Direct Support Professional
About the role
Our mission is to serve, provide for, and champion individuals with disabilities. Evergreen Life Services (ELS) is a charitable, non‑profit organization that provides a full range of professional services to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Founded in the 1950s, today we serve more than 1,100 individuals with disabilities in 8 states. Working at Evergreen Life Services isn’t just a job; it’s a rewarding career. Whether you provide direct care in our adult day care or in a group home, or you serve in a support or corporate office role, you will be an important part of the Evergreen team. Every employee is a valuable part of the team because, at Evergreen, everyone matters.
Job Summary
Responsible for maintaining a healthy, safe, and therapeutic environment for individuals served and following through on their individual plans of care.
Responsibilities
- Ensure the health and welfare of the individuals served.
- Assist individuals with medication and treatment plans as needed.
- Assist individuals with the care and cleaning of their home, including reporting maintenance needs.
- Assist individuals with money management, including budgeting, banking, and shopping.
- Assist individuals with daily life activities such as meal preparation, reading usage, telephone use, community services (post office, mass transportation), housekeeping, clothing care, self‑care, and personal hygiene.
- Make food and non‑food purchases for the home when requested.
- Prepare meals.
- Ensure maintenance of the home and grounds as requested.
- Complete all required documentation in accordance with applicable state agency(ies) and Evergreen Presbyterian Ministries, Inc. policies and procedures.
- Implement behavioral and other programs as trained and requested.
- Assist individuals with their goals as outlined in their plan of care documents.
- Identify potential behavior triggers and defuse or redirect as needed to ensure safety and well‑being of all involved.
- Provide transportation for individuals served in a company or personal vehicle as requested.
Requirements
- Must be at least 21 years of age due to auto liability coverage.
- Effectively read, write, and communicate verbally in English; able to read and understand instructions, perform record‑keeping, and write reports.
- Meet and maintain all requirements of the applicable state agency(ies), including good standing with state abuse and neglect registry.
- Ability to learn basic computer skills (e.g., turn on/off, log in/out, input data, approve timesheet).
- Prior experience as a direct support worker preferred.
- Good driving record that meets Evergreen’s minimum requirements and reliable transportation.
- Ability to pass drug screen and criminal background check.
- Willingness to work some evenings when required.
- Physical ability to constantly move about to coordinate work, regularly move and position objects up to 25 pounds, and regularly assist individuals physically by lifting and positioning them as appropriate.
- Constant alertness to consumers’ needs; occasional exposure to viruses and infectious conditions.
- Represent Evergreen in public in a manner that reflects credibility and professionalism.
- Desire to work with people with disabilities and enhance their quality of life.
- Ability to function successfully in stressful situations and demonstrate high moral standards as a positive role model.
- Completion of all orientation and on‑the‑job training prior to starting work.
- Work assigned shifts as required by management and attend all required training classes.
Benefits
- 401(k) with matching
- Company parties
- Dental insurance
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Opportunity for advancement
- Paid time off
- Training & development
- Tuition assistance
- Vision insurance
- Wellness resources
Working Environment
May be required to work in a variety of settings and environments both indoors and outdoors.