Direct Support Professional

Job Summary: The employee in this position is responsible for the health, safety, and wellbeing of the individuals living within the residence through a person-driven system in which people with disabilities have choice, control, and access to a full array of quality services that assure optimal outcomes such as independence, health, community integration and inclusion, and quality of life. The employee provides care, supervision, support and guidance of all assigned individuals to ensure a safe, healthy, secure and pleasant environment, which promotes and reinforces individual growth and development towards greater independence in self-care, daily living skills, socialization and community living.

RESPONSBILITIES INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO

• Participate in the life of the individual in their home to foster a person-centered atmosphere conducive to the growth of the individual and towards their maximum independence in all areas of daily living. Commit to person-centered supports and honor the personality, preferences, culture, and strengths of the individuals. Promote and protect the health, safety and emotional well-being of the individuals
• Assist in planning and implementation of the program.
  • Assist the individuals to set goals, make informed choices, and follow-through on responsibilities.
  • Supports the individual to advocate for self by encouraging the individual to speak for his or her self.
  • Supports the individual to get needed services, support, and resources.
  • Assist the individual in getting past barriers to needed services.
  • Support the spiritual, emotional, and social well-being of the individual.
  • Helps the individual follow health care plans and use medical equipment as needed.
  • Maintains the safety of an individual in the case of emergency.
  • Helps individuals to be safe and learn to be safe in the community.
  • Uses universal precautions and gives first aid, as needed, in an emergency.
• Follow all specified policies and procedures, for managing behaviors, emergencies and reporting incidents.
• Act as a role model for consumers by appropriate behavior and offering assistance as indicated in Individual Service Plans.
• Provide personal care consistent with participant’s skill level and as outlined in the habilitation plan (including; bathing, toileting, dressing, laundry, travel safety, etc.)
• Support the mission and vision of the organization.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to be able to:

• Transports individuals as necessary to programs, activities, appointments, recreational functions, etc., as scheduled or requested by supervisors.
• Use a computer or phone with email capability to communicate with other agency personnel.
• Physical ability to regularly lift 25 pounds and occasionally lift/move 50 pounds to assist individuals as needed, which may include lifting to-from wheelchairs, bathtubs, beds, etc.
• Performs other related duties as requested by supervisor or the organization as a whole.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Possession of a High School Diploma or GED; maintains an additional 24 hours of training annually.
• Attainment of a current employee physical examination and PPD on approved form acceptable to licensing
• Able to read and comprehend plans, behavior plans, instructions, etc.
• Able to communicate clearly in English
• Demonstrates written skills to adequately perform all required documentation, including electronic documentation.
• Possession of a current valid driver’s license with acceptable driver’s record from the DMV that demonstrates insurability to drive agency vehicle.
• Maintains acceptable criminal background as per the OSPSA/Act 169 Waiver Form, agency requirements, and regulations.
• Successfully completes the Department’s Medication Administration course within 6 months of hire.