5,125 Direct Support Professional jobs in the United States

Job Description

JOB FAIR!

You Are Invited to Attend & Interview at
ETTA's Upcoming
Open House Hiring Event
Tuesday, August 19 (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.)
at ETTA Headquarters - 13034 Saticoy Street, North Hollywood

For more info & to RSVP go to our Job Fair Event Posting
on ETTA's Website Careers Page (your Application is your RSVP)

Job Opening:

Highly Respected Los Angeles Non-profit
Has Multiple Opportunities
in the Rewarding Field of Human Services

Locations throughout Los Angeles, the San Fernando Valley
(and surrounding communities)

As a member of ETTA's Human Services Support Staff
(Direct Support Professional)
You Will Assist Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
to Live More Independent & Enriching Lives.

Become a.

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Life Skills Coach

Supported Living Services Staff (SLS)

Independent Living Advocate

Job Coach

General Support Staff (paid training)

Caregiver

Independent Living Services (ILS) Staff

Mentor

Multiple Human Services Opportunities in All Departments
Part Time & Full Time
Great Jobs throughout the Greater Los Angeles Area
(including the San Fernando Valley, Los Angeles, and surrounding communities)

Paid Training Provided!

Benefits

ETTA'S Full Time employees are offered a generous benefits package that includes:

• Medical Health Insurance / Dental / Vision
• Family Leave
• Retirement Plan
• Group Term Life / LTD
• Annual 80 hours vacation / 48 hours sick time

*Starting rate of pay is $19.00 per hour.

As a Direct Support Professional

At ETTA, You Will

Inspire & Support Adults with Autism

and Other Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

ETTA, a unique and respected non-profit in the field of Human Services, has been making a positive difference in the lives of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities since 1993.

Choose the Opportunity that's the Best Match for You

Consider ETTA's Day Program as a Direct Support Professional (with daily education, socialization and community volunteer activities every day); ETTA's Residential Group Homes (located in four houses in family neighborhoods in North Hollywood, Valley Village and Sherman Oaks) as a Direct Support Professional (DSP ); or check out our Employment Services department (as a Job Coach helping someone develop their talents, identify their employment ambitions, and get a good job or volunteer position - plus as an ILS Staff enhancing living skills). Become an Independent Living Advocate with ETTA's Supported Living Services (SLS) department where you can choose from many openings (part time, full time, all shifts).

As a member of the ETTA team, you will be appreciated and help make someone's world a better place. ETTA staff supports, guides, mentors, and inspires our clients to achieve their goals and live happier, healthier, and more fulfilling lives each and every day. Enter the meaningful and rewarding field of Human Services - Join the ETTA Family today! (Learn more, and see photos and videos on the ETTA website.)

Qualifications

• Some personal or professional experience supporting individuals with special needs(helpful)
• 21+ years of age
• A valid driver's license (for a minimum of three years), clean driving record, and an insured vehicle
• Willingness to drive with one of our clients using personal vehicle (mileage reimbursement)

Paid Training Provided!

INDEPENDENCE. INCLUSION. GROWTH.

Learn more on ETTA's website

Questions? Contact our Recruitment Department:

Or call ( , ext. 305

See a listing of all our current job openings on the Careers page.

ETTA is an Equal Employment Opportunity ("EEO") Employer

Live Scan (DOJ / FBI) background check required

A Direct Support Professional works closely with individuals with disabilities or other special needs to help them live as independently as possible. The role is focused on providing personal care, promoting social interaction, and ensuring individuals lead fulfilling lives. DSPs typically work in group homes, residential settings, or in the community.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide personal care assistance (bathing, grooming, dressing, and toileting) to individuals with physical, intellectual, or developmental disabilities.
• Help individuals with daily living tasks such as meal preparation, cleaning, and organizing their living spaces.
• Support and encourage participation in recreational, social, and community activities.
• Assist with medication management and health care needs under supervision.
• Foster skills development in areas such as communication, independent living, and decision-making.
• Monitor the well-being and safety of individuals and report any concerns or incidents.
• Develop and maintain positive relationships with clients and their families.
• Document and maintain accurate records of services provided, goals met, and any behavioral or health issues.
• Adhere to all safety guidelines and regulations.

• Education: High school diploma or GED (some positions may require a bachelor’s degree, depending on the setting).
• Experience: Previous experience working with individuals with disabilities is preferred, but not always required.
• Certification/Training:
  • CPR and First Aid certification may be required.
  • Some states may require DSP-specific training or certification.
  • Background check clearance.
• Skills:
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Patience and empathy in working with individuals with varying levels of disabilities.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Time management and organization.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality.

