Lead Direct Support Professional

SC Works; Spartanburg, Northern (SC, KY); Hybrid; USD 31,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

The Charles Lea Center is seeking a Lead Direct Support Professional to provide compassionate, hands-on support in a residential setting for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. You will lead, mentor, and assist with program operations to ensure high-quality services.

Responsibilities include training, documentation, and ensuring adherence to behavioral plans, medication documentation, and daily living activities, with opportunities to oversee and coordinate with

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• 2-4 years of related experience preferred (DSP, CNA, PCA, RBT, Med Tech, Caregiver, or similar roles).
• Must have a valid driver''s license.
• Basic computer skills and ability to complete electronic documentation.

Responsibilities

• Provide hands-on support in residential settings.
• Mentor DSPs and assist with training.
• Assist with documentation for critical incidents and audits.
• Ensure adherence to Behavior Support Plans and dietary requirements.
• Coordinate with Program Manager and other departments.

Skills

Related experience 2-4 years

Valid driver''s license

Basic computer skills

Electronic documentation

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

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Occupation: Personal Care Aides Location: Spartanburg, SC - 29307 Job Type: Regular, Full Time (30 Hours or More), Permanent Employment, Rotating Shift Shift Posted: 09/30/2026

Positions available: 5 Source: SC Works Online Services Web Site: SC Works Online Services Onsite / Remote: Work onsite all of the time

As a LeadDirect Support Professional, you will provide compassionate, hands‑on support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in a residential setting. Your role is essential in helping individuals live as independently, safely, and meaningfully as possible.

Key Responsibilities

The Lead Direct Support Professional provides enhanced communication, training, and operational support to Program Managers, Direct Support Professionals (DSPs), and people supported. This role includes day‑to‑day direct support duties while offering leadership, mentorship, and administrative assistance to ensure high‑quality services and efficient program operations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Administrative Support
  • Assist Program Managers with the Performance Development Process by providing required information.
  • Support completion of On-the-Job Training (OJT) for new hires and provide follow-up as needed.
  • Mentor new employees and assist with ongoing training.
  • Participate in pre-admission meetings and communicate needs for incoming individuals.
  • Monitor training data for people supported and provide corrective training.
  • Complete monthly quality assurance audits.
  • Provide emergency transportation and support as needed.
  • Coordinate with internal departments to ensure supplies and resources are available.
  • Assist with documentation for critical incidents and follow-up recommendations.
  • Attend routine meetings with the Program Manager to review updates and needs.
  Training & Development
  • Support DSPs with daily operations, active treatment, and skill development.
  • Assist with assessments, monthly packets, and job process protocols.
  • Document services in Therap using required modules.
  • Submit maintenance needs through UpKeep.
  • Provide training on new procedures, initiatives, and licensing requirements.
  Program & Services Support
  • Ensure adherence to Behavior Support Plans and guidelines.
  • Serve as Medication Technician and document medication administration in Therap.
  • Ensure meals meet dietary and health requirements.
  • Advocate for the needs and preferences of people supported.
  • Serve as backup for the Program Manager when assigned.
  • Ensure daily activities reflect the needs and desires of people supported.
  • Maintain documentation to meet licensing, compliance, and support standards.
  • Assist with scheduling and coverage when available.
  • Perform routine DSP duties, including transportation, meal preparation, medical support, and daily living skills.
  • Conduct monthly council meetings with people supported and upload documentation to Teams.
  Program Specific - Supportive Living
  • Review and report key information to the Program Manager, including daily census, training objectives, appointment documentation, T-Logs, vehicle logs, and monthly required items.
  • Monitor medication supply, expiration dates, and refills; communicate with pharmacy, physicians, or families as needed.
  • Support health-related needs by coordinating with medical providers and ensuring Therap documentation is complete.
  • Serve as liaison for communication between shifts.

Qualifications

To be considered for this role, candidates must:

• Be at least 18 years of age.
• Possess a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Have 2 to 4 years of related experience preferred (DSP, CNA, PCA, RBT, Med Tech, Caregiver, or similar roles).
• Hold a valid driver's license.
• Have basic computer skills and the ability to complete electronic documentation.

Work Location Flexibility

This position is assigned to the Spartanburg area; however, Direct Support Professionals may be required to work at other Charles Lea Center locations as needed to meet staffing and operational needs.

Physical Requirements

This position requires regular standing, walking, bending, lifting, and providing hands‑on support to individuals. Employees must be able to lift up to 50 pounds. Reasonable accommodations may be made for qualified individuals with disabilities.

Why Join Us?

At Charles Lea Center, you’ll have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference every day by helping individuals achieve their goals, build independence, and thrive in their communities.

Company Profile:

The Charles Lea Center supports each person as they work to achieve their fullest potential. From newborns to seniors we provide services that enhance the quality of life for approximately 1,600 children and adults in Spartanburg County with intellectual disabilities and or chronic medical conditions. Our goal is to help each person live more independently, and of course that means different things for everyone, so we have an array of services including residential, day and work. In addition, we offer early intervention and case management services. Our services are based on the principles of person centered thinking that looks at the strengths of each person and uses those skills to promote greater independence.

The Charles Lea Center

Enhancing Lives. Encouraging Dreams.

Simply said, the Charles Lea Center supports each person as they work to achieve their fullest potential. From newborns to seniors we provide services that enhance the quality of life for approximately 1,600 children and adults in Spartanburg County with intellectual disabilities and or chronic medical conditions. Our goal is to help each person live more independently, and of course that means different things for everyone, so we have an array of services including residential, day and work. In addition, we offer early intervention and case management services. Our services are based on the principles of person centered thinking that looks at the strengths of each person and uses those skills to promote greater independence.

Connect with CHARLES LEA CENTER

Occupation Information for Personal Care Aides