Direct Support Professional (DSP) - East County

San Diego State University; La Mesa (CA); On-site; USD 29,000 - 34,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Health and Dental Benefits

Paid training and professional develop

Mileage reimbursement

Opportunities for advancement

Paid sick leave

Job summary

Almost Family is hiring Direct Support Professionals (DSP) to provide one-on-one support to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in their homes and in the community across La Mesa, Santee, and surrounding area.

This part-time role offers meaningful work, the potential to move into full-time, and a competitive hourly pay of $21–$25. Benefits include health and dental coverage, paid training, mileage reimbursement, and opportunities for advancement.

Qualifications

• 18 years of age or older
• High school diploma or GED or equivalent
• Ability to pass DOJ/FBI Live Scan background clearance
• Valid California driver’s license and reliable transportation
• Ability to use a smartphone or tablet for documentation
• CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)

Responsibilities

• Provide person-centered support aligned with each individual’s IPP
• Assist with independent living skills such as cooking, cleaning, budgeting, shopping
• Support community participation including social activities, employment supports, appointments, recreation, volunteering
• Assist with personal care as authorized (hygiene, grooming, mobility)
• Follow behavior support and safety plans
• Complete daily documentation, goal tracking notes, and incident reports
• Communicate professionally with supervisors and team members
• Maintain confidentiality and uphold client rights

Skills

Background clearance

Driver's license

Smartphone/Tablet literacy

CPR/First Aid

Live Scan background check

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Direct Support Professional (DSP) – Supported Living Services (SLS) & Community Living

Company: Almost Family

Location: La Mesa, Santee, Alpine, East County

Job Type: Part-Time with the ability to move into full time.

Compensation: $21.00 – $25.00 per hour (DOE)

Status: Non-Exempt (Hourly)

About Almost Family

Almost Family has been providing compassionate, person-centered care since 1984. We support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in living independently in their own homes and communities.

Our Self Determination program in San Diego focuses on dignity, independence, safety, and meaningful community engagement. We believe care should feel personal because at Almost Family, the people we support are truly part of our extended family.

Position Summary

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides one-on-one support to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in their homes and in the community. DSPs help individuals build independent living skills, achieve personal goals, and participate fully in their communities.

This role is ideal for compassionate, reliable individuals who want meaningful work that makes a difference every day.

Essential Responsibilities

• Provide person-centered support aligned with each individual’s Individual Program Plan (IPP)
• Assist with independent living skills (cooking, cleaning, budgeting, grocery shopping, scheduling, organization)
• Support community participation including social activities, employment supports, appointments, recreation, and volunteering
• Assist with personal care as authorized (hygiene, grooming, mobility support)
• Follow behavior support and safety plans
• Accurately complete daily documentation, goal tracking notes, and incident reports
• Communicate professionally with supervisors and team members
• Maintain confidentiality and uphold client rights at all times

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

• 18 years of age or older
• High school diploma or GED
• Ability to pass DOJ/FBI Live Scan background clearance
• Valid California driver’s license, reliable transportation, and proof of insurance (if driving is required)
• Ability to use a smartphone or tablet for documentation
• Reliable, punctual, and professional
• CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)

Preferred

• Experience as a DSP, caregiver, behavioral aide, or in-home support provider
• Experience supporting individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities
• Bilingual a plus

Compensation & Benefits

• $21.00 – $25.00 per hour (based on experience)
• Paid sick leave per state and local regulations
• Mileage reimbursement (if applicable)
• Paid training and professional development
• Opportunities for advancement
• Health and Dental Benefits

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Work takes place in client homes and community settings
• May include evenings, weekends, or holiday shifts depending on client needs
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and lift up to 25–50 lbs (assignment dependent)
• Reasonable accommodations provided in accordance with the ADA

Equal Employment Opportunity

Almost Family CA, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, sexual orientation), national origin, ancestry, age, disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, military/veteran status, or any other protected status under federal, state, or local law.

Employment is at-will.