Direct Support Professional (DSP)

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 looking for dedicated individuals to assist adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in our CILA (Community Integrated Living Arrangement) homes. The Direct Support Professional (DSP) acts as an advocate for individuals by supporting their personal needs, encouraging respectful interactions with others, and creating a positive living environment.

Aspire Direct Support Professional (DSP) Requirements

Requirements And Experience

• Proof of High School Diploma or GED
• Valid driver’s license, with 5 years of driving experience with a license, and an acceptable driving record for the past five years
• Must pass required criminal background checks
• Have and present in-person original copies of required I9 documents

Skills, Knowledge, And Abilities

• Effective oral and written communication skills; ability to write reports
• Comfortable using various computer software to stay connected (i.e. Outlook, Zoom, online training, etc.)
• Ability to maintain confidential information
• Ability to deal tactfully, respectfully, and courteously with participants, employees at all levels, families, and the general public

Preferred Experience

• Personal or professional experience in a caregiver role
• 1-year experience working with adults with developmental disabilities

We Offer

• $20.50 - $21.50/hour (depending on experience)
• Sign-on bonuses for full-time ($1,500) and part-time ($750) (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 and part-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!

Direct Support Professional (DSP) Position Responsibilities

• Support adult individuals with daily activities such as shopping, laundry, money management, and home care
• Assist individuals with grooming, bathing, toileting, and dressing as needed
• Assist with connectivity to others through various technology platforms (i.e. Zoom)
• Assist with meal preparation and cooking
• Perform light housekeeping duties
• Monitor or administer medication dosage to participants
• Drive adult individuals to doctor appointments, to and from work, and various errands (company provided vehicle)
• May provide mobility support to participants, which includes lifting or walking utilizing adaptive equipment
• Complete and submit reports
• Provide companionship to individuals
• Encourage attitudes and behaviors that foster community inclusion
• Serve as a liaison to represent Aspire in the community
• Complete the established Illinois Department of Human Services DSP training (training provided through Aspire), including medication training, and maintain required certifications and on-going training
• Additional duties as assigned

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):

Full Time (regularly Scheduled To Work At Least 37 1/2 Hours Per Week) And Part Time 30 (regularly Scheduled To Work Between 37 1/2 And 30 Hours Per Week)

• 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

Part Time (regularly scheduled to work less than 30 hours per week):

• Health Insurance (if hours requirement met after a year of employment)
• Paid Time Off - 4 Hours Earned for Every 520 Hours Worked
• Paid Leave For All - 1 Hour Earned for Every 40 Hours Worked (maximum accrual 40 hours)
• Sick Time - 1 Hour Earned for Every 40 Hours Worked (maximum accrual of 192 hours)
• Holiday Premium Pay
• 403(B) Retirement Savings Plan with matching contribution
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Pet Insurance

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. Salary Description

$20.50-$21.50