Direct Support Professional-Washington PA

Pathways of Southwestern Pennsylvania; Washington (Washington County); On-site; USD 22,000 - 28,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental & Vision

Paid trainings

403(b) Retirement Plan

Job summary

PathWays is in Washington, PA and seeks a Direct Support Professional to assist adults with intellectual disabilities and Autism in daily living and community activities. You’ll supervise on-site and during outings, promote independence, and document progress with care plans.

Starting pay ranges from $16.00 to $20.50 per hour, with higher rates possible for NADSP-certified candidates. Monday–Friday dayshift, medical/dental/vision benefits, paid trainings, and a 403(b) retirement plan accompany

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED – required
• Must be at least 18 years old with a valid driver’s license – and keep it valid while employed
• 1 year of direct care experience – preferred
• Clean Motor Vehicle Record
• Up-to-date Criminal Background Checks and PA Child Abuse Clearance (Don’t worry we will help get these for you)
• Pre-Employment Physical & TB Test

Responsibilities

• Supervise and support individuals on-site and during community outings
• Assist with daily living activities (eating, grooming, dressing, toileting) while promoting independence
• Encourage participation in meaningful activities aligned with goals
• Maintain accurate records and complete required documentation
• Observe and report changes in behavior or health to the supervisor
• Support mealtime setup, participation, and cleanup to build skills
• Transport individuals safely using company vehicles in accordance with policies

Skills

Compassionate

Reliable

Patient

Teamwork

Person-centered care

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

• Location Washington, PA, 15301,United States
• Base Pay $16.00 - $20.50 / Hour
• Job Category Direct Care, IDD/Autism, Life Skills
• Industry Human Services, Day Program, Community Participation Supports
• Required Degree High school

Make a Difference Every Day — Become a Direct Support Professional at PathWays!

AtPathWays, we believe that every person deserves to live a life filled with independence, dignity, and joy. That’s why we’re looking for dedicated, compassionate, and dependable individuals to join our Adult Training FacilityTeam and help adults with intellectual disabilities and Autism thrive.

If you're someone who wants to create meaningful moments, teach essential life skills, and be a real-life difference maker — we’d love to meet you!

Why You'll Love Being Part of the PathWays Family

• Starting Rate: $16/hour If you already hold one or more National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP) certifications, you may be eligible for a higher starting rate — up to $20.5/hour!
• Monday to Friday, dayshift
• Medical, Dental & Vision – Starts the 1st of the month after you’re hired

Paid Trainings – CPR, Medication Administration, and more!

FREE Employee Assistance Program

403(b) Retirement Plan

Career Development at PathWays:

We’re committed to helping our team members grow in their careers! PathWays offers the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP) Certification Program, which includes three levels of certification.

Each certification level comes with valuable professional development opportunities and a $1.50 per hour rate increase as you advance.

Your hard work and dedication don’t just make a difference — they’re rewarded and recognized here.

What You’ll Be Doing as a Direct Support Professional:

Supervise and support individuals both on-site and during community outings, ensuring safety and engagement.

Assist with daily living activities such as eating, grooming, dressing, toileting, and more—always promoting dignity and independence.

Help individuals participate in meaningful activities and programs that align with their goals and interests.

Maintain accurate records and complete required documentation related to individuals’ care and progress.

Observe and report any changes in behavior, physical health, or emotional well‑being to your supervisor.

Support mealtime setup, participation, and clean‑up—encouraging skill‑building and self‑reliance.

Transport individuals safely using company vehicles, following all relevant policies and state laws.

What We’re Looking For:

A compassionate, reliable, and patient individual who truly cares about helping others thrive.

Someone who values teamwork, respect, and person-centered care.

Ability to follow support plans, documentation procedures, and organizational policies.

Why Join PathWays?

Make a lasting impact in someone’s life—every single day.

Be part of a supportive, mission-driven organization that values its employees.

Gain valuable experience in the human services field.

Enjoy opportunities for growth, ongoing training, and meaningful work.

Requirements

What You’ll Need to Join the Team:

High School Diploma or GED – required

Must be at least 18 years old with a valid driver’s license – and keep it valid while employed

1 year of direct care experience – preferred

Clean Motor Vehicle Record

Up-to-date Criminal Background Checks and PA Child Abuse Clearance (Don’t worry we will help get these for you)

Pre-Employment Physical & TB Test

Building an Inclusive Path for Everyone

PathWays is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value the unique experiences and perspectives that every person brings to our team. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), PathWays provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. We encourage prospective and current employees to discuss any accommodation needs so we can create a supportive, accessible, and empowering workplace for everyone. If you are in need of an accommodation, please reach out to use at 724.225.8145 or email us at [e-mail]