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Helping people, changing lives

Employers are hiring direct support professionals in Lucas County

Become a direct support professional (DSP) and support people with developmental disabilities. It’s one of the fastest growing careers in Ohio!

DODD What Is A DSP

What is a direct support professional?

All DSPs help people live, learn, work and play in their communities.

DSPs support individuals where they live by:

  • Helping them live as independently as possible
  • Helping ensure they are healthy and safe
  • Helping with daily life activities like cooking, cleaning, dressing, bathing, shopping, transportation and community activities

DSPs support individuals during the day by:

  • Taking small groups into the community for volunteer and leisure activities
  • Teaching independence and safety skills
  • Encouraging them to try new things, make more choices, and get involved in more activities and hobbies

DSPs support individuals in finding and keeping jobs by:

  • Helping them identify talents, interests, goals and abilities to discover long-term jobs
  • Providing one-on-one marketing and recruitment services to connect them with employers
  • Providing job coaching, on-site support and training at employment sites
Man driving

What standards are expected of a direct support professional?

To work as a DSP, individuals must:

  • Be 18 years old. (Under currently waived rules, DSPs can be 16 or 17 and provide a limited scope of service.)
  • Have a valid social security number and either state of Ohio identification, a valid driver’s license or other government-issued photo identification.
  • Have a minimum of a high school diploma or general education development certificate. (This requirement may be waived for 16- or 17-year-olds.)
  • Be able to read, write and understand English.
  • Have a driving record with less than six points. (Some employment opportunities may be available for non-drivers.)
  • Have a background free of offenses that preclude employment. (Review this document for a current list of exclusions.)
  • Pass a drug screen. (This is required for those who drive to and from day services and per employer specific policy.)
  • Some employers may also require that applicants can lift 50 pounds or meet other physical standards.

How do I apply?

To become a DSP, complete the following form and select the provider to which you would like your information sent.

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