Direct Support Professional (DSP) - Residential Group Home for Boys Job Overview We are seeking dependable, compassionate, patient, and experienced Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to join our residential team serving boys ages 8-17. Our program provides a structured, supportive residential environment for youth who may have behavioral, developmental, emotional, and/or other support needs. DSPs play an important role in maintaining a safe environment while helping each resident develop positive behaviors, independence, social skills, and daily living skills. We are looking for individuals who have experience working with children or adolescents, particularly those who have worked in residential programs, group homes, behavioral health, foster care, youth services, developmental disability services, or similar settings. This position requires someone who can establish appropriate boundaries, follow directions and individualized plans, remain calm during challenging situations, and treat every child with dignity and respect. Schedule Our residents attend day treatment programs Monday through Friday, so DSPs primarily provide support during the afternoon, evening, overnight, and weekend hours.
Available shifts include:
4:00 PM - 11:00 PM 12:00 AM - 8:00 AM Weekend shifts may also be available/required based on program needs. Responsibilities As a DSP, you will: Provide direct supervision and support to boys ages 8-17. Maintain a safe, structured, clean, and positive residential environment. Assist residents with daily routines and age-appropriate life skills. Encourage independence, responsibility, appropriate communication, and positive decision-making. Follow individualized support and behavioral plans. Provide appropriate redirection and support when behavioral challenges occur. Use approved de-escalation and crisis-response techniques when necessary. Monitor and document resident behaviors, activities, incidents, and progress. Assist with meals, household routines, recreation, homework, personal care, and other daily activities as assigned. Participate in recreational activities and community outings. Transport residents to appointments, activities, school-related events, or other approved destinations when assigned. Maintain appropriate professional boundaries with residents at all times. Protect the privacy, dignity, rights, and confidentiality of residents. Communicate important information to supervisors and other members of the care team. Follow all program policies, procedures, safety requirements, and applicable regulations. Participate in staff meetings and required training. Perform other duties related to the safe and effective operation of the residential program. Medication Responsibilities DSPs may be required to assist with medication-related responsibilities after completing required training and authorization. Medication responsibilities will be performed according to program policies, training, and applicable requirements. No prior medication certification is necessarily required—we provide required training.
Qualifications Required/Preferred Qualifications:
Previous experience working with children, adolescents, or youth is strongly preferred. Experience in a group home, residential program, behavioral health, foster care, youth services, developmental disability services, or similar setting is highly valued. Experience working with youth who have behavioral or developmental support needs is preferred. Ability to maintain professional boundaries with children and adolescents. Ability to remain calm, patient, and professional during challenging situations. Strong communication and observation skills. Reliable attendance and punctuality. Ability to follow written and verbal instructions. Ability to complete required training. Ability to pass required background checks and meet applicable employment requirements. Valid driver's license and ability to safely operate a passenger vehicle when transportation duties are assigned. Training & Development Paid Orientation Paid Training We believe our staff should be properly prepared before taking on the responsibilities of the position. New employees will receive required orientation and training, including training related to the needs of the youth we serve and medication responsibilities when applicable. Employee Referral Program We are also offering an Employee Referral Program. If an employee refers a qualified individual who is hired and meets the requirements of the referral program, the referring employee may be eligible to receive a referral bonus. Referral bonus terms and eligibility will be provided by the employer. What We Are Looking For The right person for this position is more than someone who simply wants a job. We are looking for someone who understands that working with youth requires patience, consistency, accountability, compassion, and strong boundaries. You should be comfortable working as part of a team, following established procedures, documenting what happens during your shift, and helping create an environment where young people feel safe, supported, and encouraged to succeed. If you have experience working with youth and are looking for an opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of children and adolescents, we encourage you to apply.
Pay:
$16.00 - $17.50 per hour
Benefits:
Health insurance Opportunities for advancement Paid orientation Paid time off Paid training Referral program