Direct Support Professional

Scope of Role

Provides direct support within a single program or unit, typically supporting 4–6 individuals in residential settings, or up to 10 individuals in periodic programs. This is a non-exempt, full-time or part-time, hourly role.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver support per individual service/program plans, including socialization, health maintenance, medication administration, and 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 individual's budget and according to their choice/preference.
• Maintain healthy and professional relationships with individuals, families, guardians, and case managers; greet visitors and implement customer service standards.
• Report alleged abuse or neglect and other incidents per internal and external standards.
• Maintain confidentiality, respect rights of persons served, practice universal precautions, and assist individuals in exercising their rights.
• As needed, accompany individuals to medical appointments and relay orders/information to/from medical providers.
• If assigned, accurately administer or support self-administration of medication, document delivery, report errors, and maintain security of controlled medications.
• Monitor health, document concerns, communicate with nurse/supervisor, call 911 in emergencies, and follow health care directives.
• Correctly follow procedures for medical equipment and report malfunctions or disrepair.
• Prepare or support individuals to prepare food per planned menus and individual choice; accommodate special diets and implement dining plans.
• Attend orientation and ongoing training; participate in monthly staff meetings.
• Work scheduled hours, arrive on time, stay until replacement arrives, notify supervisor in advance of absences, and fill in for other shifts as required without unapproved overtime or in emergencies.
• Work together with others, value contributions, communicate openly, listen, and show respect.
• Comply with safety policies, report hazards, and participate in safety training.
• Transport individuals safely; ensure use of seat belts, lifts, and wheelchair ties; report accidents immediately to authorities and supervisor.
• Perform daily and seasonal housekeeping; maintain neat, clean, safe environment; report hazards.
• Monitor environmental safety, make minor repairs, perform yard maintenance including snow removal, and report equipment/facility issues.
• Check water temperature when assisting with bathing; participate in safety drills and 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 (New Jersey state license; or valid license from state of residence if commuting).
• Car registration and vehicle insurance if providing transportation.
• Complete all state-required trainings and certifications within mandated timeframes.
• Maintain valid driver's license, meet insurance requirements, and be approved as a driver for the company; if driving privileges are lost due to MVR requirements, sign a Non-Driver form and refrain from driving on behalf of the company until MVR clears.
• Cooperate with licensee and Department of Human Services staff in inspections, inquiries, or investigations.
• Submit to drug testing prior to employment (for hires after 6/15/2018) and randomly/for cause thereafter.
• Submit to criminal background checks and be determined not disqualified by Department of Human Services; agree to name checks against Central Registry of Offenders Against Individuals with Developmental Disabilities and Child Abuse Registry Information (CARI).
• Successfully complete and demonstrate proficiency in all required training areas.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

• Works at the program location and may accompany individuals into the community.
• Heavy work: exerting up to 100 pounds of force occasionally, up to 50 pounds frequently, and up to 20 pounds constantly to move objects.

Supervisory Responsibilities

None.

This response is AI-generated, for reference only.