Assist individuals with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and Instrumental Activities
of Daily Living (IADLs) — e.g., bathing, grooming, toileting, dressing, feeding,
eating, meal preparation, housekeeping, laundry.
Support individuals to live in the community: transportation, community outings,
social/recreational activities, integration, building relationships, helping to access
jobs or volunteering.
Follow and help implement an Individual Support Plan (ISP) or service plan
tailored to each individual’s needs and goals; monitor progress and document.
Ensure health, safety and welfare of individuals: monitor for changes in health or
behavior; report incidents/unusual events; maintain safe environment.
Provide personal care assistance, supervision, and possibly medication
administration (depending on training/certification).
Maintain records and documentation: program logs, incident reports, progress
notes, housekeeping/vehicle cleaning, inventories.
Promote and uphold the rights, dignity, choice, privacy and inclusion of the
people supported.
Participate in required training, adhere to agency policies, state and federal
regulations (such as those from Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities
(DODD)).
Qualifications & Requirements
Age: At least 18 years old (some agencies may allow 16–17 under limited
scope).
High school diploma or GED (though some employers may provide training).
Clean criminal background check, drug screening.
Valid Ohio driver’s license and vehicle insurance (if role requires transportation)
and acceptable driving record.
Physical ability: lifting, transferring individuals (possibly up to ~50 lbs), bending,
reaching, kneeling, sometimes overnight and weekend shifts.
Good communication skills, dependable, able to handle stressful situations, work
as part of a team, professional conduct.
Training: CPR/First Aid, possibly medication administration, behaviour support,
community integration, person‐centered planning.
Working Conditions
May work in residential homes, group homes, day programs, or community
settings.
Schedules may include day, evening, overnight, weekends and holidays.
Some physical demands: active work, shifting, transfers, mobility, possibly using
adaptive equipment.
Emotional demands: working with individuals with disabilities, possibly
challenging behaviours, crisis situations.
Skills & Attributes
Empathy, patience, respect for individuals’ dignity and rights.
Ability to support independence and choice rather than simply “do for”.
Observational skills – noticing change in health/behaviour.
Documentation skills – accurate records.
Teamwork and communication – interacting with individuals, families,
supervisors.
Flexibility and adaptability – needs may change, community outings, changing
supports.
Why this role matters
The role of the Direct Support Professional is vital in helping individuals with disabilities lead
meaningful lives — to be included in their communities, pursue goals, build relationships, and
live in environments of their choice. According to National Alliance for Direct Support
Professionals (NADSP), DSPs are more than caregivers: they are mentors, advocates, facilitators of lives.
Pay: $15.00 - $20.00 per hour
Benefits:
Experience:
Work Location: In person
