DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL-HOURLY

Direct Support Professional (DSP) – Behavioral Health Residential

Make a Difference Every Day

At RHD, one of Delaware’s largest nonprofit human services organizations, we are committed to helping individuals live healthy, meaningful, and independent lives. Through collaboration with community partners, healthcare providers, and government agencies, we provide essential services to some of the state's most vulnerable populations.

We are seeking compassionate, dedicated, and reliable Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to join our Behavioral Health Residential team. If you are passionate about helping others, building meaningful relationships, and supporting individuals in achieving their goals, this may be the perfect opportunity for you.

Position Summary

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) is an essential member of the interdisciplinary care team, providing direct support to individuals with intellectual, developmental, and behavioral health challenges. The DSP helps individuals develop life skills, maintain their health and safety, increase independence, and participate fully in their communities.

Working collaboratively with clinical and residential staff, the DSP provides person-centered care and support while promoting dignity, recovery, wellness, and self-determination. Through compassion, encouragement, and advocacy, the DSP helps individuals achieve their fullest potential and improve their quality of life.

Key Responsibilities

Direct Care & Daily Living Support

Assist individuals with activities of daily living (ADLs), including:

Personal hygiene and grooming

Meal preparation and nutrition

Laundry and housekeeping

Daily routines and self-care activities

Support individuals in developing and maintaining independent living skills.

Assist with medication routines in accordance with agency policies and procedures.

Promote healthy habits, wellness, and personal responsibility.

Community Engagement & Skill Building

Encourage individuals to participate in community, recreational, educational, and social activities.

Support individuals in developing meaningful relationships and community connections.

Provide guidance and supervision to build confidence, independence, and life skills.

Model positive behavior, hope, optimism, and encouragement.

Behavioral Health & Crisis Support

Monitor for signs of crisis or potential behavioral concerns.

Respond appropriately to crisis situations using approved interventions and best practices.

Follow agency policies regarding safety, emergency response, and incident reporting.

Maintain a calm, supportive approach when assisting individuals during challenging situations.

Health, Safety & Well-Being

Help maintain a safe, clean, and supportive residential environment.

Observe changes in physical, emotional, or behavioral health and report concerns appropriately.

Assist in ensuring the overall safety and well-being of individuals receiving services.

Uphold individual rights, dignity, and confidentiality at all times.

Documentation & Compliance

Complete accurate and timely documentation related to services provided.

Document activities, progress, observations, and incidents in accordance with agency standards.

Maintain confidentiality and comply with all HIPAA regulations.

Follow organizational policies, ethical standards, and regulatory requirements.

Team Collaboration

Work collaboratively with supervisors, nurses, clinicians, family members, and interdisciplinary team members.

Participate in team meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities.

Support a culture of teamwork, respect, and excellent service.

Qualifications

Required

High School Diploma or GED.

Valid Delaware Driver’s License.

Minimum three (3) years of acceptable driving history.

Ability to meet organizational driving requirements.

Preferred

Experience supporting individuals with:

Behavioral health challenges

Intellectual and developmental disabilities

Mental health conditions

Residential or human services programs

Additional Skills

Strong verbal and written communication skills.

Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building abilities.

Strong organizational and follow-up skills.

Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Basic computer skills; experience with Microsoft Office is a plus.

Commitment to person-centered and recovery-oriented care.

What Makes a Great DSP?

Successful candidates are:

Compassionate and empathetic

Dependable and professional

Patient and encouraging

Strong communicators

Team-oriented and collaborative

Adaptable and solution-focused

Passionate about helping others succeed

Working Conditions

This position may include:

Day, evening, overnight, weekend, and holiday shifts

Community outings and transportation of individuals served

Residential and community-based work settings

Active engagement throughout the workday

Responding to behavioral health or crisis situations as needed

Physical Requirements

The employee must be able to:

Stand and walk for extended periods

Bend, stoop, kneel, and reach frequently

Assist with daily living activities and mobility support

Lift, carry, push, and pull as required

Safely operate a motor vehicle

Respond appropriately in emergency situations

Participate in approved crisis intervention techniques when necessary

Why Join RHD?

When you join RHD, you become part of a mission-driven organization dedicated to empowering individuals and strengthening communities. We value:

Compassion

Respect

Inclusion

Teamwork

Recovery and Wellness

Personal and Professional Growth

As a Direct Support Professional, you'll have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact every day while helping individuals live more independent, fulfilling lives.

Join our team and help create opportunities for growth, recovery, and success.

RHD and its affiliated organizations are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.