Direct Support Professional - Adult Day Program

About the role

Avondale House is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit agency that provides educational services to individuals with autism, a day program for adults where clients receive training in daily living skills and pre-vocational activities, and three group homes for adults unable to live in their own home. This position will provide direct support to the day program. Avondale House has been serving individuals with autism since 1976.

Responsibilities

• Train participants in the day program on various life, social, and vocational skills.
• Accompany participants to volunteer assignments and supervise to ensure participant safety and support with volunteer activity as needed.
• Drive participants to appointments, volunteer assignments, and other scheduled community activities.
• Show compassion, build rapport, and encourage participants so they can develop into their full potential.
• Keep participants on task and redirect focus.
• Work with staff throughout Avondale House to meet the needs of each participant in day habilitation.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• Experience working with autistic individuals preferred.
• Experience working with intellectually disabled individuals required.
• Patient, authoritative personality.
• Current CPR Certification.
• Valid Driver’s License.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to implement non-Violent Crisis Intervention.
• Lifting/moving up to 50 lbs and lifting/moving up to 100 lbs plus with assistance.
• Ability to stand on your feet for 2–3 hours at a time.
• Stooping, kneeling, pushing, and pulling may be required in this position.
• Must be capable of physically restraining clients if necessary.
• Must be able to handle situations that may be stressful at times.

Benefits

• Medical and 401k with an employer contribution.
• Dental, vision, life, and disability insurance.
• Paid time off and holiday leave.