DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL

Abraxas Youth & Family Services; Wilmington (DE); On-site; USD 30,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Abraxas Youth & Family Services is seeking a Direct Support Professional (DSP) to provide compassionate support to individuals with intellectual, developmental, and behavioral health challenges. The DSP will work with an interdisciplinary team to promote wellness, safety, and meaningful daily living experiences, empowering independence and dignity.

The role emphasizes compassionate care, adherence to training, and collaboration with families and community partners to support personal growth and

Qualifications

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Active listening and compassionate communication with individuals served and families.
• Ability to document interactions and maintain confidentiality.

Responsibilities

• Assist individuals with daily living activities and personal hygiene.
• Support individuals in building independence and meaningful community involvement.
• Maintain a safe, respectful living environment and promote wellness and safety.
• Document interactions and services according to policies; report concerns and maintain confidentiality.
• Collaborate with clinical staff, families and community partners.

Skills

Communication

Active listening

Problem solving

Adaptability

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

Position Overview

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) is an essential member of our clinical care team, dedicated to providing compassionate support to individuals with intellectual, developmental, and behavioral health challenges. This role helps empower the people we serve to achieve their highest level of independence, dignity, and quality of life. Working collaboratively with an interdisciplinary team, the DSP provides personalized support that promotes wellness, safety, community involvement, personal growth, and meaningful daily living experiences. The ideal candidate is caring, patient, dependable, and committed to fostering a culture of compassion, hope, service, and collaboration.

Required Credentials

• Current CPR and First Aid Certification (or ability to obtain upon hire)
• Successful completion of all required organizational, regulatory, and contractual training
• Ability to pass a criminal background check and drug screening

Education & Experience

Required

• High School Diploma or GED

Preferred

• Previous experience supporting individuals with intellectual, developmental, or behavioral health challenges

Key Responsibilities

Client Support & Care

• Assist individuals with daily living activities, including meal preparation, housekeeping and household tasks, personal hygiene and grooming.
• Promote independence by providing support that maximizes each person's abilities and quality of life.
• Encourage and model hope, optimism, and self-confidence.
• Assist individuals in building meaningful relationships and participating in community activities.
• Create and maintain a safe, supportive, and respectful environment.

Skill Development & Supervision

• Provide supervision, guidance, and encouragement to help individuals develop life skills and increase independence.
• Observe and identify opportunities for personal growth and skill development.
• Support individuals in achieving their goals and reaching their fullest potential.

Documentation & Compliance

• Accurately document interactions, activities, and services according to organizational policies and procedures.
• Maintain confidentiality and uphold professional and ethical standards.
• Report suspected abuse, neglect, exploitation, or mistreatment in accordance with organizational and regulatory requirements.

Crisis Response & Safety

• Monitor for potential crisis situations and respond appropriately using approved interventions and best practices.
• Utilize training and professional judgment to ensure the safety and well‑being of individuals served.
• Identify and report safety, security, and health concerns promptly.
• Assist in maintaining a healthy and safe living environment.

Team Collaboration

• Work collaboratively with clinical staff, supervisors, families, and community partners.
• Participate in meetings, training, and professional development opportunities.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Communication

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively, patiently, and compassionately with individuals served, families, and team members.
• Active listening skills with the ability to assess needs and respond appropriately.

Problem Solving & Decision Making

• Ability to recognize problems and respond effectively.
• Sound judgment and ethical decision‑making skills.
• Ability to anticipate needs and develop appropriate responses and supports.

Adaptability & Organization

• Ability to adapt to changing circumstances and priorities.
• Strong time management and organizational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple responsibilities while maintaining accuracy and professionalism.

Attention to Detail

• Accurate documentation and record‑keeping.
• Ability to follow policies, procedures, and care plans consistently.

Stress Management

• Ability to remain calm and professional during emergencies or challenging situations.
• Capacity to handle difficult situations with patience, maturity, and resilience.

Physical Demands & Working Conditions

• Majority of work is performed within residential or community-based settings.
• Frequent walking, standing, sitting, bending, and driving between assigned locations.
• Travel between service sites may be required.
• May encounter stressful situations and behavioral challenges.
• May be exposed to verbal and, on occasion, physical aggression from individuals served.
• Must be able to respond appropriately to emergencies and crisis situations.

Why Join Our Team?

At our organization, we believe every individual deserves respect, opportunity, and support. As a Direct Support Professional, you will make a meaningful impact each day by helping people live more independently, build fulfilling relationships, and achieve personal success.

Join us in creating opportunities, fostering independence, and changing lives.