Direct Support Professional- Residential Services

Lafayette, LA (Residential Program) - Lafayette, LA 70506

About the Role

As a Direct Support Professional (DSP) at Arc of Acadiana, you will support individuals in our Community Group Homes, where a small group of residents (generally up to eight individuals) live together in a home-like setting. DSPs play a critical role in promoting safety, dignity, independence, and quality of life by supporting daily routines, personal care, and community involvement.

This is meaningful, hands-on work that requires reliability, compassion, and teamwork. You will receive training and ongoing support to help you succeed in the role. Direct Support Professionals must be at least 21 years of age and may be assigned to work at different residential homes as needed to support staffing and operational requirements.

Starting Pay Rate: $12.50 Day/Evening $9.50/$10.75 Night Full-time and Part-time Available Day, Evening and Night Shifts

What You'll Do

Support Residents in Daily Life

• Assist residents with activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, feeding, mobility, and personal hygiene.
• Encourage independence, choice, and participation while providing appropriate supervision and support.
• Support residents in building daily living, social, and functional skills based on individual plans.

Ensure Safety & Supervision

• Remain with residents at all times while on duty; residents are not to be left alone.
• Remain awake and alert during all assigned shifts, including overnight shifts, to take prompt and appropriate action in the event of injury, illness, fire, or other emergencies.
• Follow all safety procedures, emergency protocols, and evacuation procedures as trained.
• Promote the health, safety, and welfare of each resident at all times.

Health, Medication & Wellness Support

• Assist with medication administration after completing required training and certification.
• Observe residents for changes in health, behavior, or condition and report concerns promptly.
• Follow infection control and universal precautions as trained.

Household & Sanitation Responsibilities

• Assist with meal preparation in accordance with approved menus and diet orders.
• Prepare and serve food using appropriate utensils and portioning tools.
• Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of kitchens, food preparation areas, bathrooms, and common spaces.
• Ensure proper handling, storage, and disposal of food as instructed.
• Assist with cleaning, laundry, and maintaining a safe and orderly home environment.

Documentation, Communication & Incident Reporting

• Complete required documentation accurately and on time, including progress notes, objectives, logs, shift reports, and incident reports.
• Communicate important information during shift changes to ensure continuity of care.
• Promptly report incidents, injuries, medical concerns, or unusual occurrences to the Manager On-Call or Home Manager in accordance with agency procedures.
• Maintain confidentiality of all resident and agency information.

Community Inclusion & Transportation

• Support residents in participating in community activities, appointments, and outings as assigned.
• Operate Arc of Acadiana vehicles, including vans, to transport residents as required. Driving is an essential function of this position and must be performed in accordance with agency policy.

Teamwork & Professional Conduct

• Work collaboratively with Home Managers, supervisors, and fellow DSPs.
• Attend required staff meetings, trainings, and in-service education.
• Communicate respectfully and professionally with residents, families, coworkers, and community partners.

Training & Support You'll Receive

• Required safety and residential training
• Certified Medication Administration (CMA) training within six (6) months of hire and state testing support
• Ongoing guidance and support from Home Managers and leadership

Qualifications

What We're Looking For

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Must be at least 21 years of age
• Previous experience providing direct support, caregiving, or similar work is preferred, but not required
• Dependable, caring, and able to work as part of a team
• Able to follow instructions and use good judgment
• Good communication skills
• A valid driver's license is required when assigned to homes requiring transportation support. Driving Arc of Acadiana vehicles, including vans, may be an essential function of this position
• Availability to work evenings, nights, weekends, holidays, and varying shifts as needed

Benefits & What We Offer

• Competitive pay and stable scheduling
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance for eligible employees
• Paid time off, sick time
• Retirement plan options for eligible employees
• Employee assistance and wellness resources
• Ongoing training and opportunities for growth

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, lift, and assist residents with mobility and daily activities
• Ability to remain awake and alert during assigned shifts
• Ability to respond quickly and appropriately in emergency situations

Work Environment

• Community Group Home residential setting
• Direct interaction with residents in a shared living environment
• Flexible scheduling based on program and staffing needs