Direct Support Professional (DSP)
We are hiring for a Direct Support Professional (DSP) in the Pottstown area. Full‑time regular position.
Summary
The DSP plays a vital role in supporting individuals with intellectual, developmental disabilities, mental health, or substance use challenges in their home and community. The DSP implements individualized services aligned with personal goals, fosters a respectful and empowering environment, and works under supervision.
Schedule
8 a.m.–4 p.m. and 4 p.m.–midnight.
Bonus
Full‑time staff members are eligible for a $1,000 bonus paid in three increments: $250 after 90 days, $250 after 180 days, and $500 at one year.
Responsibilities
- Assist the person(s) receiving services in identifying and communicating their requests and needs for services and support.
- Promote and support a healthy lifestyle by educating on wellness practices and implementing strategies to prevent illness and accidents.
- Foster self‑advocacy and encourage individual choice and decision‑making aligned with personal goals.
- Accompany and support individuals in community activities such as work, movies, concerts, shopping, and other social outings to promote social engagement.
- Teach and support the development of independent living skills, enhancing self‑sufficiency in daily activities.
- Provide safe and reliable transportation to appointments and community engagements.
- Foster positive relationships and inclusivity within the community, encouraging integration and a sense of belonging.
- Support and guide decision‑making related to living arrangements, employment, and social relationships, respecting individual preferences.
- Assist with personal care tasks, including bathing and hygiene, as well as household chores like laundry, cleaning, and decorating, to maintain a comfortable living environment.
- Document all services provided to ensure accurate records and effective communication among support teams.
- Understand the unique challenges faced by individuals with mental health and behavioral health challenges and utilize advocacy strategies to address barriers.
- Connect individuals to resources that support career exploration, educational opportunities, volunteerism, and personal growth.
- Promote effective communication, ensuring all interactions are respectful, clear, and supportive of the individual’s needs.
- Administer medications when allowed by state regulations, following all safety and procedural guidelines.
- Maintain strict confidentiality regarding personal information, adhering to all legal and ethical standards.
- Perform additional duties as assigned and enhance service quality.
Supervisory Responsibilities
This position has no supervisory responsibilities.
Minimum Qualifications
- High School Diploma or equivalent.
- Six months experience in a related field or 12 college credits in human services.
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Meet all pre‑employment screening requirements.
- Valid driver’s license.
Physical Demands and Work Environment
- Regularly lift 30 lbs.; must be able to lift up to 40 lbs.
- Must be able to pull a minimum of 25 lbs.
- Must be able to squat, kneel, crawl, crouch, climb, and stoop.
- Must be able to use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls.
- Required to regularly stand and walk.
- Must demonstrate proficiency in CPR from the floor level; work on hands, knees, bending, standing, and lifting.
- Vision requirements include close, distance, and peripheral vision.
- Must be able to talk and hear.
Benefits
- Payactiv: early access to the money earned from hours worked before payday.
- Employee perks and discount program.
- Paid Time Off (full‑time employees only).
- Health/Insurance (full‑time employees only).
- 401(k) retirement savings program.
- Well‑being programs: Physical, emotional, and financial chronic disease management programs for qualifying employees.
- Training: free CPR, first aid, and job‑specific training opportunities.
- *Contract/contingent workers and interns do not qualify for any of the above benefits.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
RHA is an equal employment opportunity employer, prohibits discrimination based on the following protected categories: race, creed, color, national origin, nationality, ancestry, age, sex/gender, marital status, civil status, domestic partnership status, familial status, religion, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, atypical hereditary cellular or blood trait, genetic information, liability for service in the Armed Forces of the United States, or disability. RHA provides reasonable accommodation to qualified employees who have protected disabilities to the extent required by applicable laws, regulations, and ordinances. If you are an individual with a disability and need a reasonable accommodation to participate in the application process, please contact our solutions center.