Direct Support Professional (DSP), Residential Services

Overview

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

• Status: Part-time, 20+ hours per week
• Schedule: Week 1: Monday and Tuesday 7:00 am - 3:00 pm; Week 2: Saturday and Sunday 7:00 am - 3:00 pm
• Location: Harrisburg, PA
• Pay: $19.00 per hour, up to $19.75 per hour with NADSP DSP certification(s)
• An extra $1 per hour for eligible 2nd shift and weekend hours

What We’re Looking For:

• Entry level, training provided
• A valid driver’s license and 6 months driving experience
• 18 years of age
• Access to a vehicle with valid insurance, registration, and inspection
• Ability to communicate, read, write, and understand the English language
• Preferred: Previous Personal Care Aide, Caregiver, Direct Support Professional (DSP), or Direct Care Worker experience
• Preferred: Knowledge of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and/or autism

As a DSP (Direct Support Professional) in Residential Services, you’ll support adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in their homes by assisting with daily needs, teaching life skills, encouraging independence, and promoting a safe and meaningful home life.

What You’ll Do:

• Support individuals with daily living needs, including bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, meal preparation, use of adaptive equipment, and providing transportation to appointments, activities, and community outings (with hands-on training provided)
• Promote independence, confidence, and life-skill development by teaching and supporting skills that empower individuals to achieve personal goals
• Build trusting, respectful relationships through effective communication
• Follow individualized support plans and document progress
• Assist with health and safety needs, including medication support and monitoring
• Promote meaningful activities, community involvement, and strong social connections
• Build meaningful relationships by forming genuine connections and being part of a supportive, team-oriented environment that values compassion and respect

Why UCP?

• Welcomes both entry level and experienced individuals
• Paid training and certifications including; CPR, First Aid, and Medication Administration
• Opportunities for advancement through our Pathfinder Program or within our growing organization
• Same day pay available through Tapcheck
• Comprehensive benefits may include, Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement with Company Match, Paid Time Off (PTO), and more
• Eligible for Federal Student Loan Forgiveness
• Inclusive culture that values feedback, individuality, and employee recognition
• Refer & earn $1,000

Join Our Team!

Change lives. Including your own – Apply today.

UCP Central PA is committed to being an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and offers opportunities to all job seekers, including job seekers with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation to assist with your job search or application for employment, please contact us by sending an email to jobs@ucpcentralpa.org. 

Responsibilities

Here’s what to expect as a Direct Support Professional (DSP):

• Help individuals with disabilities build self-esteem and independence through making everyday decisions.  
• Use effective communication to build relationships and rapport with the individuals.
• Develop and carry out an individualized plan based on individual preferences, needs, and interests.
• Provide and assist the individuals with direct care skills such as personal care and hygiene.
• Teach and assist the individuals with daily living skills.
• Assist with adaptive equipment and therapies (i.e., physical, occupational, and speech).
• Explore work interests with the individual and assist in preparing for job or school entry.
• Develop and assist with relationships within the community to establish social connections, community connections and relationships.
• Arrange and supervise activities including shopping trips, social outings, and doctor’s appointments for each individual.

Qualifications

Minimum requirements as a DSP:

• A valid driver’s license and 6 months driving experience
• Previous Personal Care Aide, Caregiver, Direct Support Professional (DSP), or Direct Care Worker experience
• Knowledge of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and/or autism
• 18 years of age
• Access to a vehicle with valid insurance, registration, and inspection
• A team player who can be flexible with their schedule
• Ability to communicate, read, write, and understand the English language

If you are still reading, we should talk! Apply today, we would love to hear your story and share ours.

UCP Central PA is committed to being an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and offers opportunities to all job seekers, including job seekers with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation to assist with your job search or application for employment, please contact us by sending an email to jobs@ucpcentralpa.org.