Direct Service Professional (DSP) (General Pool)

ABOUT ABILITYFIRST: At AbilityFirst, we look beyond disabilities, focus on capabilities, and expand possibilities. Our team supports children and adults with developmental and physical disabilities to live more independent, fulfilling lives. We're building a general candidate pool for Direct Service Professionals (DSP) across multiple locations, meaning if you apply, you may be considered for current and future openings that match your availability and preferences.

ABOUT THE ROLE: As a Direct Service Professional (DSP), you'll work directly with participants to support daily activities, personal goals, and community engagement. This is a hands-on, active role where you'll build relationships, support independence, and create meaningful experiences.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Programming & Participant Support

• Actively supervise participants at all times; ensure health, safety, and engagement
• Work within the designated staffing ratio throughout the program day
• Implement daily activities and lesson plans reflecting each participant's Person-Centered Plan (PCP) goals
• Create and facilitate engaging, inclusive group activities
• Collaborate with team members to develop monthly activity calendars

Documentation & Communication

• Complete accurate and timely daily documentation of participant goal progress
• Report and document case notes or significant participant concerns immediately
• Maintain confidentiality and uphold dignity and rights of all participants

Personal Care

• Assist participants with all aspects of personal care: feeding, diapering (may include use of hoyer lift), toileting, and hygiene
• Support participants in swimming activities as needed

Community Outings

• Supervise and support participants ensuring safety and active engagement
• Help participants access volunteer opportunities in the community
• Drive agency vehicles or accompany participants on public transportation as needed once approved as an AF driver

Training & Professional Development

• Complete all required staff training including active supervision, behavior support, lifting/transferring, feeding/personal care, and safety protocols
• Participate in ongoing training, coaching, and staff meetings

Other Duties

• Uphold commitment as a Mandated Reporter
• Complete all required staff training assigned each quarter

QUALIFICATIONS:

• High School diploma or equivalent required
• Bachelor's Degree in a related field or equivalent experience preferred
• 12 ECE (Early Childhood Education) college units may be required for childcare programs
• 1-2 years of experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities preferred
• Must be able to provide physical assistance including lifting or transferring participants
• Strong understanding of person-centered practices, goal setting, and community integration preferred
• Willingness to participate in swimming and community activities required
• Strong written and verbal communication skills required
• Ability to work effectively with people of diverse races, ethnicities, and sexual orientations required
• Proficient in documentation systems such as ProCare, Microsoft Office preferred
• Must be able to work evenings/weekends as needed
• Valid Driver's License preferred
• Ability to obtain First Aid/CPR certification required
• Successful completion of background (LiveScan) check required

WHY JOIN US:

• Multiple locations across Southern California
• Flexible schedules (full-time, part-time, per diem)
• Entry-level friendly with paid training
• Meaningful, hands-on work that makes a difference every day
• Growth opportunities in human services and behavioral health

SPECIAL CONDITIONS:

• Mandated Reporting Requirements under California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act
• Required vaccinations: Pertussis (Whooping Cough), Measles, Influenza, Hepatitis B, TDaP, and MMR
• TB Test, LiveScan fingerprinting/background check, Drug Screening, and Physical/fitness-for-duty clearance required
• Driver positions require copy of driving record, valid driver's license, and proof of insurance