THE ARC OF LITCHFIELD COUNTY INC·Torrington, Connecticut
Direct Support Professionals provide hands-on assistance with daily living activities, personal care, and meal preparation for individuals with disabilities. They also facilitate community engagement and skill development to help individuals lead independent and joyful lives.
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.
Candidates must have a high school diploma or GED and be at least 21 years old with a valid driver's license and clean driving record. The role requires the physical ability to lift up to 50 pounds and a commitment to providing compassionate, safe support.
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Market context
In Connecticut, part-time Direct Support Professional roles are typically driven by ongoing demand for support in community and residential settings. These jobs can be competitive because employers often look for candidates who are at least 21, have a high school diploma or GED, a valid driver’s license with a clean driving record, and the physical ability to lift up to 50 pounds. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then confirm your schedule flexibility and transportation readiness before applying.