Direct Support Professional

Position Overview:

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) at SEARCH Day Program, Inc. provides essential, person-centered support to adults with developmental disabilities in an adult day program setting. The DSP is responsible for promoting independence, facilitating skill development, and enhancing the quality of life for program participants. This role includes transporting individuals to and from the program, assisting with daily activities, ADL skills, accurately documenting participant progress in Therap, and ensuring a safe, engaging, and supportive environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Safely transport participants to and from the Adult Day Program using agency vehicles.
• Ensure timely pick-up and drop-off, adhering to the program’s schedule.
• Assist individuals with boarding, securing seat belts, and accommodating mobility devices, such as wheelchairs or walkers if applicable.
• Perform pre- and post-trip vehicle inspections and report any maintenance or safety concerns.
• Ensure participant safety and provide supervision during transportation.
• Provide direct assistance to participants with activities of daily living (ADLs), including personal care, toileting, changing, and hygiene support as needed.
• Model and support people to develop daily living skills, leisure skills, socialization skills, adaptive behavior skills, and workplace readiness skills, to increase independence
• Support community integration by accompanying participants on planned outings, including volunteer opportunities, recreational trips, and community events.
• Provide support during emergency situations, including responding to behavioral incidents and implementing crisis intervention strategies when necessary.
• Adhere to New Jersey Department of Human Services (DHS) regulations and SEARCH Day Program standards.
• Encourage and assist participants in achieving personal goals outlined in their Individualized Support Plans (ISPs) and Behavior Support Plan (BSP).
• Attend Individualized Support Plan (ISP) meetings as needed and or directed.
• Promote social interaction, independence, and self-advocacy during daily program activities.
• Administer medications as prescribed, following proper medication administration protocols and documentation procedures.
• Monitor participants’ health status and report any changes, incidents, or concerns to the program manager immediately.
• Follow universal precautions, infection control, and safety protocols.
• Implement emergency response procedures as necessary, including participant evacuation and or administering first aid.
• Accurately document daily participant activities, progress, and incidents (GER’s, T-Logs, UIR’s) using the Therap system.
• Complete daily notes, including individual participation, goal progress, and any significant observations or concerns.
• Enter data promptly and thoroughly to ensure compliance with program standards and DHS regulations.
• Maintain clear and professional communication with team members, program managers, and participant families.
• Collaborate with the interdisciplinary team to address participant needs, preferences, and progress.
• Contribute to a positive and inclusive environment, promoting dignity, respect, and meaningful engagement for all participants.
• Collaborate with fellow DSPs, program coordinators, and therapists to support individualized programming.
• Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and professional development to enhance skills and stay current with best practices.
• Assist with program setup, cleanup, and general housekeeping tasks to maintain a safe and organized environment.
• Participate in performance evaluations.
• Report any incidents to the program manager immediately and follow Daniels Law and Stephen Komminos Law if applicable.
• Cooperate fully with the agency and any department staff in any inspections, inquiries and investigations.
• Comply with the requirements for checks of criminal background, central registry, child abuse and drug testing.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support the program’s daily operations.

Qualifications:

• Education: High School Diploma, GED and or 2-year minimum relevant prior experience.
• Prior experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities (I/DD) in a day program or group home setting preferred.

Licensure/Certification:

• Valid New Jersey driver’s license with a clean driving record.
• CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain upon hire).
• Medication Administration certification (or willingness to obtain).

Skills:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to follow detailed individualized support plans, safety protocols, and agency policies and procedures.
• Basic computer skills for documentation purposes.
• Compassionate, patient, and reliable with a commitment to person-centered care.
• Ability to maintain a clean and organized home environment.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to assist participants with mobility needs including lifting 45+ pounds, running, transferring, and positioning individuals safely.
• Comfortable driving agency vehicles and assisting individuals with transportation.
• Capability to perform physical tasks such as bending, lifting, and standing for extended periods

Pay: $17.00 - $20.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid orientation
• Paid sick time
• Paid time off
• Paid training
• Professional development assistance
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person