The Adolphus Group
Direct Support Professional (DSP)
Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) at The Adolphus Group are trusted team members who provide hands‑on, person‑centered support to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities living in licensed residential homes. Working within the scope of Pennsylvania's 6400 and 6100 regulatory frameworks, DSPs are responsible for promoting health, safety, dignity, independence, and inclusion.
This is a professional, frontline role that demands consistency, accountability, emotional regulation, and adherence to clinical and compliance standards. DSPs help individuals achieve their personal goals, follow structured routines, and participate in meaningful daily living – all while preserving each person's rights and autonomy.
DSPs are expected to deliver trauma‑informed, equity‑driven care while maintaining clear documentation, participating in incident response/reporting, and ensuring full compliance with DHS expectations.
Key Responsibilities
Daily Support & Personal Care
Assist individuals with activities of daily living (ADLs), including bathing, grooming, dressing, toileting, and mobility
Provide meal planning, preparation, and nutritional support based on ISP goals and dietary needs
Maintain a clean, organized, and respectful living environment
Service Implementation & Documentation
Implement Individual Support Plans (ISPs), Behavior Support Plans (BSPs), and Risk Mitigation Plans
Accurately complete shift notes, data collection, progress tracking, and incident reports
Support documentation and monitoring related to community engagement and individual outcomes
Health, Safety & Medication Administration
Administer medications per PA Medication Administration Program (MAP) guidelines
Monitor and report changes in health, behavior, or psychiatric condition
Conduct emergency drills, safety checks, and follow incident management procedures
Crisis Prevention & Trauma‑Informed Response
Use de‑escalation and redirection techniques consistent with trauma‑informed practices
Respond to behavioral or emotional crises with professionalism and care
Preserve individual dignity, rights, and choice at all times
Professionalism & Team Collaboration
Attend all required trainings, staff meetings, and supervision sessions
Maintain confidentiality, healthy boundaries, and ethical care standards
Communicate effectively with coworkers, supervisors, medical professionals, and families
Qualifications
High school diploma or GED required
Valid driver's license preferred
Ability to perform physical tasks, including lifting and assisting with mobility
Completion of mandatory onboarding trainings (e.g., fire safety, rights, trauma‑informed care, medication administration if applicable)
Work Environment This role involves direct, physical, and emotionally engaged care work. Shifts may include mornings, evenings, overnights, weekends, or holidays. The environment may include individuals with complex medical or behavioral needs. Staff must be prepared to respond to emergencies, follow plans with fidelity, and collaborate with a multidisciplinary team.
JOB CODE: 2000-(001-004)
Successful completion of all required DHS background checks is required.
Additional Details Seniority level: Entry level | Employment type: Full‑time | Job function: Other
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This is a professional, frontline role that demands consistency, accountability, emotional regulation, and adherence to clinical and compliance standards. DSPs help individuals achieve their personal goals, follow structured routines, and participate in meaningful daily living – all while preserving each person's rights and autonomy.
DSPs are expected to deliver trauma‑informed, equity‑driven care while maintaining clear documentation, participating in incident response/reporting, and ensuring full compliance with DHS expectations.
Key Responsibilities
Daily Support & Personal Care
Assist individuals with activities of daily living (ADLs), including bathing, grooming, dressing, toileting, and mobility
Provide meal planning, preparation, and nutritional support based on ISP goals and dietary needs
Maintain a clean, organized, and respectful living environment
Service Implementation & Documentation
Implement Individual Support Plans (ISPs), Behavior Support Plans (BSPs), and Risk Mitigation Plans
Accurately complete shift notes, data collection, progress tracking, and incident reports
Support documentation and monitoring related to community engagement and individual outcomes
Health, Safety & Medication Administration
Administer medications per PA Medication Administration Program (MAP) guidelines
Monitor and report changes in health, behavior, or psychiatric condition
Conduct emergency drills, safety checks, and follow incident management procedures
Crisis Prevention & Trauma‑Informed Response
Use de‑escalation and redirection techniques consistent with trauma‑informed practices
Respond to behavioral or emotional crises with professionalism and care
Preserve individual dignity, rights, and choice at all times
Professionalism & Team Collaboration
Attend all required trainings, staff meetings, and supervision sessions
Maintain confidentiality, healthy boundaries, and ethical care standards
Communicate effectively with coworkers, supervisors, medical professionals, and families
Qualifications
High school diploma or GED required
Valid driver's license preferred
Ability to perform physical tasks, including lifting and assisting with mobility
Completion of mandatory onboarding trainings (e.g., fire safety, rights, trauma‑informed care, medication administration if applicable)
Work Environment This role involves direct, physical, and emotionally engaged care work. Shifts may include mornings, evenings, overnights, weekends, or holidays. The environment may include individuals with complex medical or behavioral needs. Staff must be prepared to respond to emergencies, follow plans with fidelity, and collaborate with a multidisciplinary team.
JOB CODE: 2000-(001-004)
Successful completion of all required DHS background checks is required.
Additional Details Seniority level: Entry level | Employment type: Full‑time | Job function: Other
#J-18808-Ljbffr