DSP (Direct Support Professional)

Kahak Health·Roanoke, Virginia

$20 - $20/hrPart Time On Site 0-2 yrsPosted 21 days ago

Practice for this role

DSP (Direct Support Professional) · $20 - $20/hr

How this role compares

Computed from live listings

-34% vs. median posted rate for healthcare roles in Roanoke, Virginia ($30.47/hr, n=272)

$13.50/hr · p10p90 · $1,170/hr

this role: $20.00/hrmedian $30.47/hr

Shaded band: the middle 50% of 272 posted healthcare roles in Roanoke, Virginia rates. This role sits in the 21st percentile.

About the role

Pay for this role is about 34% below the Roanoke, Virginia median for similar positions.

The Direct Support Professional will provide in-home and community-based supervision to ensure the safety and engagement of a school-age individual with autism. Responsibilities include active participation in activities, behavioral redirection, and maintaining accurate daily documentation.

Direct Support Professional (DSP) — In-Home Support Kahak Health Care Services is seeking a dependable and patient Direct Support Professional (DSP) to provide in-home and community-based support to a school-age individual. This position is a good fit for someone who is calm, attentive, active, and comfortable supporting a child with autism-related needs and behavioral challenges.

Schedule 18 hours per week Sunday

3:00 PM – 8:00
PM
Tuesday: 6:00 PM – 8:00
PM
Wednesday: 6:00 PM – 8:00
PM
Thursday: 6:00 PM – 8:00
PM
Friday: 6:00 PM – 8:00
PM
Saturday: 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM

What You Will Do The DSP will

Provide close supervision for safety. Help prevent wandering or elopement. Keep the individual active and engaged during the shift. Support activities at home and in the community. Help with communication and appropriate choices. Assist with transitions between activities. Use calm redirection when the individual becomes frustrated. Support daily living skills as needed. Participate in community outings. Complete required daily documentation.

What You Should Know About This Case The individual enjoys

Outdoor activities Parks Water play Art and creative activities Building and making things

Sensory and comfort items

The individual does best when staff: Stay calm and patient. Give no more than 1–2 choices at a time. Avoid demanding language. Avoid using “No” when possible. Offer another choice or redirect instead. Give extra time to process changes. Keep activities available throughout the shift.

The individual may become upset when: Told “No” Given too many choices Asked to transition quickly Feeling rushed Given repeated demands Hungry Overstimulated

There is also a significant wandering/elopement concern, so the DSP must remain alert and provide active supervision throughout the shift.

Ideal Candidate We are looking for someone who is

Reliable and punctual Patient Calm under pressure Comfortable working with children Comfortable supporting individuals with autism Comfortable with behavioral challenges Able to remain active throughout the shift Able to provide close supervision Comfortable participating in community activities Able to follow support and safety plans Able to complete clear and accurate documentation

This is an active support position, not a passive sitting or companion role. The DSP should expect to participate in activities, provide redirection, support communication, and maintain close attention to safety throughout the shift.

Requirements

A minimum of one year experience in the medical or a related field (social work, psychology, nursing assistance, etc.) and a high school diploma or equivalency. Must be 18 years of age. Additionally, the following are required: A reliable car A current driver's license A current work authorization (US Passport, US Work Authorization card, Permanent Resident Card) or a Birth Certificate Social Security Card Current auto insurance Current CPR & First Aid Current physical exam Current tuberculosis test with negative result Resume

If hired, background checks (FBI) and a Central Registry (CRS) check will be required.

If you meet ALL of these criteria and are excited about this opportunity, please apply.

Call/Text

757-840-6072 or
Email: Region5@kahak.com

Posting details

Employment type: Part Time
Work arrangement: On Site
Experience: 0-2 yrs
Salary: $20 - $20/hr
Location: Roanoke, Virginia
Posted: Aug 19, 2026
Application: Employer website

Virginia DSP Roles Require Readiness and Reliability

Virginia DSP positions commonly reflect steady demand for dependable professionals supporting individuals with daily living and care needs. Candidates may be more competitive with at least one year of medical or related experience, a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid license, reliable transportation, current CPR/First Aid certification, and background-check eligibility; this role lists $20 per hour. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits from the original job description to save research time, then confirm certifications are current before applying.