Direct Support Professional (DSP)
Company: Breakthrough Corporation
Location: Knoxville
Posted on: January 18, 2026
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Job Description:
Job Description Job Description Description: Summary DSP staff
assists people with autism in community living and community
services, modeling and teaching skills, participating in
recreational activities, providing transportation, supporting
people on jobs, and helping people achieve personal outcomes. The
DSP job title includes various work assignments including: personal
assistant, job coach, community living staff, community services
staff, behavior aide, and recreation staff. Specialized training
may be required for particular assignments. DSP’s are part of a
professional team responsible for assisting each individual to live
a safe, enjoyable life in their community with opportunities to
learn and to exercise increasing independence and control over
their lives. Scope This direct support position is responsible for
the provision of day-to-day services to program participants.
Responsibilities (these may vary based on assignment) Supervision
of persons supported. Providing training in Activities of Daily
Living (ADL’s). Documentation of services. Transportation. Crisis
Intervention. Implementation of specialized plans of care.
Maintaining the home and grounds in a level of excellence. Treat
all individuals with dignity and respect. Support individuals to
take control of their lives, to make wise decisions that enhance
their ability to reach their goals. Support individuals to take on
as much control as possible over the routines and activities in
their home. Teach, assist and support individuals in the community
and at home so that the individual is able to learn, practice and
master skills that enable him/her to enhance his/her status by
assuming socially valued roles. Support each individual’s existing
relationships and increase their networks of friends and
acquaintances. Ensure that all individuals are supported to explore
and express their interest for community membership. Oversight of
health and welfare of the person supported. To ensure that the
health and well-being of individuals are met by accompanying
individuals on appointments as needed, administering medications
(or supporting them to self-medicate) in accordance with policy,
providing a well-balanced diet prepared to meet individual needs
(when applicable), following all instructions given by health
professionals. Complete agency training program in a timely manner
and participate in other professional development as required by
supervisor. Implement ISP action steps and staff instructions as
written and at the frequency stated in the plan. Demonstrate
accurate data collection procedures and consistent use of described
support strategies that promote success. Maintain all required
certifications such as medication administration, First Aid & CPR,
etc., Assist the individuals with household shopping and
maintenance as necessary, providing ongoing opportunity for
individuals to assume increasing control, responsibility. Attend
and participate actively in staff meetings. Facilitate teamwork
between all team members via open communication, sharing of
responsibilities and a positive, constructive attitude. Follow all
agency policies. Perform additional duties as required or directed.
Carry out all responsibilities professionally and efficiently. Work
in harmony with all agency staff as well as staff of outside
entities. Requirements: Qualifications/Abilities HS Diploma or GED
required. Unexpired Drivers License & proof of vehicle insurance
required. DSP’s must: meet all requirements of licensing,
regulatory and accrediting entities; possess a valid driver’s
license; be able to work in close harmony with other staff in a
team environment; be able to read and write and follow verbal and
written instructions; present an objective outlook at all times;
present an acceptable and morally upstanding character as well as
physical appearance; be alert and observant during duty hours; have
no restriction in areas of lifting(50lbs) on occasion, bending or
prolonged standing; demonstrate a commitment to assisting people
with developmental disabilities to participate fully in the life of
their community; have a safe vehicle and good driving record,
adequate vehicle insurance, current driver’s license; possess
varied interests and personal connections in the local community;
have a proven record of conscientious, responsible behavior (work,
volunteer or school history); be able to work as part of a team.
OVERTIME STATUS: Non-Exempt
Keywords: Breakthrough Corporation, Cleveland , Direct Support Professional (DSP), Social Services , Knoxville, Tennessee
