Direct Support Professional (DSP) Lead

Job Title: Direct Support Professional Lead (DSP Lead)
Reports To: Residential House Supervisor and Program Specialist
Work Location: Assigned Residential Home(s)
Hourly Rate: $16.00 per hour

About Us:

Home Not Alone Caregiver Services, Inc. is a dedicated provider of person-centered services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). We are committed to creating safe, respectful, and nurturing residential environments where every individual is empowered to thrive.

General Job Description

The DSP Lead serves as a senior-level Direct Support Professional (DSP) and provides enhanced support and leadership within the residential group home. The role combines direct care responsibilities with team leadership duties and acts as a liaison between the DSP team and the House Supervisor. The DSP Lead supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in achieving their goals while promoting a safe, structured, and nurturing home environment.

The DSP Lead is responsible for ensuring high standards of care, providing mentorship to peers, participating in home operations, and assisting the House Supervisor with oversight of staffing, compliance, and daily routines.

Key Responsibilities1. Direct Care Support

• Provide high-quality, person-centered care to individuals with IDD, including:
• Bathing, grooming, dressing, and other hygiene tasks
• Assisting with meals and feeding as necessary
• Supporting mobility and positioning needs, including lifting and transfers
• Implement ISP goals and Behavior Support Plans (BSPs) as written
• Ensure all care is respectful, safe, and individualized

2. Medication Administration

• Successfully complete and maintain Medication Administration Training certification
• Administer medications accurately and document each pass in the MAR
• Monitor for side effects and report any concerns immediately
• Assist House Supervisor with monthly medication counts and audits
• Administer medications during assigned shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as scheduled

3. Transportation & Community Engagement

• Safely operate agency vehicles to:
• Transport individuals to medical, dental, or therapy appointments
• Accompany individuals on community outings and recreational activities
• Assist with grocery shopping and household supply runs
• Support the House Supervisor in maintaining cleanliness and organization of the agency van, including:

o Removing trash after each use

o Checking for personal belongings or safety hazards

o Ensuring the van is fueled, tidy, and stocked with any necessary supplies

• Ensure vehicle safety by completing mileage logs and reporting maintenance needs

4. Team Leadership & Peer Support

• Act as shift lead, providing guidance and direction to DSPs
• Serve as first point of contact for DSPs during the shift when the House Supervisor is off-site or unavailable
• Help train, mentor, and orient new staff on daily routines and HNA policies
• Monitor task completion (e.g., cleaning schedules, ISP tracking, daily logs)
• Communicate staff performance concerns or needs to the House Supervisor

5. Home Operations & Safety

• Support the House Supervisor in maintaining cleanliness, organization, and household structure
• Assist in conducting and documenting monthly fire drills and safety inspections
• Ensure availability of daily living supplies and report needed inventory
• Participate in menu planning and support adherence to dietary needs

6. Medical Support

• Accompany individuals to scheduled appointments and relay accurate information to supervisors and medical personnel
• Ensure accurate completion of Appointment Forms and medical documentation
• Communicate follow-up care, new prescriptions, or health concerns immediately to the House Supervisor

7. Emergency & Crisis Response

• Respond calmly and appropriately to emergencies including medical events, behavioral incidents, or safety concerns
• Follow established agency procedures and ISP protocols in emergency situations
• Ensure proper documentation and immediate notification to appropriate leadership

Minimum Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required
• At least 1 year of experience as a Direct Support Professional or in a related field
• Must be 18 years or older
• Valid Pennsylvania Driver’s License with a clean driving record
• Completion of all required clearances and physical (including TB screening)
• Successful completion of required trainings (including Medication Administration within first 60 days)
• Familiarity with Therap for reviewing care plans and internal communication
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and perform physical tasks associated with direct care

Desired Competencies

• Leadership and coaching abilities
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Dependable, organized, and proactive
• Understanding of 6400 regulations and individual rights
• Commitment to person-centered care and dignity of all individuals served

Working Conditions

• Work takes place in a residential group home setting
• Must be available to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as scheduled
• Rotating weekday and weekend shifts are required to meet individual and agency needs; flexibility is essential.
• Must be available to respond to urgent calls during scheduled shifts
• May be required to assist with emergencies in other homes based on agency protocol and supervisor directions

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $16.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Flexible schedule
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Ability to Commute:

• Pittsburgh, PA 15235 (Required)

Work Location: In person