Job Title: Direct Support Professional (DSP) – Autism Waiver Therapeutic Integration Center
Job Summary
Minders Community Services is seeking a compassionate, dependable, and experienced DSP to provide one-on-one in-home and community support to a young individual with a developmental disability.The DSP will assist with communication, daily routines, safety awareness, community participation, and independence-building. Responsibilities include close supervision, skill-building, prompting, personal assistance, and implementation of the individual’s ISP. The client has significant safety needs, including elopement, seizures, falls, self-injurious behavior, aspiration risk, and limited safety awareness.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide direct support to individuals with autism in accordance with their Individual Plan (IP) and behavior support strategies
- Assist with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) as needed, including personal hygiene, toileting, feeding, and mobility support
- Implement therapeutic and behavioral interventions as outlined in individualized support plans
- Facilitate structured daily activities, including life skills training, social skills development, and community integration outings
- Support individuals in achieving personal goals related to independence, communication, and social interaction
- Monitor and document daily activities, progress notes, and behavioral data accurately in systems such as Therap
- Ensure the health and safety of all individuals by following established policies, procedures, and emergency protocols
- Assist with meal preparation and ensure dietary needs and restrictions are followed
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe program environment
- Communicate effectively with supervisors, team members, and families regarding participant progress and concerns
Qualifications & Requirements
- Experience supporting individuals with developmental disabilities or autism
- Ability to manage challenging behaviors calmly and professionally
- CPR/First Aid certification
- Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation
- Ability to complete required Virginia DSP training and background checks
- Dependable, patient, attentive, and committed to client safety
- Experience with seizure response, elopement prevention, communication support, and behavior plans is strongly preferred.
Work Environment & Schedule
- Picking up and drop off of individuals
- Therapeutic day program / community-based setting
- May include community outings and activities
- Schedule may vary based on program needs (daytime hours, with occasional flexibility required)
Why Join Us?
Join a team dedicated to empowering individuals with autism to live more independent and fulfilling lives. We offer a supportive work environment, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to make a meaningful impact every day.
Pay: $18.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
