Direct Support Professional (DSP)

A Helping Home; Pittsburgh (Allegheny County); On-site; USD 22,041 - 24,796; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid orientation and training

Ongoing training opportunities

Supportive supervision

Job summary

A Helping Home is seeking a Direct Support Professional (DSP) in Pittsburgh to support adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in licensed residential homes. The ideal candidate will provide person-centered support, encouraging independence, dignity, and community inclusion.

The role involves daily assistance with personal care, medication administration, and maintaining a clean living environment. Candidates must have a High School Diploma or GED and a valid driver's license. Full-time employment is offered along with training opportunities.

Qualifications

• Ability to work with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
• Strong communication skills and reliability.
• Willingness to complete required training and certifications.

Responsibilities

• Provide daily support to Individuals with activities of daily living (ADLs).
• Support Individuals in achieving goals outlined in their Individual Support Plan (ISP).
• Assist with communication and emotional regulation.

Skills

Communication

Reliability

Teamwork

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Department: Service Workers

Employment Type: Full Time

Location: Pittsburgh

Compensation: $16.00 - $18.00 / hour

Description

A Helping Home, LLC is seeking compassionate, reliable, and professional Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to support adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in licensed residential homes.

Direct Support Professionals play a critical role in assisting Individuals to live safe, meaningful, and fulfilling lives in their homes and communities. DSPs provide hands‑on support while promoting independence, dignity, choice, and community inclusion in alignment with Everyday Lives principles. This role is ideal for individuals who are dependable, patient, and committed to delivering high‑quality, person‑centered support.

Essential Responsibilities

Direct Care & Person‑Centered Support:

• Provide daily support to Individuals with activities of daily living (ADLs), including personal care, hygiene, meal preparation, and household tasks
• Support Individuals in achieving goals outlined in their Individual Support Plan (ISP)
• Promote independence, choice, and self‑advocacy in all areas of support
• Assist Individuals with communication, socialization, and emotional regulation
• Encourage participation in community activities, employment, recreation, and social events

Health, Safety & Medical Support:

• Support medication administration in accordance with training and agency policy
• Monitor Individuals for changes in health or behavior and report concerns promptly
• Assist with medical appointments and follow‑through on health‑related needs
• Ensure a safe, clean, and healthy home environment
• Follow all health, safety, and emergency procedures

Documentation & Compliance:

• Accurately document daily services, progress notes, and required records
• Ensure documentation reflects person‑centered, measurable outcomes
• Report incidents, injuries, or concerns immediately and in accordance with policy
• Maintain confidentiality of Individual records and protected health information (PHI)

Teamwork & Communication:

• Work collaboratively with House Supervisors, Leads, and other DSPs
• Communicate effectively with supervisors regarding Individual needs and concerns
• Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and required in‑services
• Follow all agency policies, procedures, and professional standards

Household & Community Responsibilities:

• Assist with maintaining a clean, organized, and welcoming home
• Support meal planning, grocery shopping, and basic budgeting as assigned
• Transport Individuals safely to appointments, activities, and community outings

Required and Preferred Qualifications , Working Environment and Expectations

Required Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or GED required
• Ability to work with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities
• Strong communication, reliability, and teamwork skills
• Willingness to complete required training and certifications
• Valid Pennsylvania Driver’s License
• Ability to pass all required background checks and clearances

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior experience as a Direct Support Professional, Caregiver, or in human services
• Experience working in a residential or community‑based setting
• Medication Administration certification (or willingness to obtain)
• Knowledge of person‑centered practices and ISP implementation

Work Environment & Expectations:

• In‑person role within residential homes
• May include evenings, weekends, holidays, and overnight shifts
• Physical ability to assist Individuals as required by the position
• Overtime and on‑call shifts may be required based on staffing needs

Training & Development:

• Paid orientation and on‑the‑job training provided
• Ongoing training opportunities to support professional growth
• Supportive supervision and coaching

Equal Opportunity Employer:

A Helping Home, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.