• Communication: Ability to communicate effectively with clients, families, and team members. Understanding non-verbal cues is also crucial.
• Problem Solving: Ability to assess situations, make decisions, and apply appropriate solutions quickly.
• Empathy and Compassion: Strong desire to help and make a positive difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities.
• Teamwork: Works well with a variety of colleagues and other healthcare professionals.
• Patience: Patience in dealing with challenging behaviors or medical needs.
• Flexibility: Adapting to the needs and preferences of individuals with disabilities.
• Documentation: Maintaining clear, accurate, and timely records of client activities, health status, and care provided.

1. Personal Care Assistance:
   • Assist clients with daily activities such as dressing, bathing, grooming, and eating.
   • Provide mobility assistance, including help with walking or transfers from bed to wheelchair.
2. Monitoring Health and Safety:
   • Observe and report on the individual’s physical and emotional well-being.
   • Ensure a safe living environment by following health and safety protocols.
   • Administer medications or assist with medication reminders.
3. Community Integration and Socialization:
   • Facilitate participation in community activities, such as outings, shopping, or recreational activities.
   • Encourage socialization and independence through skills-building activities.
4. Support with Household Tasks:
   • Help with light housekeeping, meal preparation, laundry, and maintaining a clean and safe environment.
5. Behavioral Support:
   • Implement behavior intervention strategies for individuals with special needs.
   • Respond to challenging behaviors and provide emotional support as needed.
6. Documentation and Reporting:
   • Maintain accurate records of services provided, incidents, and progress notes.
   • Provide updates to supervisors or care teams regarding the client’s condition and needs.

1. Communication:
   • Strong verbal and written communication skills for interacting with clients, families, and team members.
2. Empathy and Compassion:
   • Patience and a caring nature are essential to building trust and providing quality support.
3. Problem Solving:
   • Ability to think critically and respond appropriately to challenges or changes in the individual’s condition.
4. Adaptability:
   • Ability to adapt to different environments, individual needs, and situations.
5. Time Management:
   • Managing multiple responsibilities and providing timely support while prioritizing tasks.
6. Knowledge of Disability Services:
   • Understanding of various disabilities and how to best support individuals with different needs.
7. First Aid & CPR:
   • Certification in First Aid and CPR (often required for the job).

• Prior Experience:
  • Experience in caregiving, healthcare, or a related field is often preferred.
  • Some DSP positions may require experience specifically working with individuals with disabilities.
• On-the-Job Training:
  • Many employers provide on-the-job training that includes learning about specific client needs, safety protocols, and organizational procedures.
• Experience with Behavioral Techniques:
  • Some positions may require experience with behavioral management techniques or supporting individuals with behavioral health challenges.

1. High School Diploma or Equivalent:
   • Most DSP roles require at least a high school diploma or GED.
2. Certifications:
   • Many employers may require specific certifications such as:
     • CPR and First Aid Certification
     • Medication administration certification

1. Personal Care Assistance:
   • Assist individuals with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, grooming, eating, and toileting.
   • Help with mobility, transfers, and positioning, if necessary.
   • Ensure the person’s hygiene and overall well-being are maintained.
2. Medication Management:
   • Administer prescribed medications or assist individuals in taking their medications according to a prescribed schedule.
   • Monitor and report any side effects or health concerns to healthcare professionals.
3. Emotional and Social Support:
   • Provide companionship and emotional support to individuals.
   • Foster a positive and encouraging environment.
   • Engage in meaningful conversations, recreational activities, and social outings.
4. Encourage Independence:
   • Assist with skill-building activities to promote independence, such as cooking, cleaning, and managing finances.
   • Support individuals in setting and achieving personal goals.
5. Behavioral Support:
   • Implement individualized behavioral support plans.
   • Address challenging behaviors using positive reinforcement techniques.
   • Work closely with therapists and other healthcare professionals to ensure consistent care.
6. Transportation and Community Integration:
   • Drive or assist individuals with transportation to appointments, work, social activities, and community events.
   • Encourage participation in community programs or events to foster integration.
7. Record-Keeping and Reporting:
   • Maintain detailed records of daily activities, behavior changes, health concerns, and medication administration.
   • Report any significant incidents or changes to supervisors or healthcare professionals.

