Direct Support Professional

HOUSING ADVOCACY VOCATIONAL AND EMP; Silver Spring (MD); On-site; USD 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Housing Advocacy Vocational and Employment (HAVE) in Gaithersburg, MD is seeking a compassionate Direct Support Professional to provide personalized care and support to individuals with disabilities. You will help with daily living, ISPs, transport to appointments, and skill development while collaborating with care teams and families.

The role emphasizes person-centered care, empowerment, and building meaningful connections within a supportive team and community.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Prior experience in direct support, caregiving, or human services preferred.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
• Ability to pass a background check and drug screening.
• CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).
• Strong communication, patience, and problem-solving skills.
• Genuine commitment to advocacy and empowering individuals with disabilities.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct care and daily living support to individuals with IDD
• Assist clients with personal hygiene, meal preparation, and household tasks to promote independence
• Implement individualized support plans (ISPs) and document progress accurately
• Transport and accompany clients to medical appointments, community activities, and vocational programs
• Support individuals in developing social, communication, and life skills
• Respond to behavioral and medical needs in a calm, professional manner
• Collaborate with supervisors, families, and care teams to ensure quality person-centered care

Skills

Communication

Patience

Problem-solving

Empathy

Team collaboration

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

About the Role:

Housing Advocacy Vocational and Employment is looking for a compassionate and dedicated Direct Support Professional to join our team in Gaithersburg, MD. In this rewarding role, you'll make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities by providing personalized care and support. If you're passionate about empowering others and building genuine connections, we want to hear from you!

Responsibilities:

• Provide direct care and daily living support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD)


• Assist clients with personal hygiene, meal preparation, and household tasks to promote independence


• Implement individualized support plans (ISPs) and document progress accurately


• Transport and accompany clients to medical appointments, community activities, and vocational programs


• Support individuals in developing social, communication, and life skills


• Respond to behavioral and medical needs in a calm, professional manner


• Collaborate with supervisors, families, and care teams to ensure quality person-centered care

Requirements:

• High school diploma or GED required


• Prior experience in direct support, caregiving, or human services preferred


• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation


• Ability to pass a background check and drug screening


• CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)


• Strong communication, patience, and problem-solving skills


• Genuine commitment to advocacy and empowering individuals with disabilities

About Us:

Housing Advocacy Vocational and Employment (HAVE) is a dedicated human services organization based in Gaithersburg, MD, committed to supporting individuals with disabilities in living fulfilling, independent lives. Our clients trust us to provide compassionate, high-quality care that respects their dignity and promotes their growth. Our team members love working here because of our supportive culture, meaningful mission, and the real impact they make every single day.