Direct Support Professional-Pottstown, Pa

Shared Wellness; Warrington Township (Bucks County); On-site; USD 28,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Shared Wellness is seeking a Direct Support Professional to assist individuals with intellectual disabilities in daily activities, personal care, and community involvement. You will promote independence, dignity, and empowerment in a compassionate, side-by-side approach.

Responsibilities include 24-hour support in 1:1 or 2:1 settings, attendance at medical appointments, and collaboration with the team to follow Individual Support Plans, ensuring safety and inclusion in activities.

Qualifications

• Experience in caregiving or social work is beneficial but not required.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential.
• Ability to lift or assist individuals with physical support may be required.

Responsibilities

• Provide Direct Assistance: help with daily activities and community engagement.
• Embrace a side-by-side mindset, supporting individuals to take the lead.
• Support personal development and goal attainment.
• Promote community integration and independence for individuals.
• Ensure health and safety and document progress on ISP/BSP.
• Administrative duties: log hours, submit shift notes, attend trainings.

Skills

Communication skills

Patience

Empathy

Problem-solving

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

Job Details

• Position Type: Full-Time/Part-Time
• Education Level: High School
• Salary Range: $20.21 - $20.21 Hourly
• Job Shift: Any
• Job Category: Health Care

At Shared Wellness, we provide compassionate, person-centered care that emphasizes dignity, respect, and empowerment. We believe in working "side by side" with individuals, promoting independence and personal growth through a collaborative approach.

As a Direct Support Professional (DSP), you will support individuals with intellectual disabilities in achieving their goals and navigating daily activities. You will foster independence, inclusion, and self-confidence while maintaining a safe and supportive environment.

Guided by our core principles of inclusivity, accessibility, and compassion, you will play a vital role in helping individuals live fulfilling, balanced lives. Join us in making a meaningful impact every day.

Qualifications

We are seeking compassionate and dedicated direct support professional to join our team at Shared Wellness. In this role, you’ll provide meaningful support to individuals in their daily lives—helping with personal care, fostering independence, and encouraging community involvement. This is more than a job; it’s an opportunity to build authentic connections, empower others to reach their goals, and make a lasting difference every day.

Role and Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities

• Provide Direct Assistance: Work alongside individuals, assisting them in daily activities, such as personal care, household tasks, and community engagement, while encouraging independence and self-reliance.
• Embrace a Side-by-Side Mindset: Partner with individuals, allowing them to take the lead whenever possible and creating a supportive environment to help them build confidence in their abilities.
• Support Personal Development: Assist with skill-building and encourage individuals to take steps towards their personal goals in areas such as employment, education, and socialization.
• Promote Community Integration: Encourage community involvement, guiding individuals to explore, participate, and become active members of their communities while respecting their preferences and comfort levels.
• Ensure Health and Safety: Maintain a safe and healthy environment for all, practicing standard safety protocols and responding promptly to any health or behavioral concerns.
• Document Progress: Keep accurate records of daily activities, progress toward goals, and any relevant observations, using these to collaborate with team members on individualized support plans.

Program Responsibilities

• Provide 24-hour support in a 1:1 or 2:1 setting to ensure individuals’ safety and well-being.
• Accompany individuals to medical appointments as directed by the Program Specialist.
• Maintain a safe, comfortable, and personalized living environment.
• Foster a collaborative team approach to enhance individualized support.
• Perform household cleaning tasks as required to maintain a healthy living space.
• Communicate effectively during shift transitions to ensure continuity of care.
• Utilize de-escalation techniques to address behavioral concerns and maintain safety.
• Review and adhere to each individual's Individual Support Plan (ISP) and Behavior Support Plan (BSP).
• Provide transportation and facilitate participation in community activities.
• Assist with personal care and daily living tasks in alignment with the ISP and BSP.
• Attend monthly Circle meetings as required by the Program Specialist.
• Support the development of healthy relationships and effective communication skills.
• Identify and facilitate activities and volunteer opportunities based on individual interests in collaboration with the Program Specialist.

Administrative Responsibilities

• Accurately log hours worked in real-time using the designated phone application.
• Review and verify timecards as needed in a timely manner.
• Complete and submit shift notes immediately following each shift.
• Participate in required annual training as directed by the Training Coordinator.
• Adhere to all organizational policies and procedures to ensure compliance and best practices.

Qualifications

• Experience: Prior experience in caregiving, social work, or similar roles is beneficial but not required.
• Mindset: A passion for a side-by-side approach, with the belief that each individual’s journey is unique and should be respected and empowered.
• Skills: Strong communication, patience, empathy, and problem-solving skills.
• Requirements: Ability to lift or assist individuals with physical support, flexibility to work various shifts, and a valid driver’s license if required for community-based activities.

Education and Other Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED
• Valid Driver’s License

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

At Shared Wellness, we believe every person deserves respect, dignity, and opportunity. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and are committed to building an inclusive workplace that reflects the diverse communities we serve.

All employment decisions are made based on qualifications, merit, and organizational needs—without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by law.

We welcome individuals from all backgrounds to join us in supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live meaningful, connected lives.