Direct Support Professional (In-Home Care Services) St. Martin Parish Area

Arc Of Acadiana Inc; Lafayette (LA); On-site; USD 16,531 - 22,041; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Flexible scheduling

Insurance (medical/dental/vision)

Paid time off

Retirement plan

Employee assistance program

Training & development

Career growth opportunities

Job summary

Arc of Acadiana Inc. is seeking compassionate Direct Support Professionals to provide person-centered in-home and community supports to adults with developmental disabilities in Lafayette and surrounding areas.

You will implement individualized service plans, assist with daily living tasks, promote independence, document progress, and collaborate with families and supervisors. Flexible shifts include day, evening, overnight, and weekends; you’ll join a dedicated team committed to dignity,

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Related experience in human services, caregiving, or direct support preferred.
• Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Provide person-centered support based on each participant’s goals and routines.
• Assist with activities of daily living, including personal care, meal prep, household tasks, errands, and in-home supports.
• Encourage participants to make choices and perform tasks independently.
• Support participants in developing daily living, social, and community-based skills.
• Promote participation in community outings, appointments, volunteering, and recreation.
• Accurately complete service notes, progress notes, incident reports, and related documentation.
• Observe health, safety, and wellness, report changes, follow safety protocols and infection control.
• Communicate effectively with supervisors, coordinators, families, and team members; participate in training.

Skills

Strong communication

Interpersonal skills

Reading & writing

Dependability

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

At Arc of Acadiana, we are committed to using person-centered language and approaches in all aspects of our work. We recognize each participant as a person first and focus on supporting their choices, preferences, strengths, and independence.Arc of Acadiana provides person-centered Home and Community-Based In-Home Care Services to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Each participant has an Individualized Service Plan (ISP) that guides the supports provided by the Direct Support Professional (DSP).The DSP is responsible for implementing these plans by providing individualized support in participants’ homes and in the community. This role promotes independence, skill development, community inclusion, and meaningful engagement based on each participant’s unique goals and support needs.Schedule: Flexible schedules based on participant needs and employee availability, including daytime, evening, overnight, and weekend shifts.What You’ll DoPerson-Centered SupportProvide individualized support based on each participant’s goals, preferences, strengths, and daily routines.Assist with activities of daily living, including personal care, meal preparation, household tasks, errands, and other in-home supports as needed.Encourage participants to make choices and do as much as possible independently.Skill Development and IndependenceSupport participants in developing daily living, social, and community-based skills.Use positive teaching strategies such as modeling, prompting, and encouragement.Help participants work toward greater confidence, independence, and self-sufficiency.Community InclusionSupport participants during community outings, appointments, volunteer activities, and recreational opportunities.Promote meaningful participation and engagement in community life.Documentation and ReportingAccurately complete service notes, progress notes, incident reports, and related documentation.Collect and report information regarding participant progress and support needs.Maintain confidentiality of all participant and agency information.Health, Safety, and WellnessObserve and report changes in health, behavior, or overall well-being.Follow all safety procedures, emergency protocols, and infection control practices.Assist with medication administration or medication support only when trained and authorized.Teamwork and Professional ConductCommunicate effectively with supervisors, coordinators, families, and other team members.Attend required training sessions, meetings, and in-service education.Model professional, respectful, and compassionate behavior at all times.Follow all Individualized Service Plans, agency policies, and regulatory requirements.What We’re Looking ForHigh school diploma or equivalent preferred.Related experience in human services, caregiving, or direct support preferred.Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively.Strong communication and interpersonal skills.Commitment to person-centered support and participant dignity.Positive attitude, patience, and compassion in supporting others.Reliable, accountable, and able to work independently and as part of a team.Ability to observe, document, and accurately report information.Basic understanding of health, safety, and support needs for individuals with developmental disabilities.Valid driver’s license required.Acceptable driving record and proof of insurance may be required depending on assignment.Benefits & What We OfferCompetitive pay and flexible scheduling.Medical, dental, and vision insurance for eligible employees.Paid time off and sick leave.Retirement plan options for eligible employees.Employee assistance and wellness resources.Paid training and ongoing professional development.Opportunities for career growth and advancement.Physical RequirementsAbility to stand, walk, bend, lift, and assist participants with mobility and daily activities.Ability to remain awake and alert during assigned shifts.Ability to respond quickly and appropriately in emergency situations.Work EnvironmentThis position is primarily performed in participants’ homes and community settings throughout the service area. The DSP is expected to actively engage with participants and provide consistent, person-centered support that promotes independence, inclusion, and quality of life.Build a Career with PurposeMany of our leaders began their careers as Direct Support Professionals. If you are looking for meaningful work, flexible schedules, and the opportunity to help people live the lives they choose, Arc of Acadiana offers a rewarding career path.Achieve With Us.