Direct Support Professional

Lambs Farm; Libertyville (IL); On-site; USD 21,593 - 30,754; Full time

Job summary

Lambs Farm in Libertyville, IL is seeking a Direct Support Professional (DSP) who will provide compassionate care to adults with developmental disabilities. The DSP will assist in daily routines, implement personalized care plans, and promote independence in a supportive community.

The ideal candidate will possess strong communication skills, be physically capable, and have a commitment to quality care. The position offers an hourly wage of $19.00 and requires specific certifications within the first few months of employment.

Qualifications

• Must pass the Comprehensive Adult Student Assessment Systems (CASAS) test.
• Certification in the Lambs Farm DSP program required within 120 days of hire.
• Must achieve CPR, First Aid, and crisis intervention certification.

Responsibilities

• Assist participants with daily routines, fostering autonomy.
• Implement tailored care plans and track progress.
• Provide behavioral and emotional support during crises.

Skills

Compassionate care

Strong communication skills

Team collaboration

Ability to lift participants (up to 50 pounds)

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Electronic health record (EHR) systems

Job description

Join Our Mission at Lambs Farm

At Lambs Farm, we are passionately committed to enriching the lives of adults with developmental disabilities by providing them with meaningful work opportunities in a vibrant and intentional community. Our diverse facilities, including a farmyard, pet adoption center, restaurant, bakery, country store, and thrift store, delight the public while equipping our participants with crucial employment skills in a supportive environment.

Lambs Farm is a nurturing community where participants are empowered to choose their paths, from work to leisure activities, fostering self‑reliance and personal growth. It is also a place where families can teach their children about inclusivity and understanding people with disabilities.

Do you have a zest for community service, love engaging with dynamic settings, and seek to make a meaningful daily impact? Lambs Farm might just be your dream workplace. Here, we embody hard work, excellent care, and a commitment to cultivating the human spirit.

Summary

We're looking for a dedicated Direct Support Professional (DSP) to join our team in providing compassionate care for adults with developmental disabilities. The ideal candidate will assist Participants with daily living activities, implement personalized care plans, and promote independence in a supportive environment. This role requires strong communication skills, physical capability, and proficiency in digital documentation. As a DSP, you'll work collaboratively within a team to ensure the highest quality of care while accurately maintaining electronic records and adapting to the unique needs of each Participant.

The Role

• Assist participants with developmental disabilities in their daily routines, fostering autonomy and engagement
• Implement tailored care plans and track progress toward individual goals
• Provide behavioral and emotional support during crises or challenging situations
• Encourage and assist with community integration through social and recreational activities
• Administer medications, monitor health conditions, and report any changes
• Maintain accurate and prompt updates to electronic medical records
• Document incidents, participant activities, and progress within internal systems
• Collaborate with team members during meetings and care coordination sessions
• Adjust support strategies based on participant needs and team feedback
• Perform physically demanding tasks, including lifting and moving participants as required

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Must pass the Comprehensive Adult Student Assessment Systems (CASAS) test
• Must complete and achieve certification in the Lambs Farm DSP program within 120 days of hire and maintain compliance with all training and certifications necessary for the role
• Must complete and achieve certification in the Medication Administration Certification program within 160 days of hire and maintain authorization thereafter
• Must complete the Lambs Farm Rise Program and achieve Tier 2 certification as vacancies become available
• Ability to properly handle and prepare food for participants as part of daily duties
• Must be comfortable providing care for participants who may become ill and follow appropriate health and safety protocols
• Previous experience working with adults with developmental disabilities preferred
• Proficiency in writing, speaking, and understanding English
• Physically capable of lifting, moving, and assisting participants, with the ability to lift up to 50 pounds
• Must achieve CPR, First Aid, and crisis intervention certification through the Lambs Farm training program
• Valid driver's license with a clean driving record
• Strong team collaboration skills and willingness to adapt to changing needs
• Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and safeguarding participant information

Computer Skills

• Accurate typing and data entry skills
• Proficiency in navigating websites and using web-based applications
• Ability to use word processors and spreadsheet software
• Competence in managing emails and digital communications
• Familiarity with digital communication etiquette and techniques
• Experience with or ability to learn electronic health record (EHR) systems, such as Therap, Epic, or Allscripts.

Compensation

The hourly rate for this role is $19.00 per hour.

Disclaimer: As part of the pre‑employment process, all employees at Lambs Farm are required to successfully complete background and registry checks and medical screenings. These measures are in place to ensure a safe and compliant environment for everyone involved. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.

Salary: $19.00 per hour.