Direct Support Professional (DSP), Community Participation Supports

Ucp-Central-P; Mechanicsburg (Cumberland County); On-site; USD 35,000 - 37,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Sign-on bonus

Paid training & certs

Job summary

UCP Central PA is seeking a Direct Support Professional to empower adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in community participation. This Mechanicsburg-based role offers full-time hours, on-site work, and on-the-job training, with a $1,000 sign-on bonus and competitive hourly pay.

Responsibilities include supporting daily living, communication, and planning social activities, while documenting progress and collaborating with families and supervisors to ensure safety and

Qualifications

• Entry level position with on-the-job training.
• Valid driver’s license and 6 months driving experience required.
• Must be 18 years or older.
• Access to a vehicle with insurance, registration, and inspection.
• Ability to communicate in English.
• Preferred: experience as DSP, caregiver, or direct care worker.
• Knowledge of individuals with IDD and/or autism preferred.

Responsibilities

• Encourage independence, self-advocacy, and daily decisions.
• Provide support with daily living skills, personal care, and hygiene.
• Build relationships through thoughtful, effective communication.
• Follow individualized support plans and document progress.
• Assist with adaptive equipment, therapies, and skill-building activities.
• Help plan and participate in social, recreational, and community experiences.
• Collaborate with team members, families, and supervisors to ensure a safe, supportive environment.

Skills

Driver's license

6 months driving experience

English language

Entry level

Job description

Overview

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

• Current Open Schedules:
  • Full-time 30+ - Monday -Friday 8:00 am-3:00 pm
  • Full-time 30+ - Monday- Friday 8:30 am- 3:30 pm
• Location: Mechanicsburg
• Pay: $17.00 per hour, up to $17.75 per hour with NADSP DSP certification(s)
• Sign-On Bonus: $1,000

What We’re Looking For:

• Entry level, training provided
• A valid driver’s license and 6 months driving experience
• 18 years of age
• Access to a vehicle with valid insurance, registration, and inspection
• Ability to communicate, read, write, and understand the English language
• Preferred: Previous Personal Care Aide, Caregiver, Direct Support Professional (DSP), or Direct Care Worker experience
• Preferred: Knowledge of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and/or autism

As a DSP (Direct Support Professional) in Community Participation Supports, you’ll help adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities build independence, confidence, and meaningful connections. You’ll support individuals as they make choices, learn new skills, and engage in enriching activities both on-site and out in the community.

What You’ll Do:

• Encourage independence, self-advocacy, and everyday decision-making
• Provide support with daily living skills, personal care, and hygiene
• Build strong relationships through thoughtful, effective communication
• Follow individualized support plans and document progress
• Assist with adaptive equipment, therapies, and skill-building activities
• Help plan and participate in social, recreational, and community experiences
• Collaborate with team members, families, and supervisors to ensure a safe, supportive environment

Why UCP?

• Welcomes both entry level and experienced individuals.
• Paid training and certifications including; CPR, First Aid, and Medication Administration.
• Opportunities for advancement through our Pathfinder Program or within our growing organization.
• Same day pay available through Tapcheck
• Comprehensive benefits may include, Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement with Company Match, Paid Time Off (PTO), and more!
• Eligible for Federal Student Loan Forgiveness
• Inclusive culture that values feedback, individuality, and employee recognition
• Refer & earn $1,000!

UCP Central PA is committed to being an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and offers opportunities to all job seekers, including job seekers with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation to assist with your job search or application for employment, please contact us by sending an email to [e-mail].