Companies: Waters Ball, B-All Unlimited
Direct Support Professional (DSP) – Level 1 and 2
Location: Pasadena and Surrounding Areas
Reports To: Lead Staff / Program Supervisor
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Salary Range:
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Level 1: $19.00 – $21.00 per hour
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Level 2: $21.00 – $24.00 per hour
(Compensation is commensurate with experience, certifications, and training completion in accordance with Title 17 and regional center funding standards.)
Potential Shifts
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6:00am-2:00pm
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2:00pm-10:00pm
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10:00pm-6:00am
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11am-7pm
Position Summary
The Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides individualized care, supervision, and training to adults with developmental disabilities in residential and community-based settings. The DSP’s primary role is to promote each person’s independence, dignity, and quality of life by implementing their Person-Centered Plan (PCP) and Behavior Support Plan (BSP) with consistency, respect, and compassion.
DSPs are instrumental in supporting individuals to live meaningful, self-directed lives while ensuring health, safety, and community integration in accordance with California Title 17 Regulations.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
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Provide direct care and supervision to consumers in all daily activities, ensuring safety and dignity.
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Implement individualized training and support plans consistent with the consumer’s PCP and BSP.
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Support consumers in natural environments, including at home, in the community, and during recreational activities.
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Document consumer progress on goals and objectives daily and maintain accurate and timely records.
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Foster social skills and communication development through natural learning opportunities and role modeling.
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Follow behavioral and clinical intervention plans as directed by supervisors and interdisciplinary team members.
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Provide personal care assistance, including hygiene, meal preparation, medication reminders, and transportation.
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Maintain a clean, organized, and safe living environment for all residents.
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Attend team meetings, supervision sessions, and all required in-service trainings.
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Ensure compliance with all agency policies, Title 17 regulations, and ethical standards of care.
Minimum Qualifications
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Education and Experience:
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At least six (6) months of prior experience providing direct care or specialized services to individuals with developmental disabilities is preferred.
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Those without prior experience must complete 12 additional hours of continuing education within six (6) months of hire.
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All DSPs must complete a minimum of 20 hours of continuing education annually to maintain compliance with Title 17.
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Licenses and Certifications:
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Valid California Driver’s License and acceptable driving record.
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Current First Aid and CPR certification.
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Health screening and TB clearance prior to employment.
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Must be fingerprint cleared through the Department of Justice and FBI. (livescan)
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Must be at least 18 years of age.
Physical Requirements and Work Environment
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Ability to lift and/or carry up to 50 pounds.
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Frequent standing, walking, bending, stooping, reaching, and kneeling.
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Must be able to assist individuals with mobility and personal care tasks as needed.
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Ability to respond quickly and calmly in emergencies and provide crisis intervention.
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Work occurs in both residential and community environments, which may include outdoor activities and exposure to variable weather conditions.
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Must maintain a professional demeanor when supporting individuals who may exhibit challenging or high-intensity behaviors.
DSP Career Levels
Level 1 – Direct Support Professional I
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Entry-level position for those with limited or no prior DSP experience.
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Works under close supervision of Lead or Senior Staff.
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Completes all initial training requirements, including CPR/First Aid, Mandt or CPI (as applicable), and 20 hours of Title 17 continuing education.
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Demonstrates reliability, empathy, and professionalism in all duties.
Level 2 – Direct Support Professional II
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Minimum one year of DSP or equivalent experience.
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Demonstrates consistent competency in implementing behavior plans and supporting community inclusion.
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Works independently with minimal supervision and provides mentorship to new staff.
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Participates in program planning, documentation review, and may assist in consumer meetings.
Core Competencies
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Compassionate and person-centered approach.
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Effective communication and teamwork.
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Professional integrity and ethical conduct.
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Adaptability and crisis management.
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Commitment to continuous learning and improvement.
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time
Pay: $19.00 - $24.00 per hour