1. Communication Skills:
   • Ability to communicate clearly and empathetically with individuals, families, and other staff.
   • Strong written and verbal communication for documentation and reporting.
2. Patience and Empathy:
   • Understanding the needs and challenges of individuals with disabilities.
   • Ability to remain calm and composed during stressful or challenging situations.
3. Problem-Solving Skills:
   • Ability to think quickly and respond to emergencies or unexpected situations.
   • Creative in finding solutions to help individuals achieve their goals.
4. Teamwork:
   • Ability to work collaboratively with other caregivers, healthcare providers, and family members to ensure high-quality care.
   • Flexibility in adjusting to the team’s needs and dynamics.
5. Time Management and Organizational Skills:
   • Ability to prioritize tasks effectively and manage time efficiently, particularly when overseeing multiple individuals or responsibilities.
6. Physical Stamina:
   • Ability to assist with mobility, lift, or transfer individuals as needed.
   • Capable of performing light housekeeping, meal preparation, and other physical tasks.
7. Cultural Sensitivity:
   • Ability to work with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds and adapt care strategies accordingly.

1. Education:
   • High school diploma or equivalent; some positions may require a post-secondary education or certification.
   • Some employers may prefer or require completion of relevant courses (such as CPR, first aid, or specialized training for disabilities).
2. Experience:
   • Previous experience working with individuals with disabilities is preferred, but not always required.
   • Experience in a caregiving, healthcare, or similar field is a plus.
3. Certifications:
   • First Aid and CPR certification (required by many employers).
   • Additional certifications in behavior management or specific disabilities can be beneficial.
4. Background Checks:
   • Passing a criminal background check and other required screenings (such as drug testing or health assessments).

Hiring for: Full-Time Evenings (3pm-11pm) and On-Call (as needed)

Starting Wage: $14.00 per hour

If making a positive impact in the lives of others is always on your to-do list -- you'll LOVE working with a team that puts people first.

We're looking for Direct Support Professionals to join our team!

As a DSP, you will provide support and guidance to people served as they learn and develop important daily living skills and life activities to live as independently as possible.

You will love this job if you are:

• A natural helper - you possess the natural instinct to help people feel more relaxed, safe and confident;
• A top-notch listener - you hear the one-of-a-kind stories in every person you meet and naturally embrace each person's uniqueness;
• A dedicated teacher - you have a knack for sensing the emotions of others and enjoy helping others explore and learn;
• A proud advocate - you have an innate desire to stand up for people who need a voice
• A born go-getter - you are always looking for ways to add value, improve processes, build others up, and make the world a better place.

What you'll do in this role:

• Assist with the development of important daily living skills and life activities by creating an environment where people can learn, grow and discover;
• Help people identify and achieve the goals most important to them in order to live their best life possible;
• Monitor the comfort and safety of the people we serve while ensuring their medical, nutritional and personal care needs are being met; and,
• Demonstrate emotional support while assisting with general housekeeping, meal preparation and laundry duties.

This job may be the perfect fit for you if.

• You have a passion for helping others
• You're an effective, clear communicator - both written and verbal
• You're practically always on time (or early) and strive to exceed expectations whenever possible
• You have excellent time management skills and are able to juggle multiple responsibilities while communicating honestly about your timelines, challenges, and questions.
• You do whatever it takes and the phrase "That's not my job" is not a part of your vocabulary.
• When you hear the word inclusive or inclusion, you know that is you. People are people and you consider yourself a people person!

Commitment to Mosaic Values:

At Mosaic, we believe in creating a workplace where everyone has the chance to contribute and succeed. This commitment is not just a policy, it's the way we work. It's good for the workforce, it's good for Mosaic, and it's the right thing to do.

• Desire to make a positive difference in people's lives. No experience or educational requirements needed. We provide thorough training.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Valid U.S. driver's license required, where applicable.
• Work requires frequent physical activity including extended periods of standing, walking, and bending with occasional periods of sitting, kneeling, climbing, stooping, crouching, squatting and balancing.
• Work also requires constant reaching between knee and shoulder level as well as frequent reaching below knee level and overhead.
• Work requires occasional independent lifting up to 25 pounds, frequent push/pull up to 40 pounds of force and the ability to safely transfer 50 pounds.

#DSP1

Hiring for: Part-time WEEKEND days (7am-3pm) and On-Call!

Starting Wage $14.00 per hour!

If making a positive impact in the lives of others is always on your to-do list -- you'll LOVE working with a team that puts people first.

We're looking for Direct Support Professionals to join our team!

As a DSP, you will provide support and guidance to people served as they learn and develop important daily living skills and life activities to live as independently as possible.

