Direct Service Professional (DSP) (General Pool)
The Direct Service Professional (DSP) supports individuals with developmental and physical disabilities by assisting with daily activities, personal care, and community engagement. This role involves active supervision, implementing person-centered plans, facilitating group activities, and maintaining accurate documentation to promote participant independence and well-being. The position requires compassion, reliability, and a commitment to fostering meaningful experiences in a supportive team environment.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Social work.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Position Overview
Confidential Client is building a general candidate pool for Direct Service Professionals (DSP) across multiple Southern California locations. This is an entry-level friendly, hands-on role supporting children and adults with developmental or physical disabilities. Flexible schedules are available (full-time, part-time, per diem). Pay starts at $20.00 per hour. Applicants may be considered for current and future openings that match availability and program needs.
About the Role
As a Direct Service Professional (DSP), you will:
- Support participants with daily activities, personal goals, and community engagement.
- Build trusting relationships and promote independence and inclusion.
- Follow participant Person-Centered Plans (PCPs) and implement activity plans.
- Work collaboratively with teammates to plan and run group activities.
Key Responsibilities
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Programming & Participant Support
- Actively supervise participants to ensure safety, health, and engagement.
- Implement daily activities and lesson plans tied to PCP goals.
- Create inclusive, engaging group activities and contribute to monthly calendars.
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Documentation & Communication
- Complete accurate, timely documentation of participant progress.
- Report significant observations or concerns immediately.
- Maintain confidentiality and respect participants’ rights and dignity.
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Personal Care
- Assist with feeding, toileting, hygiene, transfers, and mobility supports as required (may include use of mechanical lifts).
- Support participants in aquatic or pool activities when needed.
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Community Outings & Transportation
- Supervise participants during outings to ensure safety and participation.
- Assist participants in accessing community volunteer opportunities.
- Drive or accompany participants on public transit when approved as an agency driver.
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Training & Development
- Complete required trainings (active supervision, behavior support, lifting/transferring, personal care, safety protocols).
- Participate in coaching and staff meetings to improve outcomes.
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Other Duties
- Serve as a mandated reporter and follow all safety and reporting procedures.
- Perform other duties as assigned to support the program mission.
Who We’re Looking For
- Compassionate, reliable people motivated to help others succeed.
- Experience in direct care, personal assistance, or related support roles is a plus but not required.
- Comfort with personal care tasks (feeding, hygiene, mobility assistance).
- Team players who lead with patience, consistency, and respect.
- Roles with similar experience: DSP, caregiver, behavioral technician, paraprofessional, CNA, home health aide, instructional aide, or related.
Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent experience preferred.
- 12 ECE units may be required for childcare-specific programs.
- 1–2 years working with individuals with developmental disabilities preferred.
- Ability to provide physical assistance (lifting/transferring) required.
- Willingness to participate in swimming and community activities required.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills required.
- Ability to work evenings/weekends as needed.
- Valid driver’s license preferred for driver positions.
- Ability to obtain First Aid/CPR certification.
- Successful completion of background check (LiveScan) and any required health clearances.
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
- Mixture of desk-based documentation and active, in-person support.
- Work takes place both indoors and outdoors, including community settings.
- May require lifting up to 50 pounds at times and extended periods on your feet.
Special Conditions & Compliance (California)
- Mandated reporting: This role is subject to California mandated reporter requirements under relevant child abuse and neglect reporting laws. Compliance is a condition of employment where applicable.
- Public health: Per California regulations for day care facilities, vaccination requirements (e.g., pertussis, measles, annual influenza verification or declination) may apply for employees working in certain programs.
- Pre-employment requirements: TB test, LiveScan fingerprint/background check, drug screening, required vaccinations (e.g., Hepatitis B, TDaP, MMR where applicable), and fitness-for-duty clearance may be required.
- Driver positions require DMV driving record, valid license, and proof of insurance; offers contingent on a satisfactory driving record.
Compensation & Benefits
- Pay: From $20.00 per hour (hourly wage range: $20–$20/hr as posted).
- Benefits (where eligible): medical (Kaiser), dental, vision, generous paid time off and paid holidays, employee discounts, and mileage/cellphone reimbursement where applicable.
- Paid training and career development opportunities in human services and behavioral health.
What to Expect from the Hiring Process
- Careertakes will support this recruitment as a third-party platform. Final hiring decisions are made by our client.
- Applicants may be considered for multiple openings that match qualifications and availability.
- Reasonable accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities during the application and interview process; please notify Careertakes if you need assistance.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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