Residential Direct Support Professional II - Foxview

Position Overview: The Direct Support Professional II (DSP II) is an advanced frontline position within AccessStar Community Living Services (ACLS). DSP II staff are expected to demonstrate higher levels of competency, reliability, documentation accuracy, and independent judgment. This role builds upon the Direct Support Professional position and requires completion of ACLS’s Level II Advancement Training Packet, including phased training, competency validation, and supervisory sign-off.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

1. Personalized Care and Support:
   • Provide person-centered supports aligned with everyone’s ISP and identified goals.
   • Assist individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities in activities of daily living, including personal hygiene, grooming, dressing, eating, and mobility.
   • Provide emotional support and companionship, fostering a positive and nurturing environment.
   • Administer medication as directed and maintain accurate medication records.
   • Implement behavioral, medical, dietary, and safety protocols consistently and without deviation.
   • Support medical appointments including preparation, transportation, and follow-up documentation.
2. Skill-Building and Empowerment:
   • Facilitate skill-building activities to promote independence and enhance life skills such as cooking, cleaning, money management, and communication.
   • Encourage individuals to participate in community integration activities, social outings, and recreational events.
   • Support individuals in pursuing their interests, hobbies, and personal goals, fostering a sense of empowerment and self-determination.
   • Advocate for the rights and preferences of individuals, ensuring they are treated with dignity, respect, and equality.
3. Documentation and Reporting:
   • Maintain accurate and detailed documentation of daily activities, progress notes, incident reports, and individual outcomes.
   • Complete required documentation in accordance with agency policies, regulatory standards, and funding requirements.
   • Communicate effectively with supervisors, healthcare professionals, and interdisciplinary team members to ensure continuity of care and service delivery.
   • Maintain confidentiality and proper handling of all records and protected information
4. Safety and Crisis Management:
   • Recognize, escalate, and assist with serious incident reporting within required timelines.
   • Monitor individuals for signs of distress, behavioral changes, or medical concerns, taking appropriate action to ensure their safety and well-being.
   • Implement crisis intervention techniques and de-escalation strategies as needed to address challenging behaviors or emergencies.
   • Maintain a safe and clean environment, identifying and addressing hazards or safety risks promptly.
5. Collaboration and Teamwork:
   • Model professionalism, documentation standards, and safety practices for DSP I staff.
   • Communicate effectively with supervisors, clinical staff, and leadership.
   • Collaborate with fellow DSPs, supervisors, case managers, and other stakeholders to develop and implement individualized support plans.
   • Participate in team meetings, training sessions, and professional development activities to enhance knowledge and skills.
   • Foster positive working relationships with individuals, families, guardians, and external service providers, promoting a holistic approach to care and support.
6. All other duties as assigned by the Executive Director or Designee

Training and Advancement Requirements

• DSP II status is earned and maintained through successful completion of ACLS’s Level II Advancement Training Packet, which includes:
  • Completion of Phase 1 (Days 1–30): Foundation and observation
  • Completion of Phase 2 (Days 31–60): Skill practice and shared responsibility
  • Completion of Phase 3 (Days 61–90): Independent performance and validation
• Successful completion of all required training modules and competency checklists
• Written supervisor and Program Manager approval

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred
• Previous experience working with individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities can be substituted for diploma
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to communicate effectively and empathetically with individuals, families, and colleagues.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and a proactive approach to supporting individuals in achieving their goals.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, demonstrating flexibility, reliability, and a commitment to person-centered care.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation may be required for certain positions.
• Current Direct Support Professional in good standing with ACLS
• Completion of required DSP orientation and baseline training
• Ability to meet attendance, professionalism, and performance expectations
• Ability to complete required Level II training and competency validation

Physical Demands and Work Environment

• The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee may be required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, kneel, or crouch, and lift or move objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
• The work environment may vary based on the setting, including residential homes, day programs, and community settings. It may involve exposure to outdoor weather conditions, noise, and occasional exposure to bodily fluids or hazardous materials.

Reporting Structure: The Direst Support Professional II reports directly to the House Supervisor and collaborates closely with other administrative staff members.