Direct Support Professional (Full-time or Part-time) at Above Expectations, LLC – Harrington, Delaware

About Above Expectations, LLC

At Above Expectations, we believe support is more than a service — it’s a relationship built on dignity, compassion, and possibility. We provide person-centered residential services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities across Delaware, helping each person build independence, meaningful connections, and a life they’re proud of. Our team celebrates small wins, creates big opportunities, and shows up every day ready to make a difference.

If you’re passionate about helping others, thrive in a purpose-driven environment, and want your work to truly matter, you’ll feel at home here. At Above Expectations, every role has impact, every voice is valued, and every day is a chance to serve with heart.

Be the Difference in Someone’s Every Day

At Above Expectations, our Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) are the heart of our residential homes. This isn’t just a job — it’s an opportunity to build meaningful relationships, advocate for others, and empower individuals to reach their highest potential.

We’re looking for compassionate, dependable, and motivated individuals who are ready to show up with patience, positivity, and purpose. Someone who understands that growth takes consistency. Someone who believes dignity and respect should guide every interaction. Someone who wants their work to matter — every single shift.

What You'll Do

As a Direct Support Professional, you will provide hands-on support to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in a residential setting. Your role will combine advocacy, daily living support, documentation, safety, and community engagement. In this role, you will:

Individual Support & Daily Living

• Support individuals in achieving goals outlined in their Person-Centered Plan (PCP) and Behavior Support Plan (BSP)
• Assist with activities of daily living such as dressing or hygiene needs
• Promote independence while providing appropriate levels of supervision
• Establish positive, respectful relationships with individuals, families, and guardians
• Provide crisis support using approved intervention techniques (MANDT)

Medication & Health Support

• Maintain Approved LLAM Medication Status and administer medications in accordance with LLAM protocol
• Complete medication documentation accurately and consistently
• Successfully complete supervised medication passes and required certifications within the probationary period
• Monitor and report health concerns or changes

Documentation & Compliance

• Document significant shift events and observations in the Electronic Record
• Safeguard individuals’ funds and complete required documentation
• Report incidents in accordance with DDDS and company policies
• Maintain confidentiality and adhere to HIPAA requirements
• Complete required Relias trainings, in-person trainings, and staff meetings

Household & Community Engagement

• Complete daily household duties including cleaning, laundry, meal preparation, and shopping
• Drive agency fleet vehicles to transport individuals to appointments and community activities
• Assist with planning outings and meaningful activities
• Advocate for individuals both in the home and in the community
• Ensure a safe, clean, and supportive living environment

Who You Are

You’re someone who believes every person deserves respect, opportunity, and compassionate support. You show up on time. You follow through. You stay calm in challenging situations and approach others with empathy and professionalism.

You understand that working in this field requires both heart and accountability. You’re dependable, willing to learn, and committed to growing your skills so you can better serve the individuals in your care.

• Must be at least 18 years of age
• High School Diploma or GED required
• Valid driver’s license with clean driving record (required to transport individuals in agency vehicles)
• Ability to pass a 5-panel drug screen (including scrrening for THC in accordance with State of Delaware and DDDS regulations)
• Ability to obtain an eligible criminal background determination from Delaware State Police
• One year of experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities preferred
• CPR, First Aid, MANDT, and LLAM certifications preferred (training provided if not currently certified)

All new Direct Support Professionals complete a structured onboarding program designed to set you up for success.

This includes:

• One full week of orientation (Monday–Friday 9am-3pm)
• Shadowing shifts the following week (minimum of two shifts 9am-2pm)
• Completion of required certifications and training (LLAM, CPR, First Aid, MANDT, Relias courses)

If you already hold current certifications, portions of orientation may be adjusted accordingly. Successful completion of training is required to maintain employment.

Schedule, Work Environment & Physical Expectations

This position is based in our residential group homes in Kent and Sussex county, Delaware. Most of our full-time roles follow a consistent 12-hour rotation schedule designed to promote stability for the individuals we serve.

Typical Full-Time Rotations Include:

Frontend Rotation:

Every Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, and every other Wednesday

7:00am–7:00pm or 7:00pm–7:00am

Backend Rotation:

Every Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and every other Wednesday

7:00am–7:00pm or 7:00pm–7:00am

These rotations provide built-in extended days off while maintaining consistency for the individuals in our care. Reliable attendance, punctuality, and flexibility are essential in this role.

Part-time opportunities may follow modified versions of these schedules based on operational needs. Please note that while the majority of our homes follow this structure, some schedules may vary depending on individual support needs.

To safely and effectively perform this role, you should be able to:

• Provide physical assistance with mobility and daily living tasks
• Stand, walk, bend, lift, and move throughout the home during your shift
• Lift or assist with transfers as needed
• Drive agency vehicles safely
• Navigate behavioral or crisis situations with composure
• Follow universal precautions to maintain health and safety

What You’ll Love About Working Here

• Weekly pay to help you stay on top of your financial goals
• Comprehensive benefits for eligible employees, including medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) with employer match after one year of service (eligibility requirements apply)
• Paid time off for eligible employees to support work–life balance
• Company-paid life insurance, with voluntary options for additional coverage (for eligible employees)
• Optional short-term and long-term disability coverage for added peace of mind
• A meaningful role where your work directly supports the individuals we serve and the team around you
• A warm, mission-driven culture focused on teamwork, growth, and doing what’s right
• Opportunities to learn, grow, and make a positive impact every day

Equal Employment Opportunity and ADA Accommodation Statement

Above Expectations is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law.

Above Expectations is committed to ensuring equal access and opportunities for individuals with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation during the application or hiring process, please contact our Human Resources department so we can assist you. We will work with applicants to meet their accessibility needs in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and applicable state laws.