standing, and moving throughout residential homes, program sites, or the community. You may assist with household chores, accompany individuals on walks or recreational activities, and provide transportation to appointments or outings.
• Safely assist individuals: You may need to lift or transfer individuals, push wheelchairs, or assist with mobility equipment. This role requires the ability to lift up to 50 pounds (or ¼ of your body weight) and to support another person safely during transfers or emergencies.
• Move with flexibility: You’ll frequently bend, squat, kneel, climb stairs, and reach to provide care, assist with dressing, prepare meals, or participate in activities.
• Respond quickly and calmly: Occasionally, you may need to move quickly — whether redirecting a situation, helping someone who’s unsteady, or intervening in an emergency.
• Communicate and document effectively: Clear speech, hearing, reading, writing, and basic computer skills are essential to communicate with individuals, colleagues, and supervisors, and to accurately complete documentation and reports.
• Maintain stamina and focus: DSPs must have sufficient endurance to perform their duties for extended periods — staying alert, supportive, and responsive throughout the shift.
• Drive safely: Many DSPs transport individuals using agency or personal vehicles, requiring a valid driver’s license, safe driving history, and comfort navigating local routes.
• Work in varied environments: You’ll work indoors and outdoors, in residential and community settings. Conditions may include household environments, exposure to cleaning products, or occasional outdoor activities in variable weather. Reasonable accommodations will be made for qualified candidates with disabilities. LARC provides comprehensive training on all safety and lifting procedures to help protect both you and the individuals you serve. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this job.