Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Direct Support Professional (DSP) – Community & Volunteer Skills
Location: Emerson/Bergen County, NJ
Schedule: Part-time, Tuesday–Thursday, approximately 15 hours per week

Hearten is seeking a patient, dependable, and energetic Direct Support Professional to support an adult woman with developmental disabilities in building greater independence, confidence, and connection to her community.

This is a one-to-one, community-based position. The DSP will help identify and participate in volunteer opportunities, develop prevocational and daily living skills, and maintain a meaningful weekly routine. The ideal candidate is proactive, calm under pressure, and able to build a supportive relationship while maintaining clear and consistent expectations.

Responsibilities

• Plan and participate in structured community activities and volunteer experiences

• Help identify volunteer placements that match the individual’s interests and abilities

• Encourage regular physical activity, including supervised walks

• Maintain continuous line-of-sight supervision in the community

• Follow the individual’s Behavior Support Plan and all safety protocols

• Recognize signs of anxiety or emotional escalation and respond with calm, respectful redirection

• Provide access to a quiet space and preferred calming activities when appropriate

• Communicate respectfully and avoid confrontational interactions

• Monitor dietary guidelines while providing support in the community

• Assist the individual during emergencies and community evacuations

• Document services, progress, activities, behavioral concerns, and notable events accurately

• Complete EVV requirements and communicate regularly with the Hearten supervisory team

• Respect the individual’s rights, preferences, privacy, dignity, and cultural and religious choices

The Individual

The individual enjoys social interaction, music, coloring, reading, and participating in the community. She benefits from staying engaged through a predictable schedule and meaningful activities. At times, she may experience anxiety, excessive crying, verbal aggression, difficulty accepting limits, or attempts to walk away. She responds best to a friendly, patient, and respectful approach.

Qualifications

• Previous DSP, behavioral health, mental health, or developmental-disability experience strongly preferred

• Experience supporting individuals with anxiety, verbal aggression, or behavioral escalation preferred

• Ability to remain patient, composed, and respectful during challenging situations

• Reliable, punctual, and able to work consistently Tuesday through Thursday

• Proactive and creative in planning volunteer and community activities

• Valid driver’s license, reliable vehicle, and acceptable driving record

• Ability to safely transport the individual in the community

• Smartphone and ability to complete electronic documentation and EVV

• High school diploma or equivalent

• Must pass all required background and driving-record checks

• CPR/First Aid and NJ DDD-required training preferred; training may be provided

Benefits

• Competitive hourly compensation

• Weekly pay

• Paid time off and 401(k), subject to eligibility

• Support from an experienced administrative and clinical team

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys helping individuals build practical skills, participate meaningfully in their community, and experience success through structured, person-centered support.

• Teach foundational work skills, including following directions, staying on task, completing routines, taking turns, and interacting appropriately with others

• Support community skills such as shopping, ordering food, handling money, making choices, and using public resources