You will love this job if you are:

• A natural helper - you possess the natural instinct to help people feel more relaxed, safe and confident;
• A top-notch listener - you hear the one-of-a-kind stories in every person you meet and naturally embrace each person's uniqueness;
• A dedicated teacher - you have a knack for sensing the emotions of others and enjoy helping others explore and learn;
• A proud advocate - you have an innate desire to stand up for people who need a voice
• A born go-getter - you are always looking for ways to add value, improve processes, build others up, and make the world a better place.

What you'll do in this role:

• Assist with the development of important daily living skills and life activities by creating an environment where people can learn, grow and discover;
• Help people identify and achieve the goals most important to them in order to live their best life possible;
• Monitor the comfort and safety of the people we serve while ensuring their medical, nutritional and personal care needs are being met; and,
• Demonstrate emotional support while assisting with general housekeeping, meal preparation and laundry duties.

This job may be the perfect fit for you if.

• You have a passion for helping others
• You're an effective, clear communicator - both written and verbal
• You're practically always on time (or early) and strive to exceed expectations whenever possible
• You have excellent time management skills and are able to juggle multiple responsibilities while communicating honestly about your timelines, challenges, and questions.
• You do whatever it takes and the phrase "That's not my job" is not a part of your vocabulary.
• When you hear the word inclusive or inclusion, you know that is you. People are people and you consider yourself a people person!

Commitment to Mosaic Values:

At Mosaic, we believe in creating a workplace where everyone has the chance to contribute and succeed. This commitment is not just a policy, it's the way we work. It's good for the workforce, it's good for Mosaic, and it's the right thing to do.

• Desire to make a positive difference in people's lives. No experience or educational requirements needed. We provide thorough training.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Valid U.S. driver's license required, where applicable.
• Work requires frequent physical activity including extended periods of standing, walking, and bending with occasional periods of sitting, kneeling, climbing, stooping, crouching, squatting and balancing.
• Work also requires constant reaching between knee and shoulder level as well as frequent reaching below knee level and overhead.
• Work requires occasional independent lifting up to 25 pounds, frequent push/pull up to 40 pounds of force and the ability to safely transfer 50 pounds.

#DSP1

Schedule Available:

Full-Time Days

If making a positive impact in the lives of others is always on your to-do list -- you'll LOVE working with a team that puts people first.

We're looking for Direct Support Professionals to join our team!

As a DSP, you will provide support and guidance to people served as they learn and develop important daily living skills and life activities to live as independently as possible.

You will love this job if you are:

• A natural helper - you possess the natural instinct to help people feel more relaxed, safe and confident;
• A top-notch listener - you hear the one-of-a-kind stories in every person you meet and naturally embrace each person's uniqueness;
• A dedicated teacher - you have a knack for sensing the emotions of others and enjoy helping others explore and learn;
• A proud advocate - you have an innate desire to stand up for people who need a voice
• A born go-getter - you are always looking for ways to add value, improve processes, build others up, and make the world a better place.

What you'll do in this role:

• Assist with the development of important daily living skills and life activities by creating an environment where people can learn, grow and discover;
• Help people identify and achieve the goals most important to them in order to live their best life possible;
• Monitor the comfort and safety of the people we serve while ensuring their medical, nutritional and personal care needs are being met; and,
• Demonstrate emotional support while assisting with general housekeeping, meal preparation and laundry duties.

This job may be the perfect fit for you if.

• You have a passion for helping others
• You're an effective, clear communicator - both written and verbal
• You're practically always on time (or early) and strive to exceed expectations whenever possible
• You have excellent time management skills and are able to juggle multiple responsibilities while communicating honestly about your timelines, challenges, and questions.
• You do whatever it takes and the phrase "That's not my job" is not a part of your vocabulary.
• When you hear the word inclusive or inclusion, you know that is you. People are people and you consider yourself a people person!

Commitment to Mosaic Values:

At Mosaic, we believe in creating a workplace where everyone has the chance to contribute and succeed. This commitment is not just a policy, it's the way we work. It's good for the workforce, it's good for Mosaic, and it's the right thing to do.

• Desire to make a positive difference in people's lives. No experience or educational requirements needed. We provide thorough training.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Valid U.S. driver's license required, where applicable.
• Work requires frequent physical activity including extended periods of standing, walking, and bending with occasional periods of sitting, kneeling, climbing, stooping, crouching, squatting and balancing.
• Work also requires constant reaching between knee and shoulder level as well as frequent reaching below knee level and overhead.
• Work requires occasional independent lifting up to 25 pounds, frequent push/pull up to 40 pounds of force and the ability to safely transfer 50 pounds.

#DSP1