Direct Support Professional

About the role

REM Community Services, part of the Sevita family, provides community-based services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This is a non-exempt, full-time or part-time, hourly role where you will provide 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.
• Provide direct support or assistance in accordance with individual service or program plans; assist with socialization, behavioral development, personal care, housekeeping, recreational activities, transportation, community orientation, shopping, financial management, 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 Sevita 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 Sevita policy and external requirements.
• Maintain confidentiality, respect the rights of persons being served, practice universal precautions, and assist individuals in exercising their rights.
• Accompany individuals to medical appointments as needed; relay orders and information to and from medical providers.
• If assigned, accurately administer or support self-administration of medication and document delivery; promptly report administration errors; maintain security of controlled medications and supplies.
• Monitor individual’s health; document health concerns; communicate with nurse or supervisor as appropriate; call 911 in emergencies; follow individual health care directives.
• 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; know special diets and prepare meals accordingly; monitor mealtime and implement 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 in advance if unable to work as scheduled.
• Work collaboratively with others, value contributions, communicate openly, listen, and show respect.
• Comply with all established safety policies, procedures, and rules; report unsafe hazards; participate in safety-related training or activities.
• Transport individuals into the community safely and according to local laws; ensure proper use of safety equipment; report accidents immediately.
• Perform daily and seasonal housekeeping as directed; maintain a neat, clean, and safe environment; report hazards or safety concerns.
• Monitor environmental safety; make minor repairs, change light bulbs, perform yard maintenance, and report equipment or facilities requiring repairs.
• Check water temperature when assisting with bathing; participate in safety drills; protect individuals in emergencies.
• Perform other duties and activities as required.

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, meet insurance requirements, and be approved by management to drive for the company.
• Submit to drug testing prior to employment (if hired after 6/15/2018), randomly, and for cause/suspicion.
• Submit to criminal background checks and be determined not disqualified by the Department of Human Services.
• Name checked against the Central Registry of Offenders Against Individuals with Developmental Disabilities and Child Abuse Registry Information (CARI).
• Successfully complete and demonstrate proficiency in all required trainings.

Work Environment

Works at the program location and may accompany individuals into the community.

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.

Additional requirements for New Jersey: Must have a valid driver’s license in good standing in the State of New Jersey (or state of residence if commuting).