Waiver Direct Support Professional

Kids for the Future; Merrillville (IN); On-site; USD 22,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

AccessAbilities in Northwest Indiana seeks experienced Direct Support Professionals to work weekend shifts, evenings, and 1:1 overnight shifts in residential sites. This role requires high standards of care, accountability, and professionalism.

You will provide direct support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, implement PCISPs, assist with ADLs, document medications, and maintain a safe, person-centered environment while coordinating with leadership.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2+ years of verifiable Direct Support Professional experience preferred
• Strong documentation and compliance knowledge
• CPR & First Aid certification preferred

Responsibilities

• Provide direct support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities
• Implement PCISPs and behavior support strategies with consistency
• Assist with activities of daily living and promote independence
• Administer and document medications in compliance with state requirements
• Maintain a safe, structured, person-centered environment
• Communicate changes in health, behavior, or risk with leadership
• Support community integration and transportation activities

Skills

DSP experience

Documentation skills

Safety compliance

Job description

• Base Pay $16.00 - $18.50 / Hour
• Employee Type FT Non-Exempt
• Required Degree NONE
• Travel 30%
• Manage Others No

Description

Do you enjoy building genuine connections while making a meaningful difference? At AccessAbilities, you can do that — while working alongside individuals who are easygoing and a joy to support.

AccessAbilities is seeking experienced Direct Support Professionals who operate at a high standard of care, accountability, and professionalism to work weekend shifts, evenings, and 1:1 overnight shifts in Northwest Indiana.

This role is designed for career Direct Support Professionals who understand that direct support is skilled work requiring judgment, documentation discipline, regulatory awareness, and consistent execution.

We are looking for professionals who take ownership of outcomes and contribute to a stable, high-performing residential environment. Our residential sites are structured, supportive environments where positive relationships and mutual respect are central to daily life. If you are proactive, driven, solutions-oriented, and growth-minded, this is an opportunity to work in an organization that values experience, maintains strong standards, and fosters a supportive team culture.

The Role

The Experienced DSP provides direct support services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities while ensuring compliance, safety, and dignity in all aspects of care.

You will:

• Implement Person Centered Individual Support Plans (PCISPs) and behavior support strategies with consistency -
• Provide assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) while promoting independence -
• Administer and document medications in compliance with state requirements -
• Complete clear, timely, and audit-ready documentation
• Maintain a safe, structured, and person-centered environment
• Communicate effectively with leadership regarding changes in health, behavior, or risk
• Support community integration and transportation, including recreational outings and activities

This is not a passive caregiving role. It requires attention to detail, sound judgment, and pride in professional standards — balanced with the ability to build meaningful, positive relationships.

Who Thrives Here

Our strongest DSPs:

• Hold themselves accountable without constant supervision
• Anticipate needs rather than reacting to problems
• Understand waiver expectations and compliance standards
• Support team culture through reliability and consistency
• Take initiative to strengthen both client outcomes and operational stability
• Enjoy engaging with individuals in activities that promote connection and quality of life

We value DSPs who see this as a profession — not a temporary position — and who appreciate that providing excellent support can also be rewarding and enjoyable.

Requirements

Required Qualifications

• Minimum 2+ years of verifiable DSP experience supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities is preferred
• Strong working knowledge of documentation and compliance requirements
• CPR & First Aid certification preferred
• Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and current auto insurance
• Ability to pass all background and regulatory screenings
• HCSP training and medication administration experience strongly preferred

Compensation and Benefits

• Competitive hourly pay based on experience and qualifications
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Health, dental, vision, and additional insurance options (based on eligibility)
• 401(k) with employer match (based on eligibility)
• Opportunities for advancement into Lead and Site-level leadership roles
• Structured, mission-driven team environment

AccessAbilities is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful workplace.