New Horizons, Serving Individuals with Special Needs·Los Angeles, California
Provide person-centered training and support to individuals with developmental disabilities to promote independence and community inclusion. Responsibilities include implementing individualized program plans, monitoring health and safety, and delivering life skills instruction in various settings.
Are you passionate about helping individuals with special needs develop essential life skills and reach their full potential?
If so, New Horizons is looking for an engaging bilingual DSP and Life Skills Instructor to join our team.
New Horizons is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving individuals with special needs.
With over 60 years of experience, we are committed to enhancing their quality of life and promoting their independence and inclusion in the community.
In this role, you will be responsible for providing hands-on instruction and support to individuals with developmental disabilities in various life skills areas.
Bilingual – English / Spanish is a plus Experience working with adults with developmental disabilities is a plus, but not necessary.
We are willing to train the right candidate.
Full Time, Non-Exempt - 32 hours Monday-Friday, and 8 hours on a Saturday or Sunday (six-day work week).
$23.00/hr
SUMMARY: The Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides person-centered training, care, and support services to individuals with developmental disabilities in a variety of settings, including community-based programs, day programs, and in-home services. The DSP supports individuals in achieving goals identified in their Individual Program Plan (IPP) and/or Individual Support Plan (ISP), with a focus on independence, community integration, health and safety, and quality of life.
Essential/Core
DUTIES
AND
RESPONSIBILITIES include the following: Person-Centered Support & Skill Development
Implement ISP/IPP goals using individualized teaching strategies
Support development of: o Daily living skills o Communication and social skills o Self-advocacy and decision-making
Use prompting, modeling, and coaching techniques
Promote dignity and informed choice
Provide encouragement, coaching, instruction, mentoring, and advocacy to assist Members in achieving greater independence and inclusion. Health, Safety & Supervision
Promote health and safety by following agency protocols related to medication monitoring (if applicable), emergency procedures, incident reporting, and mandated reporting requirements.
Ensure safety and well-being of individuals at all times
Follow emergency procedures and safety protocols
Monitor and report health or behavioral concerns
Maintain appropriate supervision in all settings Behavioral Support
Implement behavior support strategies as trained and as indicated in the Member’s Individual Service Plan.
Use de-escalation and positive reinforcement techniques
Maintain a safe environment for individuals supported
Teach and reinforce safety awareness in all settings. Documentation & Compliance
Complete accurate and timely documentation, including: o Daily notes o Incident reports o Attendance tracking/service hours
Maintain compliance with: o Regional Center requirements o Licensing regulations o Agency policies Communication & Teamwork
Communicate effectively with Members, team members and supervisors
Collaborate with team members and report concerns in a timely, professional manner.
Participate in meetings, trainings, and planning sessions
Report barriers to progress and safety concerns Professional Standards
Maintain confidentiality (HIPAA compliance)
Demonstrate professionalism, reliability, and flexibility
Maintain required certifications and trainings
Follow trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices Additional Expectations
Work in indoor and outdoor environments
Exposure to community settings (e.g., stores, worksites, public spaces) PROGRAM ADD-ONS 1. Community Living Services – In the Member’s Home Independent Living / Supported Living Services (ILS/SLS)
Implement individualized training and support services as outlined in the Member’s ISP/IPP.
Areas of instruction may include, but are not limited to: o Budgeting and money management o Independent living skills o Self-care and hygiene o Meal planning and preparation o Recreation and leisure planning o Banking and financial literacy o Decision-making and problem-solving o Self-advocacy and communication skills o Accessing community resources o Medication and health management including assistance with medical and dental appointments
Assess and monitor Member progress toward established goals and objectives.
Provide input into the development, review, and implementation of ISP/IPP goals.
Participate in interdisciplinary team meetings, staff meetings, and required trainings.
Provide transportation for Members as authorized and required; ensure safe driving practices and compliance with agency vehicle policies. Transport Members in personal vehicle. 2. In-Home Day Program (MMDP)
Develop and implement individualized activity plans designed to increase independence and promote transition to less restrictive and more inclusive environments when appropriate.
Create task analyses when needed, to support skill acquisition and measurable progress toward IPP objectives.
Facilitate meaningful activities that support community connection, engagement, and skill retention.
Teach and model socially appropriate behaviors, communication strategies, and daily living skills.
Support development of positive relationships and social interaction skills. 3. Community Learning Center (CLC) / Day Program – On New Horizons campus, satellite offices, and in the Community Instruction & Member Support
Provide instruction, training, and supervision to Members in community, onsite, and virtual settings to support achievement of ISP goals and independent living skills.
Deliver engaging lessons and activities (e.g., social skills, vocational, recreation, daily living, technology) using structured lesson plans and creative approaches.
Contribute ideas to enhance curriculum, activities, and overall Member experience.
Promote active participation, skill-building, and meaningful engagement in all activities.
Support Members in developing appropriate social, workplace, and community behavior.
Provide travel training, including use of public transportation and community navigation.
Provide personal care assistance as needed, including toileting support. Community & Activity Support
Support Members in volunteer, recreational, and community-based activities through coaching, mentoring, and advocacy.
Ensure all necessary materials and preparation for community outings and activities.
Facilitate meaningful interactions and conversations that support personal growth and goal development. Transportation & Vehicle Responsibilities
Safely transport Members using agency vehicles as required.
Maintain driver certification and comply with all safety requirements.
Complete pre- and post-trip vehicle inspections and report concerns promptly.
OTHER
DUTIES
AND
RESPONSIBILITIES include the following: 1. Completes and timely submits all necessary paperwork, including daily progress notes for all persons supported. 2. Completes all staff training components; including keeping first aid & CPR certification current. 3. Adheres to all health and safety practices in the workplace. Follows all rules and regulations and emergency procedures as set forth in the Emergency Operating Plan. 3. Attends all scheduled meetings and trainings as required. 4. Supports the Agency’s mission and partners with others to accomplish the mission. 5. Maintains the highest professional and ethical standards at all times. 6. May be assigned to work at various agency sites and other community locations as needed. 7. Performs additional duties as assigned. SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES This position has no direct supervisory responsibilities.
A high school diploma is required, and experience supporting people with disabilities is preferred. Candidates must possess a valid California driver's license, reliable transportation, and the ability to work a flexible schedule including weekends.
Market context
In California, classroom teacher roles often stay competitive because licensed centers look for candidates who can show early childhood classroom leadership, lesson planning, and readiness to meet state compliance steps such as background checks and immunizations. This posting’s requirements and benefits are AI-summarized from the original job description, helping you review the role faster and save research time. If you are considering applying, confirm your 12 ECE units and recent classroom experience before submitting.
