Direct Support Professional

Job Title: Direct Support Professional

Department: Residential Services

Position: Full-Time, 35-40 hours per week

About Us

Since 2018, Acceptance has been making waves as a small but mighty APD provider in the State of Florida, dedicated to improving the lives of adolescents and adults with developmental disabilities. We're all about personalized care, fostering independence, and creating real opportunities for social connection.

Description:

Are you someone who thrives in a fast-paced, dynamic environment? Do you love rolling up your sleeves, taking initiative, and making a real impact in people's lives? If so, we want you on our team

At Acceptance, our DSPs are the heartbeat of what we do—empowering individuals, creating meaningful connections, and ensuring that every day is filled with purpose and support. Whether you're guiding daily routines, navigating challenges, or celebrating milestones, your role is all about making a difference.

If you're someone who embraces hands-on work, adapts to new situations with confidence, and brings energy and positivity to everything you do, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today and be part of a team that values passion, purpose, and people

A Block Day Shift Hours:

Week 1: Sunday (9:00am – 9:00pm), Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday (1:30pm – 11:00pm)

Week 2: Sunday (9:00am – 9:00pm), Monday & Tuesday (1:30pm – 9:00pm)

B Block Day Shift Hours:

Week 1: Thursday, Friday (1:30pm – 9:00pm), & Saturday (9:00am – 9:00pm)

Week 2: Wednesday, Thursday, Friday (1:30pm – 11:00pm), & Saturday (9:00am – 9:00pm)

Role & Responsibilities:

Direct Support

• Provide personal care assistance, including but not limited to toileting, bathing, dressing, hygiene, and mobility support.
• Encourage and support client independence while offering choices throughout daily activities.
• Assist with daily living skills, behavior plans, and service goals to promote self-sufficiency.
• Ensure clients' health and safety by monitoring and reporting medical or personal care needs.
• Perform daily housekeeping duties, including washing dishes, laundry, trash disposal, and general cleaning.
• Ensure a safe and clean living environment for clients by maintaining hygiene and organization.

Community Engagement

• Foster positive social interactions by facilitating leisure activities and community inclusion.
• Plan and engage clients in recreational activities that encourage socialization and skill-building.
• Transport clients to community outings, training centers, and medical appointments while adhering to safety protocols.

Health & Safety

• Ensure safe meal preparation, including dietary restrictions, adaptive feeding techniques, and mealtime assistance.
• Observe and report health and safety issues, taking appropriate action to correct concerns.
• Follow all emergency procedures, including response during drills and natural disasters.
• Report all incidents of suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation to the Abuse Hotline.

Compliance

• Accurately document client progress, program activities, health status, and other necessary records in a timely manner.
• Maintain compliance with all organizational policies, local laws, and HIPAA guidelines.
• Participate in training programs and complete required certifications to stay compliant with agency standards.

Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or GED (required); Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Human Services, Psychology, Social Work, or a related field (preferred)
• Must be 21 years or older
• Possess a valid and current Florida Driver's License with a clean driving record
• Minimum of one (1) year of experience working with individuals with intellectual, developmental, or behavioral disabilities (including children, adolescents, or adults)
• Ability to pass Local Law & Level II background check
• Availability to complete all required training, including crisis intervention, medication administration, and first aid/CPR certification

Successful Skills For This Role

• Ability to take initiative, lead engaging group activities, and advocate for clients in achieving their personal and developmental goals
• Comfortable working directly with individuals in dynamic, sometimes physically and emotionally demanding settings
• Strong ability to remain calm under pressure, quickly assess situations, and respond with appropriate interventions
• Ability to assist clients in various activities, including recreational, vocational, or daily living tasks that may require moderate physical activity
• Strong verbal and written communication skills to effectively work with a multidisciplinary team, families, and external support agencies
• Must maintain HIPAA compliance, uphold professional boundaries, and safeguard client privacy at all times
• Ability to work effectively in a diverse environment and ensure clients feel respected, valued, and supported

Our Commitment:

At Acceptance, we are dedicated to fostering a workplace that values diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. We believe that a truly inclusive environment empowers individuals from all backgrounds, experiences, and identities to thrive. Our commitment goes beyond representation—we actively create spaces where every team member feels heard, respected, and supported.

As we continue to grow, we recognize that building an inclusive culture is an ongoing journey. We are committed to learning, evolving, and ensuring that our workforce reflects the communities we serve. At Acceptance, we don't just accept differences—we celebrate them, because we know that true progress happens when we embrace the power of diverse perspectives.