DSP (Direct Support Professional)

Title:

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Department:

Program Services Reports To:

Vice President of Enrichment Services FLSA Classification:

Non-Exempt Work Location:

7209 Seawright Drive Savannah, GA 31406

Position Type:

Full-Time Effective Date:

May 1, 2026 About the

Organization:

EmployAbility is a mission-driven nonprofit dedicated to empowering individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) to live meaningful, self-directed lives. Through innovative programs, community partnerships, and employment pathways, we work to remove barriers to inclusion and expand opportunities for those we serve. As a growing organization committed to excellence, EmployAbility combines compassionate service with strategic leadership to deliver high-quality, person-centered supports that promote independence, community engagement, and long-term success. We believe every individual deserves the opportunity to thrive — and we are committed to building communities where ability is recognized, valued, and supported. About the

Role:

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) plays a vital role in advancing EmployAbility's mission by providing person-centered support that empowers individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live meaningful, engaged, and increasingly independent lives. DSPs foster community connection, promote skill development, and help create environments where participants feel respected, supported, and valued. As a frontline ambassador of the organization, the DSP combines compassion with professionalism — ensuring services are delivered safely, consistently, and in alignment with organizational standards. Success in this role requires reliability, sound judgment, adaptability, and a strong commitment to enhancing the participant experience.

Key Responsibilities:

Participant Support and Engagement:

1. Provide person-centered support that promotes independence, skill development, and community involvement. 2. Facilitate structured activities that enhance participants' social, vocational, and daily living skills. 3. Support participants in community-based experiences, including volunteer opportunities and recreational outings. 4. Assist with personal care needs while preserving dignity, privacy, and choice.

Health, Safety & Wellbeing:

1. Maintain a safe and supportive environment by following established health, safety, and transportation protocols. 2. Monitor participant wellbeing and respond appropriately to behavioral, medical, or environmental concerns. 3. Act promptly in emergency situations in accordance with organizational procedures.

Documentation & Compliance:

1. Complete progress notes, attendance records, and incident reports accurately and within required timeframes. 2. Support documentation quality by adhering to regulatory and organizational standards. 3. Utilize electronic systems appropriately to ensure accurate service records.

Communication & Team Collaboration:

1. Maintain open and professional communication with supervisors, colleagues, and care teams regarding participant progress and needs. 2. Contribute to a collaborative team environment focused on service excellence. 3. Share observations that support continuous improvement in participant care.

Professional Accountability:

1. Demonstrate reliability through consistent attendance, punctuality, and preparedness. 2. Uphold participant confidentiality and organizational policies. 3. Represent EmployAbility with professionalism in both onsite and community settings.

Competencies:

1. Maintains consistent attendance, preparedness, and accountability. 2. Demonstrates compassion and respect while supporting participant choice, independence, and dignity. 3. Communicates clearly and respectfully with participants, families, and team members. 4. Responds effectively to changing participant needs and dynamic environments. 5. Collaborates with colleagues to ensure coordinated and high-quality support. 6. Exercises sound judgment and follows protocols to maintain participant safety. 7. Effectively balances participant care, documentation, and daily responsibilities.

Minimum Qualifications:

1. High school diploma or equivalent. 2. Must have valid driver's license and current insurance. 3. Ability to pass required background screenings. 4. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and general office technology.

Preferred Qualifications:

1. Prior work experience in a similar professional environment. 2. Prior experience as Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA).

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements:

1. Must be able to move throughout program sites and community locations to monitor services and support participants. 2. Must be able to provide physical assistance to participants as needed, including supporting mobility, transfers, or safety interventions. 3. Must be able to operate agency vehicles or safely transport participants when required. 4. Must be able to respond appropriately and effectively during emergencies or behavioral situations. 5. Must be able to work a flexible schedule based on participant and program needs, which may include evenings or weekends. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.

Compensation & Benefits:

Compensation is competitive and commensurate with experience, education, and qualifications. This position is classified as non-exempt under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and is eligible for overtime compensation. EmployAbility offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support employee well-being and professional success. Benefits offerings for full-time employees include paid time off, paid holidays, access to medical, dental, and vision plans, retirement plan options, and professional development opportunities.

Additional Information:

This position will remain open until filled. EmployAbility reserves the right to close the posting at any time once a sufficient candidate pool has been identified. This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed and is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities. Duties may be modified at the discretion of leadership. EmployAbility is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers all qualified applicants without regard to protected characteristics.

Job Types:

Full-time, Part-time Pay:

From $15.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) Dental insurance Employee assistance program Employee discount Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Retirement plan Vision insurance

Education:

High school or equivalent (Required)

Experience:

direct care: 2 years (Preferred)

License/Certification:

Driver's License (Required) Ability to

Commute:

Savannah, GA 31406 (Required)

Work Location:

In person