Direct Support Professional III

Texas Health and Human Services; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

Texas Health and Human Services is seeking a Direct Support Professional III at the Austin State Supported Living Center. You will provide direct care and support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The role requires a high school diploma or GED, and experience in the field. Responsibilities include managing behavior plans, documentations, and team mentorship. Full-time shifts available, and additional pay for evenings and weekends. Applicants must be 18 years or older and eligible for background checks.

Qualifications

• High School diploma, GED, or 6 months of work experience.
• Six months of experience with individuals with disabilities.
• Valid Texas driver’s license or ability to obtain within 90 days.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct care and support services to individuals.
• Implement behavior management and treatment plans.
• Document daily activities and incidents.

Skills

Communication skills

Decision making

Behavior management

Crisis intervention

Teamwork

Education

High School diploma or GED

Tools

CPR certification

First Aid certification

Driver's license

Job description

Overview

Direct Support Professional III at the Texas Health and Human Services Commission, Austin State Supported Living Center, providing direct care and support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This role offers full-time day, evening, and night shifts with additional pay for evenings, nights, weekends, and high‑security locations.

Responsibilities

• Perform direct care and support services including grooming, bathing, feeding, lifting and positioning, medication assistance, and emergency care.
• Implement habilitation and rehabilitation, behavior management, crisis intervention, and individual treatment plans.
• Encourage participation in activities, observe and report behaviors and health conditions.
• Document daily activities, incidents, and progress in electronic record systems.
• Provide training, mentorship, and guidance to new DSPs and serve as shift/team lead when required.
• Maintain safety and infection control protocols, and safely transport residents to scheduled activities.
• Respond to emergencies with first aid, CPR, and use of restraints as needed.
• Participate in disaster response and continuity of operations planning.

Qualifications

• High School diploma, GED, or 6 months of work experience (Initial Screening Criteria).
• Six months of experience working with people who have mental health/intellectual developmental disabilities.
• Experience as a DSP, implementing behavior programs, and writing reports.
• Valid Texas driver’s license or ability to obtain within 90 days; required driving record for out-of-state licenses.
• Certifications in CPR, First Aid, Ukeru, and/or Safe Use of Restraint (SUR) preferred.
• Proficiency in reading, writing, and speaking English; excellent verbal and written communication.
• Ability to make decisions, use good judgment in critical incidents, and work effectively as part of a team.
• Flexible to work overtime, extended hours, weekends, and holidays.

Additional Information

• Fingerprint criminal background check, pre‑employment drug screen, and registry checks required.
• Male applicants 18–25 must register with Selective Service.
• State Supported Living Center employees are subject to random drug testing.
• All applicants must be at least 18 years old.
• Telework is not eligible; positions may be subject to state and agency telework policies.
• ADA accommodations are available during the hiring process.
• Employment subject to E‑Verify and I‑9 documentation requirements.

EEO Statement

Texas Health and Human Services Commission is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment.