DSP-Direct Support Professional
Confidential
Posted: May 19, 2026
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Quick Summary
The Direct Support Professional provides direct care and support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, assisting in daily living skills and community activities.
Required Skills
Job Description
Job Title: Direct Support Professional (DSP)
Location: Roanoke, VA
Job Type: Full-Time / Part-Time / PRN (As Needed)
Schedule: Day, Evening, and Weekend Shifts Available
Pay: $20./hr
Position Summary
The Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides direct care and support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and/or behavioral health needs. The DSP assists individuals in achieving independence, improving daily living skills, participating in community activities, and maintaining health and safety in their home and community. This position requires compassion, professionalism, and a strong commitment to person-centered support.
Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities
The DSP will provide support in the following areas:
Personal Care and Daily Living Support
Assist individuals with personal hygiene, bathing, grooming, dressing, and toileting as needed
Support individuals with mobility, transfers, and safe ambulation
Provide assistance with meals, feeding, and following dietary guidelines
Assist with housekeeping tasks such as laundry, cleaning, and organizing living spaces
Support individuals in completing daily routines and maintaining a structured schedule
Community Support and Engagement
Assist individuals with participating in community outings and activities
Provide transportation to appointments, shopping, recreational events, and social activities
Support skill-building activities such as money management, communication, and social skills
Promote independence while ensuring safety and supervision
Health and Safety Monitoring
Monitor for changes in behavior, mood, physical condition, or overall health
Follow individual safety plans and risk management protocols
Provide medication reminders or medication administration (if trained and authorized)
Respond appropriately to emergencies and follow agency procedures
Maintain a safe environment and report hazards immediately
Documentation and Communication
Complete daily progress notes, shift summaries, and required documentation accurately and on time
Report incidents, injuries, or unusual events to supervisors promptly
Communicate professionally with families, guardians, supervisors, and healthcare providers
Maintain confidentiality and follow HIPAA guidelines
Behavioral Support
Implement behavior support plans as trained
Use positive reinforcement strategies to encourage appropriate behavior
Assist with de-escalation techniques and ensure safety during challenging behaviors
Provide supervision to prevent elopement, self-harm, or unsafe actions
Minimum Qualifications
Must be at least 18 years of age
High School Diploma or GED required
Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation
Ability to pass a background check, driving record check, and drug screening
Ability to lift, transfer, or assist individuals up to 50 lbs (with or without accommodations)
Must have strong communication and teamwork skills
Preferred Qualifications
Previous experience working with individuals with IDD, autism, mental health needs, or elderly populations
CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)
Medication Aide certification (preferred if applicable)
Experience with behavior plans and person-centered services
Required Skills and Competencies
Compassion, patience, and dependability
Strong ability to follow care plans and agency policies
Ability to remain calm in stressful situations
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Professionalism and respect for individuals’ dignity and rights
Contact:
Susie Houghton. Program Manager
703-851-1435