Direct Support Professional (CLS)

About the role

Practice and promote the agency’s mission statement and guiding principles in every interaction. Provide ongoing support to the people that live in the Community Living Services program to ensure that a high quality of life is maintained. Support individuals with intellectual and other disabilities in self‑care routines, health, safety, household chores, socialization, and overall wellbeing, offering only the level of support necessary to foster independence and engagement.

Responsibilities

• Promote the agency’s mission statement and guiding principles in all interactions.
• Provide ongoing support to individuals in the Community Living Services program, covering self‑care, health, safety, household chores, socialization, and overall wellbeing.
• Guide individuals with intellectual and other disabilities to actively participate in every aspect of their lives.
• Deliver the appropriate level of support for each person to ensure independence and daily routine engagement.
• Assist individuals in becoming active community members while maintaining and building natural supports and relationships.
• Ensure a safe and clean home by helping with household chores and participating as needed.
• Follow all treatment plans and use adaptive and safety equipment to promote independence and ensure health, safety, and well‑being.
• Support meal preparation by teaching diet adherence, portion control, and cooking skills.
• Assist with medication administration according to AMAP policy and procedures.
• Implement and document treatment plans and agency‑related materials (residential habilitation goals, medical case notes, communication logs, etc.) to promote independence and safety.
• Adhere to overtime, scheduling, and minimum staffing policies to provide quality support each day.
• Participate as a member of the interdisciplinary team, attending meetings to discuss progress, goal achievement, and share information.
• Provide transportation for medical appointments, shopping, recreational outings, and other needs.
• Mentor new Direct Support Staff by demonstrating supportive routines and reviewing training manuals.
• Participate in House Meetings and maintain all certification and training requirements.
• Perform all other duties as requested by the supervisor.

Requirements

• Successful completion of a fingerprint/criminal background check.
• Training on Personal Outcome Measures (POM) required prior to completing evaluations and assessments.
• High School Diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Valid NYS driver’s license and ability to maintain qualified driver status throughout employment.
• Ability to communicate and understand written and oral directives/instructions.
• Physical ability to lift and transfer individuals (children and/or adults) and meet the physical demands of the position.