Direct Support Professional - Day Program | Spartanburg, SC

Charles-Lea-Center; Lawson (SC); On-site; USD 23,000 - 26,000; Full time

Job summary

The Charles Lea Center in Spartanburg, SC seeks compassionate Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) for its Day Program. You will help individuals with disabilities develop life skills, participate in meaningful activities, and gain greater independence in a supportive environment.

Responsibilities include assisting with personal care, promoting community engagement, and facilitating structured activities while maintaining safety and dignity.

Qualifications

• Minimum age: 18
• High school diploma or equivalent
• 2-4 years of relevant experience preferred (DSP, CNA, PCA, RBT, Med Tech, Caregiver)
• Minimum 1 year of Direct Support Professional experience preferred.
• Valid driver’s license and Social Security number
• Basic computer and documentation skills
• Ability to pass required background and reference checks

Responsibilities

• Assist individuals with personal care needs, including hygiene, grooming, and medication administration as assigned.
• Encourage community participation, social interaction, and the development of life and employment-related skills.
• Promote independence, self-advocacy, and dignity through positive, person-centered support.

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Make a Difference Every Day – Join the Charles Lea Center as a Direct Support Professional

Do you have a heart for helping others and a passion for making a meaningful impact? At the Charles Lea Center in Spartanburg, SC, we're looking for compassionate, energetic individuals to join our team as Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) in our Day Program. In this rewarding role, you'll help individuals with disabilities develop life skills, participate in meaningful activities, build community connections, and achieve greater independence in a supportive, engaging environment. Every day is an opportunity to encourage growth, foster inclusion, and make a positive difference in the lives of those we serve.

WhatWe Offer:

• Competitive Pay: $17.51
• Consistent schedule: 1st shift weekday
• Paid training and growth opportunities

Outstanding Benefits:

• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Paid time off (PTO)
• Sick Leave
• Tuition reimbursement
• Free onsite wellness clinic

About the Role:

As a Direct Support Professional (DSP) in our Day Program, you will support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in a structured, engaging environment that promotes independence, personal growth, and community inclusion. You will play a key role in helping individuals build skills, participate in meaningful activities, and achieve their personal goals.

Key Responsibilities:

Individual Support

• Assist individuals with personal care needs, including hygiene, grooming, and medication administration as assigned.
• Encourage community participation, social interaction, and the development of life and employment-related skills.
• Promote independence, self-advocacy, and dignity through positive, person-centered support.

Day Program Activities

• Provide classroom structure and facilitate activities that support individual training objectives.
• Develop and maintain a monthly activity and community outing calendar.
• Participate in recreational, educational, and therapeutic activities designed to enhance skill development and engagement.
• Actively interact with individuals to provide meaningful, enriching classroom experiences each day.
• Complete required assessments and participate in meetings regarding individual progress and support plans.
• Communicate with parents, guardians, or caregivers regarding scheduled community outings and obtain necessary awareness and consent prior to outings.
• Assist with morning and afternoon bus duties as assigned.

Documentation & Compliance

• Maintain accurate, timely, and well-written documentation, including attendance records, training objectives, and meal counts, in accordance with DDSN requirements.
• Remain current on all required trainings and comply with agency policies and procedures.
• Administer medications as assigned and according to established guidelines.

Classroom & Program Support

• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized classroom and work environment.
• Ensure the well-being, accountability, and safety of individuals served throughout the program day.
• Support a positive team environment focused on quality services and meaningful outcomes for individuals.

What You’ll Need:

• Minimum age: 18
• Minimum age: 18
• High school diploma or equivalent
• 2-4 years of relevant experience preferred (DSP, CNA, PCA, RBT, Med Tech, Caregiver)
• Minimum 1 year of Direct Support Professional experience preferred.
  
• Valid driver’s license and Social Security number
• Basic computer and documentation skills
• Ability to pass required background and reference checks
  

Physical Requirements: This role involves regular standing, walking, lifting (up to 50 lbs), and hands-on support. Reasonable accommodations are available.

Work Location Flexibility: While this position is assigned to our Day Program location, All Direct Support Professionals may be required to work at other Charles Lea Center sites as needed based on staffing and operational needs.

Charles Lea Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Reasonable accommodations are available for qualified individuals with disabilities throughout the application process.