At Allegheny Alliance, we are committed to providing person-centered, high-quality care that empowers individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) to live fulfilling, independent lives. As a Direct Support Professional (DSP), you will play a crucial role in delivering home and community-based supports in alignment with Pennsylvania’s Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) regulations. You will assist individuals in daily living, skill development, community integration, and personal advocacy, ensuring they receive compassionate, dignified support that promotes independence and inclusion.
Key Responsibilities
Individualized Support & Personal Care
- Provide direct care and assistance in accordance with each individual’s Individual Support Plan (ISP), ensuring services align with their personal goals, choices, and preferences.
- Assist with activities of daily living (ADLs), including bathing, grooming, dressing, toileting, mobility, and eating, respecting the individual’s dignity and autonomy.
- Foster independent living skills, including meal preparation, budgeting, housekeeping, and personal organization, encouraging self-sufficiency.
Behavioral Support & Skill Development
- Implement Positive Behavior Support (PBS) strategies, reinforcing positive behaviors and fostering self-regulation in accordance with individualized Behavioral Support Plans (BSPs).
- Support individuals in developing social, communication, and problem-solving skills, enhancing their ability to navigate relationships and daily interactions.
- Utilize trauma-informed approaches to care, ensuring that interactions and interventions are compassionate, individualized, and person-centered.
Community Integration & Inclusion
- Encourage and facilitate active participation in community activities, including social outings, volunteer opportunities, recreational events, and employment-related activities.
- Provide transportation and accompaniment to medical appointments, community events, and employment programs, ensuring individuals can safely and confidently engage in their communities.
- Promote self-advocacy and decision-making, supporting individuals in exploring and achieving personal goals.
Health, Safety, & Medication Support
- Monitor and document individuals’ health status, medication administration, and medical appointments, ensuring compliance with ODP’s Health & Safety protocols.
- Assist with medication administration following ODP’s Medication Administration Training Program guidelines (if required by the provider).
- Maintain a safe, clean, and supportive environment, adhering to infection control measures, risk management procedures, and safety protocols.
Documentation, Compliance, & Reporting
- Maintain accurate, timely, and confidential documentation of services provided, observations, and progress notes in compliance with ODP, DHS, and organizational policies.
- Report Unusual Incidents (UIs) through the Enterprise Incident Management (EIM) system in accordance with ODP’s Incident Management protocols.
- Follow HCBS Waiver requirements, ISP documentation standards, and provider policies to ensure regulatory compliance.
Advocacy & Person-Centered Support
- Advocate for individuals’ rights, preferences, and choices, ensuring their voices are heard in all aspects of their lives.
- Collaborate with families, guardians, Supports Coordinators (SCs), and interdisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive, person-centered care.
- Empower individuals to make informed decisions about their lives, fostering self-determination and autonomy.
Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent required; additional education in human services, psychology, social work, or related fields preferred.
- Experience working with individuals with IDD or in a direct care, behavioral health, or human services role is preferred but not required.
- Understanding of ODP’s Everyday Lives principles, Positive Behavior Support (PBS), and person-centered planning.
- Strong interpersonal, communication, and teamwork skills to engage effectively with individuals, families, and support teams.
- Compassionate, patient-centered approach with a commitment to promoting dignity, autonomy, and inclusion.
- Ability to adapt to changing needs, work independently, and maintain professional boundaries.
- Valid driver’s license and clean driving record may be required for positions involving transportation.
- Completion of all required trainings under ODP regulations, including Mandated Reporter training, First Aid/CPR certification, and Medication Administration Training (if applicable).
Why Join Allegheny Alliance?
As a DSP at Allegheny Alliance, you are more than a caregiver, you are a mentor, advocate, and essential part of someone’s journey toward independence and fulfillment. Our team provides a supportive, mission-driven environment where you can grow professionally and personally while making a profound difference in the lives of others.
Apply today and be part of a team that values inclusion, respect, and person-centered care!
