Our Own Lives does more than simply provide services - we are dedicated to changing the status quo. For too long, people with disabilities have been denied access to our broader society and have endured decades of explicit and implicit segregation. Our Own Lives is dedicated to building equity, autonomy, and access to live truly fulfilling and integrated lives, and we need passionate people to further this cause. If you are an advocate, have lived experience, or have a passion for justice, we want to hear from you!
We are seeking compassionate and dedicated Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to join our team. As a DSP, you will play a crucial role in supporting individuals with disabilities to lead fulfilling lives. You will assist in their daily activities, provide emotional support, and help them achieve personal goals. This role requires patience, empathy, and a commitment to enhancing the quality of life for those we serve.
This position is full-time at an hourly rate of $17.93 with benefits: medical, dental, vision and AFLAC for purchase; paid life insurance and Employee Assistance Program; 401K participation; CAL (PTO); paid holidays. Interested in applying? Please apply on our website at https://www.ourownlives.org/careers by August 24, 2026.
Title: Direct Support Professional II
Reports To: Adult Services Program Manager
FLSA: Hourly/Non-Exempt Full Time
Job Description: The Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides individualized support to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), on their terms, in a variety of settings. DSPS at all time work to empower the person, provide them with information to make informed decisions, and provide support consistent with their wishes to live, work and play in their communities. The Direct Support Professional can be expected to work in a variety of settings, including in residences, in the community, at the person’s workplace, and at day service settings.
Services and Supports may include assistance with acquisition, retention or improvement in life skills, self-help, social and friendship connections, leadership and advocacy training, and adaptive skills. HCBS Services that are typically performed under the position include: Specialized habilitation; supported community connection; homemaker, personal care, mentorship, respite, residential and vocational services.
Responsibilities:
- At all times uphold the mission, vision, and values of Our Own Lives.
- Adherence to State regulations and service definitions;
- Insure policies and procedures for OOL are followed;
- Understand and implement the Service Plan of persons receiving services. Participate in the assessment of people as requested;
- Understand and implement all Individual Service & Support Plans (ISSP) as identified in the service plan;
- Understand and follow any client specific protocols, rights suspensions or safety control procedures;
- Assist in personal care when needed. This may include, but is not limited to bathing, use of the toilet, changing undergarments, dressing, etc.;
- Recognize potential health and safety hazards for all participants and other staff during activities and take the necessary steps to avoid them. Understand emergency protocols for communication and response to emergencies for all service locations in the community, at the day program base site, and while in the residential setting;
- Provide opportunity for community involvement and promote independence;
- Transport individuals to activities as needed using company owned vehicles or staff owned vehicles. Follow proper procedures to record information for company owned vehicles utilizing the provided checklist or informing your supervisor;
- Complete necessary housekeeping tasks each shift;
- Complete required trainings within 90-day period;
- Administer medications appropriately and accurately once Medication Certified;
- Attend meetings when required;
- Maintain appropriate paperwork assuring proper documentation is completed by the end of every shift;
- Encourage individuals to participate in community;
- Complete all required paperwork in a timely manner;
- Turn in completed timesheet and mileage sheets accurately and timely;
- Maintain communication with Supervisor and administrative staff;
- Work with others in a positive manner in a team oriented environment;
- Work with minimal supervision and to recognize situations where assistance is needed;
- Perform duties and conduct interactions with agency staff, persons served, and the public in a manner consistent with OOL values;
- Deal with stress and stressful situations in an effective, productive manner;
- Promote and maintain appropriate professional and ethical relationships;
- Must accommodate any shift needs as they change, according to availability from application;
- Complete other tasks as delegated;
- Any and all reasonable duties as assigned.
Core Competencies:
- Compassion
- Command skills
- Composure
- Dealing with paradox
- Integrity and trust
- Listening
- Motivating Others
- Patience
- Use of resources
Knowledge and Abilities:
- Ability to work independently
- Good organizational and writing skills
- Knowledge of community activities
- Computer skills
- Strong oral and written communication skills
- Ability to be a team player
- Flexible and be able to work with minimal supervision.
- Reliable transportation
- Ability to commute for business, when needed. If driving, must possess a drivers’ license in the state they reside and current auto insurance.
- Satisfactory completion of all background checks and references, including Motor Vehicle Record is required.***
Minimum Qualifications: High School Diploma or GED
Physical Demands of the Job: These essential tasks may be performed with or without accommodations, or with assistive technology. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to be stationary, move indoors and within the community, position self, use objects, communicate verbally, in writing, and via in-person, computer and phone, and observe. The employee may be required to lift heavy weights up to and over 50 lbs. such as assisting and transferring individuals independently, two man, or with adaptive equipment from wheelchairs, beds, showers, etc. The employee may be required to travel independently or with passengers to meetings, training, and other community activities. Our Own Lives is an Equal Opportunity Employer
***Please consult Human Resources for questions regarding specific criminal convictions and/or traffic violations that may preclude employment.
