Direct Support Professional (DSP) - Day Program Services

Southwest Center of Kentucky; Louisville (KY); On-site; USD 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical Insurance

Paid Time Off (PTO)

401(k) Retirement Plan

Short‑Term Disability

Long‑Term Disability

Job summary

Southwest Center of Kentucky is seeking dependable Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) in Louisville to assist adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The role involves providing individualized support and promoting participant independence and community involvement.

This full-time position offers various shift options, including Monday through Friday schedules. Benefits include medical insurance, paid time off, and a 401(k) plan. Ideal candidates will possess a high school diploma or GED and related experience.

Qualifications

• Professional experience supporting individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities preferred.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Successful completion of criminal background check and pre-employment drug testing.

Responsibilities

• Providing direct support based on individualized service plans.
• Assisting with personal care, mobility, hygiene, feeding, and communication.
• Encouraging participation in recreational and community-based activities.

Skills

Compassionate support

Communication

Teamwork

Documentation

Problem-solving

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Southwest Center is seeking dependable and compassionate Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to support adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in a structured day services environment. DSPs play an important role in promoting independence, community participation, personal growth, health, and overall well‑being for the individuals we support. This position involves assisting participants throughout the day with individualized supports, skill development, community involvement, personal care needs, and maintaining a safe and positive environment.

Work Schedule

• Monday through Friday

Shift Options

• 7:30 AM - 4:00 PM
• 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
• Some holiday hours may be required based on program operations

Employment Classification

• Full‑Time
• Non‑Exempt

Employee Benefits

• Medical Insurance
• Dental & Vision Coverage
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Wellness Program
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Employer‑Paid Basic Life Insurance
• Voluntary Life Insurance
• Short‑Term Disability
• Long‑Term Disability
• Group Accident Coverage
• Critical Illness Coverage
• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Paid Holidays

Qualifications

• Possess a high school diploma or GED
• Professional experience supporting individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities preferred
• Successfully complete all required agency and regulatory training requirements
• Maintain required certifications, including CPR and First Aid
• Be able to follow written and verbal instructions
• Pass criminal background screening
• Successfully complete pre‑employment and random drug testing
• Hold a valid driver’s license with acceptable driving history
• Maintain current automobile insurance coverage

Primary Responsibilities

• Providing direct support based on individualized service plans and participant needs
• Assisting with personal care, mobility, hygiene, feeding, communication, and daily living support when applicable
• Supporting participants in reaching personal goals and increasing independence
• Encouraging participation in recreational, social, and community‑based activities
• Maintaining accurate daily documentation, data tracking, and service notes
• Assisting with medication administration after successful completion of required training
• Promoting participant dignity, choice, rights, and self‑advocacy
• Assisting with meal and lunch preparation as needed
• Participating in team meetings, trainings, and staff development activities
• Contributing ideas and support for engaging and meaningful participant activities
• Maintaining a safe, clean, and supportive program environment
• Working cooperatively with coworkers, supervisors, leadership, and interdisciplinary teams
• Following agency attendance expectations, policies, and procedures

Workplace Expectations

Employees are expected to maintain professionalism, promote teamwork, communicate respectfully, and contribute positively to the work environment while ensuring quality supports for individuals receiving services.

Southwest Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers all qualified applicants without regard to protected status under applicable federal, state, or local laws.