Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Position Summary

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides person-centered, non-medical support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in both day habilitation and employment-focused services. This position operates within New Jersey Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) standards and emphasizes independence, community inclusion, and skill development. The DSP supports individuals in achieving their goals as outlined in their Individualized Service Plans (ISPs), including daily living skills, socialization, and employment readiness. Services are delivered in program settings and community-based environments, with a focus on teaching skills, promoting choice, and fostering self-sufficiency.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Direct Support & Daily Living Skills

• Provide support with activities of daily living (ADLs), including:
• Personal hygiene, grooming, and toileting, as needed
• Meal preparation and feeding support
• Mobility, transfers, and positioning as needed
• Provide supervision based on individual needs (e.g., line of sight, within arm’s reach)
• Encourage independence by supporting individuals to complete tasks on their own to the greatest extent possible

Day Program & Community Integration

• Facilitate structured daily activities that promote skill development and engagement
• Support participation in community outings, recreation, and social opportunities
• Encourage positive social interactions and relationship-building
• Maintain a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment

Prevocational Skill Development

· Provide structured activities that build job readiness skills, including:

o Communication and workplace social skills

o Time management and task completion

o Following directions and workplace expectations

· Reinforce appropriate workplace behaviors such as punctuality, dress, and professionalism

· Support individuals in understanding job roles and responsibilities

Supported Employment Services

• Provide on-the-job coaching in integrated community employment settings
• Assist individuals in learning and performing job tasks
• Utilize teaching strategies such as prompting, modeling, and task analysis
• Gradually fade supports to increase independence and promote natural supports
• Communicate with employers as appropriate while maintaining professionalism and confidentiality

Implementation of Individualized Service Plans (ISPs)

• Follow and implement ISP goals and outcomes
• Support individuals in developing skills related to independence and employment
• Monitor and document progress toward goals

Documentation & Compliance

• Complete accurate and timely documentation, including:
• Service Delivery Records (SDRs)
• Daily notes and progress documentation
• Ensure documentation reflects true service delivery (Day Program vs. Prevoc vs. Employment hours)
• Maintain compliance with NJ DDD, Medicaid, and agency requirements

Health, Safety & Medication Support

• Monitor individuals’ health, behavior, and overall well-being
• Administer medications if trained and authorized
• Report incidents, concerns, or changes in condition promptly
• Follow all safety procedures and emergency protocols

Transportation & Community Access

• Transport individuals to community activities or job sites (if applicable)
• Support individuals in learning transportation skills, including public transit and Access Link
• Ensure timely arrival and participation in scheduled activities and employment

Advocacy & Rights Protection

• Promote dignity, respect, and individual choice
• Support individuals in making informed decisions
• Maintain confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA and agency policies

Team Collaboration

• Work collaboratively with supervisors and team members to ensure quality services
• Participate in staff meetings, supervision, and required trainings
• Communicate effectively regarding individual progress, needs, and concerns

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $19.00 - $20.00 per hour

Work Location: In person