DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL-HOURLY

Apis Services, Inc.; Parsippany-Troy Hills (NJ); On-site; USD 20,664 - 30,307; Full time

Job summary

Advancing Opportunities, Inc. is seeking compassionate Direct Support Professionals (DSP) to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in New Jersey.

You will assist with daily living activities, promote independence, and help individuals participate in community programs. Responsibilities include implementing ISPs/IHPs, monitoring progress, administering medications per policy, and maintaining accurate records.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED is required.

Responsibilities

• Assist individuals with activities of daily living and personal care.
• Implement ISPs, IHPs and BSPs; monitor progress toward goals.
• Administer medications per agency policies and trainings.
• Transport individuals to appointments and community activities.
• Maintain timely and accurate documentation and HIPAA compliance.

Skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Trauma-informed care

Organization

Documentation

Time management

Independence

Team collaboration

Experience in IDD/human services

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Associate's or Bachelor's in Human Services/Psychology/Social Work or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

Electronic documentation systems

Email

Job description

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Residential Services (IDD)

Location: New Jersey

Department: Residential Services

Reports To: Residential Manager

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Schedule: Full-Time & Part-Time Opportunities Available – Day, Evening, Overnight, Weekend & Holiday Shifts

Make a Difference Every Day

Advancing Opportunities is seeking compassionate and dedicated Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in achieving greater independence, community involvement, and personal success.

As a DSP, you will play a meaningful role in helping individuals lead fulfilling lives by providing person-centered support in residential and community settings. If you are passionate about helping others, enjoy building relationships, and want a career with purpose, we encourage you to apply.

Responsibilities

• Support Daily Living & Independence
  • Assist individuals with activities of daily living, including:
    • Personal hygiene and grooming
    • Dressing and personal care
    • Meal planning and preparation
    • Housekeeping and laundry
    • Household organization and basic home maintenance
  • Encourage independence, self-advocacy, and life skill development.
  • Promote dignity, choice, privacy, and respect in all interactions.
  • Support participation in recreational, educational, vocational, religious, and social activities.
• Help Individuals Achieve Their Goals
  • Implement Individual Support Plans (ISPs), Individual Habilitation Plans (IHPs), and Behavior Support Plans (BSPs).
  • Teach and reinforce skills that support personal growth and independence.
  • Monitor progress toward individual goals and provide feedback to the support team.
  • Assist with assessments and contribute valuable observations regarding strengths, needs, and support recommendations.
• Promote Health & Safety
  • Monitor the health, safety, and well-being of individuals served.
  • Administer medications and complete medication-related documentation in accordance with agency policies and training requirements.
  • Respond appropriately to medical, behavioral, and emergency situations.
  • Report incidents, injuries, abuse, neglect, exploitation, or safety concerns in accordance with agency and state regulations.
  • Maintain required certifications, including CPR and First Aid.
• Support Community Inclusion
  • Transport individuals safely to appointments, employment sites, day programs, community events, and family visits.
  • Encourage meaningful community participation and relationship building.
  • Support individuals in becoming active and engaged members of their communities.
• Maintain Documentation & Compliance
  • Complete accurate and timely:
    • Daily logs
    • Progress and goal notes
    • Medication administration records
    • Incident reports
    • Behavioral documentation
    • Seizure, sleep, weight, and bowel movement tracking logs
    • Vehicle and transportation records
    • Consumer fund documentation
  • Maintain HIPAA compliance and confidentiality standards.
  • Follow all agency policies, DDD standards, and state licensing requirements.
  • Participate in audits, inspections, home reviews, and compliance activities as required.
• Collaborate as Part of a Team
  • Work closely with Residential Managers, Lead DSPs, clinicians, families, and other support professionals.
  • Attend required staff meetings, trainings, and professional development sessions.
  • Assist with on-call responsibilities, emergency coverage, and special projects as needed.
  • Perform additional duties to support quality services and organizational success.

Required Qualifications

• High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent.
• At least 21 years of age.
• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
• Ability to pass required background checks and screenings.
• Ability to obtain and maintain CPR, First Aid, and other required certifications.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Human Services, Psychology, Social Work, Special Education, or a related field.
• Six months to one year of experience supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities or working in a human services setting.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to build positive relationships with individuals served, families, and team members.
• Understanding of person-centered practices and trauma-informed care.
• Knowledge of developmental disabilities and behavioral support principles.
• Strong organizational, documentation, and time-management skills.
• Good judgment, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office, email, and electronic documentation systems.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with a team.
• Professionalism and composure during crises or high-stress situations.
• Commitment to ethical practices, confidentiality, and high-quality care.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift, move, or assist with transferring individuals and objects weighing up to 50 pounds or more, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, reach, climb stairs, and perform physical support activities throughout the workday.
• Ability to drive agency or personal vehicles when transporting individuals.
• Ability to work in residential homes and community-based environments.

Schedule & Availability

This position requires flexibility and may include:

• Day, evening, overnight, weekend, and holiday shifts
• Overtime opportunitiesEmergency coverage and on-call responsibilities
• Schedule and work location changes based on program needs

Why Join Advancing Opportunities?

As a Direct Support Professional, you'll have the opportunity to make a lasting impact in the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Every day, you'll help people build independence, achieve personal goals, and live meaningful lives within their communities.

Join a mission-driven team that values:

• Compassion
• Respect
• Inclusion
• Empowerment
• Personal Growth
• Excellence in Care

About Us

Advancing Opportunities, Inc., an affiliate of Apis Services, Inc., is a leading New Jersey nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities and their families through innovative, person-centered programs and services.

Apis Services, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Inperium, Inc., provides administrative and shared services to more than 30 nonprofit and for-profit organizations nationwide. Together, we support thousands of individuals and families while creating opportunities for employees to build meaningful and rewarding careers.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Advancing Opportunities, Inc., Apis Services, Inc., and their affiliates are proud Equal Opportunity Employers. We are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and respectful workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law.