Direct Support Professional

didlakecareers

Woodbridge (VA)

On-site

USD 28,000 - 42,000

Full time

3 days ago

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Benefits offered by this job

Health coverage for you and family

Life Insurance/AD&D

Disability Insurance

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

401(k) retirement plan with company  匹

Paid time off and sick leave

Employee Development Program (EDP)

Paid holidays

Direct deposit

Job summary

Didlake, Inc. is seeking a Direct Support Professional to empower individuals with disabilities to build independence and participate in their communities.

You will provide direct support per ISPs, track progress, and maintain schedules while assisting with daily transitions and personal care. Qualifications include a High School Diploma or GED and at least one year of relevant experience; a valid driver’s license and ability to drive a 15-passenger van are required.

Qualifications

High school diploma or GED required.
One year of experience working with individuals with disabilities required.
Eligible to work in the U.S.; valid driver’s license and insurability under Didlake’s auto policy (ages 25+, 3 years licensed).

Responsibilities

Provide direct support to individuals with disabilities per ISPs.
Monitor and document daily progress toward ISP goals.
Maintain daily schedules of training, activities, and skills.
Assist with daily transitions, personal care, health needs, and medication management.

Skills

Driver's license

Documentation

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Physical assistance

Person-centered care

Dependability

Inclusion advocacy

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

$250.00 SIGN ON BONUS. Paid in increments of $125.00 (30 days and 90 days)

Didlake, Inc. is a non-profit rehabilitation services organization. At Didlake, creating opportunities that enrich the lives of people with disabilities is our mission. Since 1965, Didlake has served thousands of people with significant disabilities by providing training, job placement, employment opportunities, and day support services. We provide rewarding and purposeful work.

Why This Role Matters

The Direct Support Professional (Program Services Assistant) plays a vital role in empowering individuals with disabilities to build independence, develop life skills, and actively engage with their communities. By providing direct support, guidance, and encouragement, this role helps individuals achieve their personal goals as outlined in their Individual Service Plans (ISPs). The Direct Support Professional contributes to a supportive and inclusive environment that promotes dignity, choice, and community integration while ensuring services align with Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) standards.

What You Will Do

Direct Support & Daily Services

Provide direct support to individuals with disabilities in accordance with Individual Service Plans (ISPs).
Monitor and document daily progress toward ISP goals and outcomes.
Maintain daily schedules of training, activities, and skill-building opportunities.
Assist with daily transitions, personal care, health needs, and medication management, including physical assistance as needed.

Skill Development & Advocacy

Develop and implement skill-building and recreational activities that promote independence and personal growth.
Encourage community relationships and support meaningful engagement.
Advocate for individuals’ rights, ensuring respect, dignity, and freedom from coercion or restraint.

Communication & Coordination

Communicate regularly with Program Services Specialists and Program Managers regarding progress, achievements, incidents, or concerns.

Community Integration & Compliance

Transport and support individuals during community-based activities, including volunteer, educational, and recreational outings.
Deliver services in compliance with HCBS regulations, ensuring:
- Community integration and access to resources
- Individual choice and person-centered planning
- Respect for privacy, independence, and dignity
- Opportunities for autonomy and decision-making

Safety & Training

Follow safety protocols, including use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
Maintain a clean and safe environment by disinfecting program sites and vehicles daily.
Complete and maintain all required Didlake training.

What You Bring

Experience supporting individuals with disabilities in educational, caregiving, healthcare, or human services settings, such as a paraprofessional, instructional assistant, special education professional, caregiver, CNA, or home health aide, along with a commitment to helping individuals with disabilities achieve greater independence and community inclusion.

Education & Experience

High School Diploma or GED required.
One (1) year of experience working with individuals with disabilities is required.

Skills & Abilities

Must be eligible to work in the U.S.
Valid driver’s license and insurability under Didlake’s automobile policy required (at least 25 years of age with three (3) years of licensed driving experience).
Ability to drive a passenger van with capacity of up to 15 people.
Must successfully pass background checks in accordance with DBHDS and DSS requirements.
Ability to provide physical assistance including positioning, lifting, and supporting individuals during daily activities.
Passion for supporting individuals with disabilities and promoting independence and inclusion.
Collaborative mindset and ability to work effectively with supervisors, team members, and individuals served.
Strong communication and documentation skills.
Commitment to person-centered practices and advocacy for individual rights.
Ability to present a positive, professional image to individuals served, coworkers, and the public.
Ability to follow safety procedures and maintain compliance with program and regulatory requirements.