The Direct Support Professional provides individualized care and support to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, promoting their independence and well-being. Responsibilities include personal care, medication administration, documentation, and participation in recreational activities.
Requirements summary
Candidates must be at least 18 years old and possess a high school diploma or equivalent. They should also be able to pass a drug screening and obtain a criminal record clearance.
high schoolTeamworkCompassionInterpersonal SkillsCommunicationTime ManagementDocumentationMedication AdministrationTrainingSafety ProtocolsEmergency ResponseMotivationHealth MonitoringPersonal CareDietary NeedsIndependence PromotionRecreational Support
Job description
Join our dedicated team at Mountain Shadows and help make a lasting impact on the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities. We are looking for compassionate and motivated individuals to join our team as Direct Support Professional at Mountain Shadows Community Homes in Escondido. As a caregiver, you'll play a vital role in enhancing the quality of life for the residents in our care by providing support in their daily activities, offering training, and promoting social engagement.
Position summary
Under the supervision of the Qualified Intellectual Disabilities Professional (QIDP) and Residential Coordinator, the Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides individualized care and support to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. DSPs promote independence, dignity, and well-being while ensuring safety and compliance with regulatory standards in a residential setting.
Essential functions
Provide personal care, including bathing, toileting, dressing, grooming, and feeding.
Support daily routines and active treatment programs to foster resident independence.
Prepare meals, snacks and drinks in accordance with individual dietary needs and restrictions.
Administer medications and treatments as outlined in the Medication Administration Record (MAR) and physician orders.
Accurately complete all required documentation in
Therap, including:
ISP data
Medication administration
Seizure logs
General event reports (GERs)
Intake and elimination records
Incident reports
Vitals, time tracking, and T-Logs
Recognize and report health changes, including emergency responses (e.g., cardiopulmonary distress).
Assist with medical procedures such as:
Taking vital signs
Administering enemas, suppositories
Supporting specimen collection
Accurately complete medical documentation and follow infection control protocols.
Participate as an active member of the resident’s Interdisciplinary Team (IDT).
Maintain a safe, clean, and organized environment per Title XXII regulations, including housekeeping, laundry, and sanitation duties.
Identify and report changes in resident conditions to the RN or physician.
Escorts residents to recreational activities and medical appointments and provides assistance to day program buses.
Communicate effectively with residents, families, conservators, staff, and community partners.
Support recreation and leisure activities tailored to individual interests.
Participate in fire drills, emergency procedures, and monthly safety training.
Report maintenance, safety concerns, and on-the-job injuries promptly.
Complete required monthly training (minimum of 3 hours).
Split Shift Hours • 5
30 AM – 9:30
AM and 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM Split Shift
6:00 AM – 10:00
AM and 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM Split Shift
6:00 AM – 10:00
AM and 2:30 PM – 6:30 PM Split Shift
Please note that on weekend and holidays the split shift is a straight through shift: 5:30 AM – 1:30 PM Shift 6:00 AM – 2:00 PM 6:30 AM – 2:30 PM 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM 7:30 AM – 3:30PM
Now hiring for the following shifts
4:00p-8:00p; 2:30p-10:30p; 10:30p-6:30a (overnight) We also have weekend only shifts available.
Requirements: & Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications
Must be at least 18 years old.
High school diploma or equivalent.
Ability to pass a drug/alcohol screening.
Must obtain a criminal record clearance through the California Department of Public Health.
Must be able to work independently and as part of a team.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Proficient in reading, writing, and communicating in English.
Strong time management and prioritization skills.
Ability to follow written and verbal directions.
Comfort with using Therap software.
Strong interpersonal and teamwork skills.
Certifications (Required or Attainable Within 90 Days of Hire)
CPR Certification ((maintained throughout employment)
Medication Administration Certification
Physical Requirements
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs independently.
Frequent bending, standing, walking, stooping, kneeling, and reaching.
Ability to assist residents in transfers (e.g., from bed to wheelchair, toilet, etc.).
Use of lifting and mobility assistance devices when necessary.
Additional Notes
DSPs may be temporarily or permanently assigned to different residential homes based on operational needs.
Training will be provided for specialized care and documentation tools.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Mountain Shadows Community Homes is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity/expression), age, marital status, status as a protected veteran, status as a qualified individual with disability or any other protected class.
