Direct Support Professional II

Direct Support Professional II

Job Title:

Direct Support Professional II — Texas Health and Human Services (HHSC).

Location:

Harlingen, TX – Rio Grande State Supported Living Center, 1401 S Rangerville Rd.

Posting Number: 11848 | Closing Date: 03/05/2026 | Department: MH Series A | Shift: Evening;
May require other shifts. Full time, Regular, Non‑exempt.

Salary Range: $3,047.58 – $4,149.83 per month (Monthly).

Direct Support Professional II works as part of a team that helps individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities achieve their goals. Key duties include:

• Provide routine and emergency care, treatment, and training.
• Assist with grooming, bathing, feeding, personal hygiene and life skills.
• Observe and report individual’s conditions, behaviors and daily events.
• Participate in individualized training and treatment plans.
• Transport individuals for scheduled activities and emergencies.
• Administer first aid, CPR, and manage crises as needed.
• Document observations and reports accurately.
• Mentor new DSPs or serve as shift/team lead where required.
• Comply with agency policies, including vehicle operation and safety protocols.

• Attend work regularly and may follow rotating schedule, extended shift or overtime.
• Implement habilitation, rehabilitation, behavior management and treatment programs.
• Teach life skills and assist in treatment plan development.
• Observe for medical or behavioral signs, document and report.
• Transport individuals, provide first aid and assist healthcare needs.
• Evacuate during emergencies or drills.
• Prevent or manage aggressive behavior, administer CPR.
• Perform direct care and support services.
• Provide training or mentorship as needed.
• Participate in disaster response or continuity plans.

• Speak and read English.
• Make decisions, use good judgment in critical incidents.
• React quickly and calmly during emergencies.
• Demonstrate proper body mechanics and lifting techniques.
• Knowledge of individual care techniques and therapy programs.
• Provide individual care, first aid/ CPR, Ukeru, and Safe Use of Restraint.
• Communicate effectively and mentor others.
• Work effectively in team environment.

Must have a valid Texas driver’s license or obtain one within 90 days of hire.

Preferred certifications: CPR, First Aid, Ukeru, Safe Use of Restraint (SUR).

Applicants must pass fingerprint criminal background check, pre‑employment drug screen, and registry checks.

• High School diploma or equivalent, or previous employment experience.
• Experience:
  
  6 months of work, writing reports, behavior programs for persons with intellectual developmental disabilities, mental health/intellectual developmental disabilities.

Must pass background checks, drug screening. Males 18‑25 must register for Selective Service. Willingness to work weekends, holidays, overtime and flexible hours. Minimum age 18 for consideration.

Full‑time eligible employees receive 100% paid health insurance, a defined benefit pension plan, generous time off, and career advancement opportunities.

HHS complies with EEO standards and provides reasonable accommodations under ADA. Contact HHS Employee Service Center at 1‑888‑894‑4747 for assistance.