The Lead Direct Support Professional (Lead DSP) provides direct care and support to individuals while leading daily programming, staff support, and participant engagement in both facility-based and community settings. This role ensures high-quality, person-centered services that promote independence, dignity, inclusion, and meaningful participation.
The Lead DSP plans, coordinates, and oversees social, recreational, and community-based activities designed to enhance individuals’ quality of life. This position also serves as a mentor and resource to Direct Support Professional (DSP) staff, supporting program implementation and fostering a collaborative, team-oriented environment.
Direct Support and Individual Services
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Provide direct care and support based on each participant’s individual needs, goals, interests, and abilities
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Promote an environment that encourages independence, dignity, personal choice, and self-expression
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Establish and maintain positive, respectful relationships with participants and their support teams
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Support participation in community-based activities, volunteer opportunities, and social outings
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Assist with daily living activities, social development, and skill-building opportunities
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Accompany participants to community activities and provide transportation as needed
Program Coordination & Activities
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Develop, coordinate, and implement recreational and activity programs (e.g., arts, fitness, social, and community-based activities)
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Plan and coordinate outings, field trips, and community experiences
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Encourage participant engagement and involvement in all programming
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Social stimulation
- Physical exercise
- Community and family interaction
- Constructive and productive use of time
- Maintain knowledge of community resources and opportunities
Leadership & Staff Support
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Serve as lead staff by providing day-to-day guidance, support, and direction to DSP team members
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Assist with staff scheduling, workflow coordination, and daily operations as assigned
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Support onboarding and training of new staff on procedures, documentation, and best practices
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Model professionalism, teamwork, and person-centered service delivery
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Communicate program updates, concerns, and incidents to the Community Services Manager
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Collaborate with Support Service Administrators (SSAs) and interdisciplinary teams
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Complete accurate and timely documentation, including daily notes, activity records, and participant information
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Maintain organized records related to programming, resources, and supplies
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Manage calendars, schedules, and activity planning
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Follow all company policies, safety procedures, and universal precautions
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Maintain a safe environment for participants, staff, and self
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Ensure compliance with all applicable agency, state, and regulatory requirements
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High school diploma or equivalent required
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Must be at least 21 years of age
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Previous leadership experience preferred
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Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record
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Strong communication, organizational, and leadership skills
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Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
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Experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities or similar populations preferred
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Excellent computer skills, including Microsoft Office programs and email
- Minimum of four years of related experience and training preferred
- Experience managing calendars, schedules and program coordination preferred
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Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, kneel, and reach as needed
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Ability to assist individuals with mobility and daily activities
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Ability to lift and/or move up to 25 pounds
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Ability to sit or stand for extended periods
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee for this job. In addition, duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time, with or without notice.
All levels have approved this job description of management:
Manager____________________________________________________
HR_________________________________________________________
The employee signature below constitutes the employee's understanding of the requirements, essential functions, and duties of the position.
Employee__________________________________ Date_____________
