Direct support professional

Job Description

Job Description

Community-Based Day Program Direct Support Professionals provide structured skill training, supervision, and support to adults with developmental disabilities in community-based, center-based, and integrated settings. DSPs support participants in achieving goals outlined in their Individual Program Plans (IPP), with a focus on independence, socialization, vocational readiness, health and safety, and meaningful community participation in accordance with Title 17 regulations.Participant Support & Skill Development

• Establish and maintain supportive, respectful, and professional relationships with participants
• Support participants in achieving IPP goals related to: o Community integration
• Social and interpersonal skills o Vocational readiness and work-related behaviors
• Independent living and self-advocacy skills
• Facilitate structured group and individual activities in communitybased settings (e.g., volunteering, recreation, life skills training, educational outings)

Community Integration

• Assist participants in accessing and navigating community resources, including public transportation, recreational programs, volunteer sites, and other inclusive environments
• Promote participant choice, dignity, and maximum selfdetermination during all program activities
• Model appropriate social behavior and provide coaching in realtime community situations

Health, Safety & Supervision

• Provide continuous supervision to ensure participant health, safety, and wellbeing during program hours
• Minimize risk and respond appropriately to behavioral, mental health, or medical concerns
• Implement behavioral support plans and health plans after training
• Perform first aid, CPR, and emergency response procedures as needed

Documentation & Communication

• Accurately document services provided, including daily service notes, data collection, and progress toward IPP goals
• Complete and submit all required billing, attendance, and payroll documentation in a timely and accurate manner
• Provide regular participant updates to the Program Supervisor
• Communicate professionally with Regional Center staff, families, and interdisciplinary team members as required

Professional Responsibilities

• Attend required staff meetings, training, and IPP meetings as assigned
• Follow assigned schedules, program routines, and agency policies
• Maintain confidentiality and always respect participant privacy
• Represent Jaqui’ Foundation professionally in all community and program settings
• Perform other duties as assigned to support program operations

Physical & Environmental Requirements

• Ability to remain active throughout the day, including walking, standing, and participating in community activities
• Ability to lift 50 pounds and assist participants in emergency situations if required
• Ability to safely transport participants when assigned (if applicable)

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED
• Minimum six (6) months’ experience working with adults with developmental disabilities and/or mental health or behavioral support needs
• Strong verbal and written communication skills in English
• Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team
• Ability to follow behavioral and health plans and respond appropriately to crisis situations
• Willingness and ability to obtain or maintain: o CPR and First Aid certification
• Crisis Prevention / De-escalation certification o TB clearance
• Fingerprint clearance
• Valid California driver’s license, clean DMV record, and current auto insurance (if transporting participants)
• Ability to attend required training courses and meetings
• Respect for cultural, linguistic, and personal values of participants and their support networks

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

Jaqui’ Foundation is an equal opportunity employer. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, medical condition, marital status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.

• Flexibility and versatility in problem analysis and resolution
• Practices a high level of confidentiality

Preferred Education

• High school diploma or GED or equivalent experience

Physical Requirements

Standing: Must be able to stand intermittently

Sitting: Must be able to sit regularly for extended periods

Lifting: Must be able to occasionally lift up to 50lbs.

Reaching: Must be able to reach and handle filed documents

Speech and Language: Must be able to clearly speak and write English

Vision: Vision correctable to DMV licensing standards

Hearing: Must be able to communicate effectively via telephone and in person

Health Screening: Must complete a TB Test screen, physical, and live scan