Direct Care Coach

Job Objectives

Direct Care Coach (DCC) is responsible for direct care, individual‑specific programming, and supervision of one or more assigned individuals. This staff shall also ensure that all measures necessary for the safety and well‑being of all assigned individuals are maintained at the highest level possible. Direct Care Coaches may administer medication, if necessary, upon completion of the OPWDD‑approved Medication Administration Course.

Skills/Qualifications

• High School Diploma required with one year working with I/DD population
• Within a designated period after hiring, must obtain and maintain certification in OPWDD Medication Administration, First Aid, CPR, SCIP‑R and other certifications mandated by licensing agencies
• Enjoys working in a life‑sharing relationship with other people
• Respects individuals as persons of dignity and worth who are capable of growth and development
• Valid NYS Driver’s License
• Ability to travel to other agency locations as required
• Vehicle required: must be safe and dependable

Hours per Week

Non‑Exempt regular hours entail 40 hours per week, as assigned.

Physical Requirements

• Transports individuals to and from activities as assigned
• Participates in physical activities with the individuals
• Able to stand/walk for a minimum 6 hours on an 8‑hour shift and 10 hours on a 12‑hour shift
• Lifts up to 50 pounds
• Word processing: responding to e‑mails, composing letters, completing computerized documentation, transcribing minutes for meetings, etc.

Functions

• Primarily responsible for the direct care of assigned individual(s)
• Sensitive to and respectful of the individual rights and physical and emotional needs of assigned individuals
• Communicates needs verbally and in writing to the individual, appropriate staff, family members, and agency personnel
• Plans, implements, documents, and maintains personal hygiene, domestic skills, laundry skills, medication, meal preparation, money management, community integration, behavioral management, shopping, recreation, and other needs as dictated by the individual plan
• Documents shift information such as maintenance needs, supplies needed, and all other appropriate information; reviews and signs off on all logs and documentation as assigned by Supervisor
• Assists in maintaining a clean physical environment and performs related work as necessary
• Participates in staff meetings and in‑service training modules as scheduled; remains in compliance with all agency orientation, training, and certification guidelines
• Provides coverage in any of the OPWDD programs as designated by a Supervisor
• Remains on‑duty until properly relieved and consults with On‑Call Supervisor as needed per program protocol
• Provides crisis intervention as necessary
• Maintains an awake, aware presence in the program site throughout the shift
• Provides direct care, individual‑specific programming, and supervision to one or more assigned individuals from the DD population
• Ensures safety and well‑being of individuals while supporting personal needs, recreation, and socialization activities to meet Service Plan goals and objectives

Benefits

• Eligibility to enroll in medical, dental, vision, FSA, supplemental life insurance, critical illness, enhanced short‑term disability, and 401(k) benefits
• Bi‑weekly pay; overtime may be required
• Must join union
• Physical exam and drug pre‑screening test required only after job hire