Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Kids for the Future; Little Falls (MN); On-site; USD 18,000 - 26,000; Full time

Job summary

Kids for the Future in Minnesota seeks a Direct Support Professional to empower individuals with intellectual disabilities to lead independent lives. You will provide compassionate daily support, assist with ADLs, administer medications as trained, and promote personal growth in a respectful environment.

The role emphasizes safety, empathy, strong communication with individuals, families, and team members, and participation in trainings and team meetings.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent is required.
• Prior experience in direct support or patient care is preferred but not required.
• Knowledge of behavior management techniques.
• Proficiency in medication administration (training provided).
• Excellent communication skills (written and verbal).
• Demonstrated empathy and patience.
• Ability to handle crisis intervention situations.

Responsibilities

• Provides direct support and assistance to individuals with ID in daily routines.
• Assists with activities of daily living (ADL) including personal hygiene, dressing, and meals.
• Adminsisters medication according to guidelines and documents accurately.
• Implements behavior management strategies to support safety and positive behavior.
• Offers patient care with empathy and respect, fostering a supportive environment.
• Provides personal care, respecting dignity and preferences.
• Uses strong communication to interact with individuals, families, and team members.
• Responds calmly to crisis intervention situations following protocols.
• Documents observations and progress timely.
• Participates in team meetings and trainings.

Skills

Direct support

Medication administration

Communication skills

Empathy

Crisis intervention

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Contact information

• Base Pay $16.00 - $16.00 / Hour
• Required Degree High school
• Manage Others No

• Phone [phone]

Description

About This Job:

As a Direct Support Professional, you play a vital role in empowering individuals with intellectual disabilities to lead fulfilling and independent lives. You directly impact their well-being by providing compassionate support and promoting their personal growth. This position offers a unique opportunity to build meaningful relationships and make a tangible difference in the lives of others.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provides direct support and assistance to individuals with ID in their daily routines and activities.
• Assists with activities of daily living (ADL), including personal hygiene, dressing, and meal preparation.
• Administers medication according to prescribed guidelines and documents accurately.
• Implements behavior management strategies to support positive behavior and ensure safety.
• Offers patient care with empathy and respect, fostering a supportive and encouraging environment.
• Provides personal care assistance, respecting individual dignity and preferences.
• Utilizes strong communication skills to effectively interact with individuals, families, and team members.
• Responds to crisis intervention situations calmly and effectively, following established protocols.
• Documents observations and progress accurately and timely.
• Actively participates in team meetings and training sessions.

Requirements

Required Qualifications:

Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent.

Experience:

• Prior experience in direct support, patient care, or a related field is preferred, not required

Knowledge/Skills:

• Knowledge of behavior management techniques.
• Proficiency in medication administration (training provided).
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Demonstrated empathy and patience.
• Ability to handle crisis intervention situations.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working with individuals with intellectual disabilities (ID).

Physical Requirements/Work Conditions:

• Ability to stand, walk, and bend for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and transfer individuals as needed (with training and proper equipment).
• Ability to work in a variety of settings, including residential homes and community environments.
• Must be able to pass a DHS background check

Summary

About This Job: As a Direct Support Professional, you will empower individuals with intellectual disabilities to live fulfilling and independent lives by providing direct support and compassionate care. This role involves assisting with daily living activities, administering medication, implementing behavior management strategies, and offering empathetic patient care. Strong communication skills, patience, and the ability to handle crisis situations are essential.

Responsibilities and Requirements: Key responsibilities include assisting with personal hygiene, meal preparation, and documenting observations. A high school diploma or equivalent is required. Prior experience in direct support or patient care is preferred but not required. You must be able to stand, walk, and bend for extended periods, and lift/transfer individuals as needed (with training). Passing a DHS background study is mandatory.