DSP

Definition:
Under the direct supervision of the Program Director, the Direct Support Professional provides individualized services in the facility, community, and vocational settings, collects data, and summarizes data on observable client behaviors.

Essential Job Functions:
Essential functions may include the following duties and responsibilities: knowledge, skills, and other characteristics. This list of duties and responsibilities is ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and tasks performed by positions in this class.

Characteristic Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conducts daily facility and community sessions

• Direct staff will be part of a team that works through a tailored program that addresses clients’ specific strengths and weaknesses for the following areas: communication, life skills, community safety skills, vocational training, job coaching, self-help, and social interactions

• Collects data and records client’s progress notes

• Review data with the Program Director and report concerns

• Attends staff meetings to discuss new protocols and facility functions

• Teaches language and communication skills through behavior modification and positive reinforcement techniques

• Receives ongoing training through regular overlaps with the case Program Director

Minimum Qualifications:

• High School diploma
• Must have CA Driver's License and willingness to drive as needed
• Ability to work Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.
• Experience with adults or children with developmental or intellectual disabilities

Knowledge, Skills, and Other Characteristics:

• Ability to work with adults diagnosed with intellectual and other developmental disabilities.

• Ability to work with a variety of computer software programs

• Ability to maintain confidentiality of sensitive and privileged information

• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships

• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing

• Ability to work with enthusiasm and professionalism

• Ability to demonstrate a patient, receptive, and understanding attitude toward clients, remaining calm under stressful conditions.

• Experience working with adults diagnosed with intellectual or developmental disabilities is a plus

• Experience teaching functional communication and social skills is a plus

Work Environment:
This position will require staff to work in community, vocational, and facility environments, routinely take paper data, and use office equipment such as computers, tablets, and phones. It also includes using kitchen equipment and assisting clients at various vocational locations.

Physical Demands:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that an employee must meet to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

Direct Support Professionals will work both indoors and outdoors, in direct contact with clients and the public, and with minimum guidance from the supervisor.

• Walking, standing up to 2 miles daily
• Sitting, kneeling, stooping, crouching, twisting, reaching above head, bending, and carrying up to 50 pounds
• Work may involve using public transportation
• Diligently attending to the safety of the clients and surroundings is required
• Quick and sudden movements may be required
• Sustained physical exertion may be required
• Beach activities – This does not include the ocean or swimming.
• Marina activities – This does not include the ocean or cruising past any breakwaters.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:
Direct Support Professionals may be scheduled up to 30 hours per week, between 8:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Monday-Friday.