About the role
Tailored Support Services is hiring compassionate Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to provide community-based and in-home support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) throughout Pennsylvania.
As a DSP, you will empower individuals to live fulfilling, self-directed lives by assisting with daily living skills, community integration, and the implementation of Individual Support Plans (ISPs). This role operates under the Pennsylvania Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) guidelines and the Everyday Lives framework.
This is a meaningful career where every day you make a direct, positive impact on someone's life, helping them build independence, develop skills, and participate fully in their community.
What you'll do
- Provide person-centered support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in home and community settings
- Implement Individual Support Plans (ISPs) and document progress toward individual goals
- Assist individuals with daily living activities including personal care, hygiene, meal preparation, and household management
- Support community integration by accompanying individuals to appointments, social activities, employment, volunteering, and recreational outings
- Administer or supervise self-administration of medications per PA ODP Medication Administration guidelines
- Promote skill development in areas such as communication, social interaction, self-advocacy, and independent living
- Maintain accurate, timely documentation including daily notes, incident reports, and progress records in compliance with ODP regulations
- Communicate regularly with the support team, supervisors, families, and Supports Coordinators
- Follow all agency policies, ODP regulations, and 55 Pa. Code Chapter 6400/6500 standards
- Participate in required ongoing training (minimum 24 hours annually per ODP requirements)
- Respond appropriately to emergencies and implement behavioral support strategies as trained
- Transport individuals safely using personal or agency vehicles
What you'll need
- High school diploma or GED required
- Must be 18 years of age or older
- Valid Pennsylvania driver's license with an acceptable driving record
- Must obtain and maintain all required PA clearances:
- Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Background Check
- Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Clearance
- FBI Federal Criminal History (fingerprinting)
- Must complete ODP-required training (approximately 65 hours), including Everyday Lives curriculum
- Medication Administration certification (or willingness to obtain)
- CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)
- Prior experience supporting individuals with IDD preferred but not required, we welcome entry-level candidates
- Strong interpersonal, communication, and documentation skills
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and assist with mobility as needed
- Reliable transportation required
- Must be available to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and some holidays as needed
Pay & benefits
- Competitive pay: $21.00/hour
- ODP-required training (approximately 65 hours), no experience necessary to start
- Health, dental, and vision insurance options
- Flexible scheduling
- Overtime opportunities available
- Medication Administration training required
- CPR/First Aid certification required
- Career advancement opportunities into Lead DSP, Supervisor, and Program Coordinator roles
- Supportive team environment with ongoing mentorship
- Meaningful work, make a real difference in someone's life every day
Tailored Support Services is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applicants of every background and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status or any other protected characteristic.