Description

Position Summary

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) partners with individuals served in the Day Program to provide coaching, personal care, and support in daily living activities. This role promotes independence, encourages community participation, and ensures a safe and engaging environment. The DSP maintains accurate documentation, supports individual goals, and upholds the mission and values of the organization. Applicants must be a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), 21years or older, and possess avalid driver's licensewith a willingness to drive agency vehicles.

Key Responsibilities

• Partner with individuals served to provide coaching, encouragement, and participation in daily activities.
• Assist with personal care and daily living skills, including bathing, cleaning, feeding, toileting, and lifting as needed.
• Support individuals in developing essential life skills such as cooking, cleaning, communication, and money management.
• Promote independence by offering guidance rather than completing tasks for individuals when appropriate.
• Transport individuals to and from group homes, community activities, and program outings as needed.
• Encourage participation in community events, recreational activities, and social opportunities.
• Ensure safety during transport and while in community settings by following agency protocols.
• Provide appropriate supervision to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals at all times.
• Follow all safety procedures, emergency protocols, and behavioral support guidelines.
• Report any concerns, incidents, or changes in health or behavior to supervisors promptly.
• Maintain accurate records of care provided, health observations, attendance, and progress toward individual goals.
• Document activities, personal care, and any incidents in accordance with agency standards.
• Communicate effectively with team members, supervisors, and other support staff to ensure continuity of care.
• Support the overall mission of the Day Program by assisting with program activities, classroom organization, and group engagement.
• Perform additional duties assigned by leadership.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED required
• Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification.
• At least 21 years of age.
• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
• Ability to lift, transfer, and physically assist individuals as needed.
• Strong communication, patience, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and follow all agency policies.
• Experience working with individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities.
• Familiarity with person-centered planning and support strategies.
• Previous experience in a day program, group home, or healthcare setting.

Skills & Competencies

Compassion and patience - supports individuals with dignity and respect.

Reliability - dependable in attendance, supervision, and follow-through.

Safety awareness - prioritizes safe practices in all environments.

Team collaboration - works effectively with program staff and supervisors.

Adaptability - responds calmly and effectively to changing needs or behaviors.

If you want this turned into a shorter external job posting or a version tailored to a specific Day Program location, I can help refine it.

Working Conditions

• Frequent standing and walking for extended periods; hand dexterity; reaching with hands and arms; climbing or balancing; stooping; kneeling; crouching; or crawling.
• Ability to listen to sounds both near and far.
• Occasional sitting.
• Frequent lifting and/or moving more than 100 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required, including close vision, distance vision, color vision, and depth perception.

Summary

Join Us
If you're passionate about supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and want to make a meaningful impact, we invite you to apply and become part of our mission-driven team.
Diversity, Inclusion, and Equal Opportunity Statement
The Arc of Central Alabama is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age (40 or older), disability, genetic information, marital status, or any other protected status under federal or state law. We provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and encourage veterans and individuals from underrepresented communities to apply.