Direct Support Professional (DSP) - Day Program Services

Southwest Center; Louisville (KY); On-site; USD 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical Insurance

401(k) Retirement Plan

Paid Time Off

Employee Assistance Program

Short-Term Disability

Job summary

Southwest Center is seeking dependable Direct Support Professionals in Louisville, Kentucky to assist adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. You'll play a key role in promoting their independence and well-being.

This full-time position offers various employee benefits including medical insurance, a 401(k) retirement plan, paid time off, and more. Ideal candidates will have a high school diploma and experience working with individuals with disabilities.

Qualifications

• Professional experience supporting individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities preferred.
• Maintain required certifications, including CPR and First Aid.
• Hold a valid driver's license with acceptable driving history.

Responsibilities

• Providing direct support based on individualized service plans.
• Assisting with personal care and daily living support.
• Encouraging participation in recreational and community activities.
• Maintaining accurate daily documentation.
• Promoting participant dignity, choice, and rights.

Skills

Compassion

Ability to follow instructions

Teamwork

Communication

Time management

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

Eligible employees may receive access to:

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

Qualifications

• Possess a high school diploma or GED
• Have 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 screenings
• 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.