LEAD Direct Support Professional

Beacon Specialized Living; Worthington (OH); On-site; USD 22,000 - 30,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental & Vision

Telehealth

Life Insurance

401(k) match

Daily Pay

Paid Training

LEAP Program

Career Growth

Mentorship

Job summary

Beacon Specialized Living Services is seeking a Lead Direct Support Professional to lead the home, mentor the care team, and provide hands-on support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, autism, or mental health needs.

In collaboration with the Care Team Manager, you’ll oversee daily operations, support daily living skills, foster independence, and ensure a safe, respectful, person-centered environment.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• 18 years of age or older.
• Valid driver's license.
• Must pass background checks.
• Physical ability to perform care duties (lifting up to 50 lbs, stairs, transferring individuals).

Responsibilities

• Lead by example: coach staff and provide person-centered care.
• Empower individuals: assist with daily living skills and goals.
• Uphold quality standards: ensure care plans and documentation are accurate.
• Maintain a safe home: oversee cleanliness and readiness, assist with chores.
• Medication administration: administer medications and maintain records.
• Transportation & advocacy: transport to appointments and advocate for independence.
• Foster communication: provide shift hand-offs and team updates.
• Remain accessible: stay awake and available during 24/7 care as needed.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Teamwork

Reliability

Mentorship

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Computer literacy

Job description

Take the Lead at Beacon Specialized Living Services: Make a Real Difference Every Day

Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of others? Do you have experience supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, mental health challenges, or autism—and a desire to lead by example? If so, your next step forward starts here at Beacon Specialized Living Services!

As a Lead Direct Support Professional (Lead DSP), you’ll take an active leadership role in the home, providing hands‑on care, mentoring your team, and ensuring a safe, supportive environment for the individuals we serve. You’ll be more than just a caregiver—you’ll be a role model, an advocate, and a key part of a compassionate team.

What Can I Expect as a Lead DSP?

In this role, you’ll work closely with the Care Team Manager to oversee the day‑to‑day operations of the home and provide direct support to individuals. You’ll help foster independence, promote personal growth, and encourage individuals to live their best lives.

Daily Responsibilities Include

• Lead by Example: Support and coach staff while modeling respectful, person‑centered care.
• Empower Individuals: Assist individuals with daily living skills, personal goals, and community engagement.
• Uphold Quality Standards: Ensure care plans, behavior plans, and documentation are followed and completed accurately.
• Maintain a Safe Home: Oversee the cleanliness, organization, and readiness of the home; cook, clean, and assist with laundry as needed.
• Medication Administration: Administer medications and maintain proper records.
• Transportation & Advocacy: Transport individuals to appointments, advocate on their behalf, and support their independence.
• Foster Communication: Provide shift hand‑offs and communicate effectively with the team.
• Remain Accessible: In homes with 24/7 care, remain awake and available throughout your shift.

What We’re Looking For

• A Leader with Heart: You’re compassionate, reliable, and ready to lead a team while delivering exceptional care.
• Experienced & Committed: At least 3 years of experience working with individuals with disabilities, mental health needs, or high‑acuity behaviors.
• Team‑Oriented: You collaborate well and support others with respect and patience.
• Strong Communicator: You’re confident, clear, and professional in both verbal and written communication.
• Reliable & Organized: You manage your time well, meet expectations, and are committed to quality work.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED
• 18 years of age or older
• Valid driver's license
• Must pass background checks
• Physical ability to perform care duties (lifting up to 50 lbs, stairs, transferring individuals)

Preferred

• Prior experience in a supervisory or lead role
• Strong documentation skills and computer literacy
• Ability to remain calm in high‑stress situations
• Experience working with high behavioural female individuals

What We Offer

Competitive Pay & Benefits

• Medical, Dental & Vision (starting 1st of the month after 60 days)
• FREE First Stop Health Telehealth — 24/7 care for you & your family
• Life Insurance & 401(k) with company match
• Daily Pay – Access your earnings when you need them
• Paid Training – Including CPR, Medication Administration, and more
• LEAP Program – Leadership, Excellence, Advancement, and Promotion
• Opportunities to grow into management roles
• Level up within your first 90 days with mentorship and performance‑based advancement

Why Beacon?

At Beacon, we believe in building careers that matter. You’ll be supported by a passionate team and a company that values your dedication, your growth, and your wellbeing. Join us and become part of a mission‑driven organization that’s changing lives—one person at a time.

Beacon Specialized Living Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all team members.