As a Direct Support Professional (DSP) at Arc of Acadiana, you will support individuals in our Community Group Homes, where a group of residents (generally up to 15 individuals) live together in a home-like setting. DSPs play a critical role in promoting safety, dignity, independence, and quality of life by supporting daily routines, personal care, and community involvement.
This is meaningful, hands-on work that requires reliability, compassion, and teamwork. You will receive training and ongoing support to help you succeed in the role. Direct Support Professionals must be at least 21 years of age and may be assigned to work at different residential homes as needed to support staffing and operational requirements.
Starting Pay Rate:
$13.50
Full-time and Part-time Available – Day, Evening and Night Shifts
What You’ll Do
Support Residents in Daily Life
Assist residents with activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, feeding, mobility, and personal hygiene.
Encourage independence, choice, and participation while providing appropriate supervision and support.
Support residents in building daily living, social, and functional skills based on individual plans.
Ensure Safety & Supervision
Remain with residents at all times while on duty; residents are not to be left alone.
Remain awake and alert during all assigned shifts, including overnight shifts, to take prompt and appropriate action in the event of injury, illness, fire, or other emergencies.
Follow all safety procedures, emergency protocols, and evacuation procedures as trained.
Promote the health, safety, and welfare of each resident at all times.
Health, Medication & Wellness Support
Assist with medication administration after completing required training and certification.
Observe residents for changes in health, behavior, or condition and report concerns promptly.
Follow infection control and universal precautions as trained.
Household & Sanitation Responsibilities
Prepare and serve food using appropriate utensils and portioning tools.
Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of kitchens, food preparation areas, bathrooms, and common spaces.
Ensure proper handling, storage, and disposal of food as instructed.
Assist with cleaning, laundry, and maintaining a safe and orderly home environment.
Documentation, Communication & Incident Reporting
Complete required documentation accurately and on time, including progress notes, objectives, logs, shift reports, and incident reports.
Communicate important information during shift changes to ensure continuity of care.
Promptly report incidents, injuries, medical concerns, or unusual occurrences to the Manager On-Call or Home Manager in accordance with agency procedures.
Maintain confidentiality of all resident and agency information.
Community Inclusion & Transportation
Support residents in participating in community activities, appointments, and outings as assigned.
Operate Arc of Acadiana vehicles, including vans, to transport residents as required. Driving is an essential function of this position and must be performed in accordance with agency policy.
Teamwork & Professional Conduct
Work collaboratively with Home Managers, supervisors, and fellow DSPs.
Attend required staff meetings, trainings, and in-service education.
Communicate respectfully and professionally with residents, families, coworkers, and community partners.
Training & Support You’ll Receive
Required safety and residential training
Certified Medication Administration (CMA) training within six (6) months of hire and state testing support
Ongoing guidance and support from Home Managers and leadership
What We’re Looking For
High school diploma or equivalent required
Must be at least 21 years of age
Previous experience providing direct support, caregiving, or similar work is preferred, but not required
Dependable, caring, and able to work as part of a team
Able to follow instructions and use good judgment
Good communication skills
A valid driver’s license is required when assigned to homes requiring transportation support. Driving Arc of Acadiana vehicles, including vans, may be an essential function of this position
Availability to work evenings, nights, weekends, holidays, and varying shifts as needed
Benefits & What We Offer
Competitive pay and stable scheduling
Medical, dental, and vision insurance for eligible employees
Paid time off, sick time
Retirement plan options for eligible employees
Employee assistance and wellness resources
Ongoing training and opportunities for growth
Physical Requirements
Ability to stand, walk, bend, lift, and assist residents with mobility and daily activities
Ability to remain awake and alert during assigned shifts
Ability to respond quickly and appropriately in emergency situations
Work Environment
Community Group Home residential setting
Direct interaction with residents in a shared living environment
Flexible scheduling based on program and staffing needs
