Direct Support Professional

Job Description

Job Summary

We are seeking a Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to join our team. In this role, you will make a difference in the lives of seniors and people with disabilities by enhancing their quality of life.

Direct Support Professional shall provide direct care services in either home residential setting and/or community-based setting, to program participants with Developmental Disabilities and/or other disabilities in one of the agencies services/programs as specified in job offer.

DSPs provide support training and/or assistance with activities of daily living, to include but not limited to bathing, dressing, toileting, preparing meals, hygiene, housekeeping, etc. Coordinate appointments and/or activities. Accompany program participants appointments, community outings/events/recreational activities.

As a DSP your required to implement program participants Person-Centered Plans (PCPs) also referred to as Individualized Support Plans (ISPs). Assures health and safety in the home and/or community. Makes recommendations based on the participant’s needs. Completes documentation in a timely manner. Documents on daily outcomes. Maintain compliance with all training requirements as personnel.

Direct Support Professional will aid in helping program participants with disabilities complete tasks and stay safe in their environment. Work with the program participants, agency administration and their Physician to better understand their challenges, needs and health status, and perform tasks to support this condition and tend to their needs.

Direct Support Professionals will perform basic housekeeping duties the program participants is unable to complete, such as but not limited to cleaning and meal preparation, laundry, and communication with family and friends.

Direct Support Professional are responsible for creating a safe, positive, and encouraging atmosphere for the program participants. Work closely with the program participants to enhance their decision-making skills and encourage them to engage in more activities that will help strengthen their physical and mental health.

Direct Support Professionals will support program participants on how to complete certain tasks on their own to promote a more independent and satisfying lifestyle working toward planned outcomes outlined in their individualized support plans. Direct Support Professionals will use agency tools to help them on the job to support program participants.

The ideal candidate is patient, compassionate, and reliable.

Responsibilities

Assist with personal hygiene needs and dressing

Assist with mobility, walking, and physical therapy exercises

Prepare meals and snacks

Light housekeeping activities

Dispense medication

Provide companionship

Assist with errands, shopping, medical appointments

Assist with community outings recreational

Effectively communicating with agency Care Team

Qualifications: KSAs

High School Diploma, GED or 1-2 years of documented (i.e. PCA, CNA, MA-Tech) and verifiable experience working in the Human Service, Health or Medical Field. 12 to 18 months experience working with persons with elderly persons with mental health or disabilities in a group home, day support, supportive-in home, hospital, treatment center, community, consumer directed, home health or nursing home setting.

Previous experience as a Direct Support Professional, Caregiver, Home Health Aide, or similar role related to the Human Service and/or Healthcare field

Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation

Knowledge of basic housekeeping tasks and cooking skills

Ability to adhere to and implement health and safety guidelines

Ability to adhere to and implement all policies procedures

Ability to adhere to and implement all federal, and state/local regulations

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Good oral and written communication skills. Ability to perform simple math skills.

Ability to lift heaving objects, support in program participants ambulation

Compassionate, respectful, ethical

Ability to read and write

Knowledge of Developmental Disabilities and Mental Health other related disabilities. Demonstrated skill in working with adults with disabilities.

Ability to observe the rights and personal dignity of participants served.

Ability to participate in meetings with other professionals.

Knowledge of simple nursing care, first aid, behavior management, personal care, hygiene, and environmental hygiene. Ability to teach/ support participants eating, bathing, dressing, grooming and other self-care skills.

Ability to participate in treatment planning, implement PCP and complete proper documentation.

Ability to observe, record and properly report participant’s behavior, attitude, physical condition, and emergency incident.

Ability to maintain effective working relationships with participants, family members and professional contacts.

Ability to maintain strict confidentiality at all times.

Ability to maintain professionalism at all times.

Ability to respond immediately and effectively in emergency situations.

Possess caring and positive attitude; enjoys working with all people.

Ability to meet areas of competencies as a DSP

Benefits/Perks

Retirement benefits (as applicable)

Medical/dental benefits (as applicable)

Competitive Compensation

Careers Advancement

First Aide CPR Certified (if not already)

Medication Administration Certified (if not already)

Therapeutic Options of Virginia (T.O.V.A) Certified

Pre-Hire Requirements

Complete training 16-80 hours (depends on applicant qualifications/verifiable experience)

Background Checks

TB/PPD screening