Residential Services | Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities (IDD)

Location: New Jersey
Department: Residential Services
Reports To: Residential Manager
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides compassionate, person-centered support to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and behavioral health challenges in residential and community-based settings. Working as part of an interdisciplinary team, the DSP helps individuals develop life skills, achieve personal goals, maintain health and safety, and participate fully in their communities.

DSPs play a vital role in promoting dignity, independence, self-determination, and inclusion while providing services in accordance with each individual's Individual Service Plan (ISP), behavioral support strategies, agency policies, and regulatory requirements.

• Assist individuals with activities of daily living (ADLs), including:
  • Personal care and hygiene
  • Meal planning and preparation
  • Housekeeping and laundry
  • Household organization and maintenance
• Support individuals in developing independent living skills based on their goals and abilities.
• Encourage personal choice, self-advocacy, and self-determination.
• Provide supervision and guidance while maintaining dignity, privacy, and respect.
• Create and maintain a safe, supportive, and trauma-informed environment.

• Safely transport individuals to:
  • Medical appointments
  • Day programs
  • Recreational and community activities
  • Religious services
  • Family visits
  • Other approved destinations
• Support individuals in building meaningful relationships and community connections.
• Promote participation in activities that enhance social inclusion and quality of life.
• Follow all transportation policies and motor vehicle safety requirements.

• Monitor the health, safety, and well-being of individuals served.
• Administer medications and maintain accurate Medication Administration Records (MARs) in accordance with state regulations and agency policies.
• Implement healthcare-related plans and monitor for changes in health status.
• Respond appropriately to emergencies, behavioral incidents, and crisis situations.
• Report incidents, injuries, safety concerns, and suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation in accordance with agency procedures and regulatory requirements.
• Maintain current CPR, First Aid, and other required certifications.

• Implement Individual Service Plans (ISPs), Individual Habilitation Plans (IHPs), and Behavior Support Plans (BSPs).
• Teach and reinforce skills that promote independence, personal growth, and community integration.
• Monitor progress toward established goals and outcomes.
• Assist with assessments and provide feedback regarding individual strengths, needs, and progress.
• Collaborate with Residential Managers, Lead DSPs, families, and interdisciplinary team members to ensure quality support and service delivery.

• Complete accurate and timely documentation, including:
  • Daily logs and progress notes
  • Medication Administration Records (MARs)
  • Goal and outcome tracking
  • Incident reports
  • Behavioral documentation
  • Seizure, weight, bowel movement, and sleep/awake records
  • Fire drill documentation
  • Transportation and vehicle logs
  • Consumer funds documentation
• Maintain confidentiality and HIPAA compliance at all times.
• Ensure documentation meets agency, licensing, and regulatory standards.
• Participate in audits, inspections, and compliance reviews as needed.

• Attend and actively participate in staff meetings, trainings, and team discussions.
• Complete all required annual trainings and competency assessments.
• Assist with on-call responsibilities and emergency coverage as assigned.
• Support special projects and organizational initiatives.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required

• High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent.

Preferred

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Human Services, Psychology, Social Work, Special Education, or a related field.

Preferred

• Six (6) months to one (1) year of experience supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities or working in a human services environment.

• Must be at least 21 years of age.
• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
• Ability to pass all required background screenings and clearances.
• Successful completion of required onboarding, training, and certification programs.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building abilities.
• Ability to work effectively with individuals served, families, coworkers, and community partners.
• Knowledge of person-centered practices and trauma-informed care principles.
• Strong organizational, problem-solving, and time-management skills.
• Ability to recognize and respond appropriately to crisis situations.
• Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office, email, electronic documentation systems, and timekeeping platforms.
• Ability to work independently while maintaining accountability and professionalism.
• Commitment to confidentiality, ethical practices, and quality service delivery.

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, reach, and assist individuals throughout the workday.
• Ability to lift, transfer, and support individuals and equipment, including lifting up to 50 pounds with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Ability to drive for extended periods as required.
• Ability to work in residential homes and community-based environments.
• Ability to respond quickly and appropriately during emergency situations.

This position requires flexibility to meet the needs of the individuals served and may include:

• Day, evening, overnight, weekend, and holiday shifts
• Overtime opportunities as needed
• On-call responsibilities
• Emergency coverage and schedule adjustments based on program needs

As a Direct Support Professional, you will make a meaningful difference in the lives of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Your support will help individuals achieve greater independence, reach personal goals, build meaningful relationships, and actively participate in their communities.

Join a mission-driven team dedicated to creating a safe, supportive, and empowering environment where every individual has the opportunity to thrive.

Advancing Opportunities, Inc., an affiliate of Apis Services, Inc., is a leading New Jersey nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities and their families through innovative, person-centered programs and services.

Apis Services, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Inperium, Inc., provides administrative and shared services to a network of more than 30 nonprofit and for-profit organizations across the United States. Together, these organizations support thousands of individuals and families while creating rewarding career opportunities for employees nationwide.

Advancing Opportunities, Inc., Apis Services, Inc., and their affiliates are Equal Opportunity Employers and are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law.