Direct Support Professional

Non-exempt, full-time or part-time, hourly role.

About the Role

Responsible for providing direct support within a single program or unit, typically supporting 4–6 individuals in residential settings, or up to 10 individuals in periodic programs.

Responsibilities

• Deliver support per individual service/program plans, including socialization, health maintenance, medication administration, skill/behavioral development.
• Assist with daily activities: personal care, housekeeping, recreational activities, transportation, community integration, shopping, citizenship, and other activities of daily living.
• Accurately document progress and activity; review records and logs to stay abreast of changes in service plans; maintain confidentiality.
• Make cost-effective and appropriate purchases within the budget of the individual served and according to their choice/preference.
• Maintain healthy and professional relationships with individuals, friends, families, guardians, and case managers; implement customer service standards.
• Report any instance of alleged abuse or neglect according to internal and external standards; report medical, behavioral, and other incidents in accordance with policy and external requirements.
• Maintain confidentiality, respect the rights of persons served, and assist individuals in exercising their rights.
• Monitor individual’s health; document health concerns; communicate with nurse or supervisor as appropriate; follow individual health care directives.
• If assigned, accurately administer or support self-administration of medication and document delivery; promptly report administration errors; maintain security of controlled medications and supplies.
• Correctly follow procedures in utilizing medical equipment; report malfunction or disrepair.
• Prepare or support individuals to prepare food in accordance with planned menus and individual choice; monitor mealtime and implement any dining plans.
• Attend orientation and ongoing training as directed; participate in monthly staff meetings.
• Work scheduled hours; arrive on time; stay on shift until replacement arrives; notify supervisor of absences.
• Work collaboratively with others, communicate openly, and show respect.
• Comply with all established safety policies, procedures, and rules; report unsafe hazards and participate in safety-related training.
• Transport individuals into the community safely, ensuring proper use of safety equipment; report accidents immediately.
• Perform daily and seasonal housekeeping; maintain a neat, clean, and safe environment; report hazards or safety concerns.
• Monitor environmental safety; perform minor repairs, change light bulbs, and maintain walkways; report equipment or facilities requiring repairs.
• Check water temperature when assisting with bathing; participate in safety drills and protect individuals in emergencies.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Six months of experience in human services preferred.
• Must be 18 years of age.
• Working knowledge of computers.
• Valid driver’s license in good standing; car registration and vehicle insurance if providing transportation.
• Complete all state-required training(s) and certification(s) in mandated timeframes.
• Maintain valid driver’s license and meet all insurance requirements to drive for the company.

Pay

$15.75 per hour (waking hours) / $11.13 per hour (sleeping hours).

Physical Requirements

Heavy Work. Exerting up to 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects.