Direct Support Professional (In-Home Care Services) Vermilion Area

Arc Of Acadiana; Erath (LA); On-site; USD 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Paid time off

Employee assistance resources

Job summary

Arc Of Acadiana is seeking dedicated Direct Support Professionals to provide person-centered support for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Responsibilities include assisting with daily living activities, promoting independence, and documenting progress.

Offering flexible schedules and competitive benefits, including medical insurance and paid training, this role is essential for enhancing the lives of participants in the Erath community.

Qualifications

• Preferred experience in human services, caregiving, or direct support.
• Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively.
• Valid driver's license required.

Responsibilities

• Provide individualized support based on each participant’s goals.
• Assist with daily living activities and promote independence.
• Support community outings and document participant progress.

Skills

Communication and interpersonal skills

Patience and compassion

Ability to document information

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Overview

Job Location: Vermilion - Waiver - Erath, LA 70533

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.

Responsibilities

Person-Centered Support

• Provide 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 Independence

• Support 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 Inclusion

• Support participants during community outings, appointments, volunteer activities, and recreational opportunities.
• Promote meaningful participation and engagement in community life.

Documentation and Reporting

• Accurately 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 Wellness

• Observe 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 Conduct

• Communicate 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.

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.
• 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

• Competitive 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 Requirements

• Ability 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 Environment

This 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.