Direct Support Professional Autism Support Role
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TERRAPIN HOUSE INC
Allentown, PA, US
Summary
The Direct Support Professional provides person-centered care to individuals with disabilities, assisting with daily living activities and community participation. They are also responsible for medication administration, behavioral support, and maintaining a safe, clean home environment.
Job Description
Benefits:
- Training & development
- Competitive salary
- Flexible schedule
- Paid time off
- Bonus based on performance
Employment Status: Full-Time / Part-Time / PRN
Shift Availability:
- First Shift: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Second Shift: 3:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Third Shift (Awake Overnight): 11:00 PM – 7:00 AM
About the RoleThe Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides compassionate, person-centered support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), autism spectrum disorder, behavioral health needs, and/or physical disabilities. DSPs assist individuals in achieving independence, maintaining health and safety, participating in their communities, and meeting goals identified in their Individual Support Plans (ISP).
DSPs are responsible for promoting dignity, choice, respect, and community inclusion while ensuring compliance with state regulations, agency policies, and person-centered practices.
Responsibilities
Personal Care
- Assist individuals with bathing, dressing, grooming, oral hygiene, toileting, and other Activities of Daily Living (ADLs).
- Encourage independence by providing assistance only as needed.
- Maintain individuals' dignity and privacy during personal care.
Medication Administration
- Administer medications as certified and according to physician orders and agency policy.
- Document medication administration accurately.
- Report medication errors immediately.
Health & Safety
- Monitor individuals for changes in physical or mental health.
- Report illnesses, injuries, or unusual observations immediately.
- Follow emergency procedures and crisis intervention plans.
- Ensure a clean, safe, and hazard-free home environment.
Documentation
- Complete all required documentation before the end of each shift.
- Record progress notes, medication documentation, incident reports, behavior tracking, and communication logs.
- Maintain confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA.
Community Participation
- Support individuals in community outings.
- Assist with appointments, shopping, recreation, employment, volunteer activities, and social events.
- Transport individuals safely using agency vehicles when authorized.
Behavioral Support
- Implement Positive Behavior Support Plans.
- Use approved de-escalation techniques.
- Collect behavior data as required.
- Report behavioral incidents promptly.
Household Responsibilities
- Maintain the cleanliness of the residence.
- Complete assigned household chores.
- Assist with laundry and linen changes.
- Maintain food safety and sanitation standards.
Communication
- Communicate professionally with coworkers, families, guardians, healthcare providers, and supervisors.
- Participate in team meetings and required trainings.
Required Qualifications
Applicants must hold at least one of the following:
- High School Diploma or GED.
- Minimum age of 18 years.
- Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record.
- Ability to pass a criminal background check.
- Ability to pass drug screening (if required).
Additional Requirements:
• Experience supporting adults with Autism
• PA background checks and drug screening
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation
You are responsible to completeand pay for your physical
Apply through CareerPlug or email your resume and a brief note to
isatu@terrapinhouse.org
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and value diversity and inclusion.
