Direct Support Professional - Employment and Community

Job Description

Job Description

Direct Support Professional - Employment and Community - various part-time positions available

$750.00 Sign-on Bonus

Summary The Employment and Community Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides individualized assistance and support to people with developmental disabilities or acquired brain injury, helping them succeed in employment and become active in their community.

The work of a DSP is varied, creative, flexible, and rewarding. A DSP might support an individual at their place of employment, provide skills coaching, share a meal together, help maintain appropriate personal care, attend community events, and help make decisions about schedules and daily activities. Positions are typically part time with some fulltime opportunities available. Extensive training provided.

Essential Functions

• Employment and Community Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) provide one-on-one support to help individuals learn and maintain employment skills. These responsibilities include supporting the individual at their place of employment, provide skills development, coaching in communication, problem solving and workplace expectations.
• DSPs assist individuals in accessing and engaging in community and social activities. These could include going out to eat, attending concerts or movies, building friendships, volunteering, taking walks, or participating in sports or workouts. DSPs provide transportation to work and community activities, and must have a valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
• DSPs support individuals in achieving goals outlined in their service agreements. They accurately track an individual's progress, inform the Program Manager of any changes affecting employment, including wages and hours. They also report concerns affecting an individual's well-being, injury, illness, and health or emotional changes.
• DSPs complete required documentation (daily notes, medication logs, incident reports, progress notes, etc.) accurately and on time, and adhere to all regulations, policies and procedures. They follow safety protocols to maintain a safe environment, and report unsafe conditions to the Program Manager. A DSP acts in accordance with legal responsibilities to ensure the individual's safety and welfare and maintains confidentiality.
• Provide medication administration, if the individual is unable to administer their own medications. This is determined by the agency nurse. Medication training is provided by the agency.

Education / Experience High school diploma or equivalent required. Must be a minimum of 18 years of age. Experience with individuals with developmental disabilities or as an aide or caregiver preferred but not required. Must complete all MDS training within six months of hire and annually thereafter.

Working Conditions DSPs are considered Essential Employees and may be required to work flexible schedules in various settings. Must have a valid driver's license, and reliable transportation. Mileage reimbursement is available. Medication certification and Safety Care training may be required. Must be able to lift 25+ lbs with assistance as needed. Employment is contingent upon passing criminal, motor vehicle, BAAS, DCYF, and OIG background checks.

Pre-employment Background Check Requirements : Criminal records, motor vehicle record, Bureau of Adult and Aging Services (BAAS), Division of Child, Youth and Families (DCYF), Office of Inspector General (OIG)