Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Job Summary

Serve as a supervisor, instructor, and helper in creating and maintaining a safe, clean, and appropriate living or work environment for clients. Focus on promoting The Arc's values and ensuring the well-being of clients.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Report to shifts on time and follow organization policies, procedures, and rules.
• Model respectful behavior and guide clients in demonstrating fairness, consistency, attentiveness, and appropriate conduct.
• Treat all clients, families, colleagues, supervisors, and community members with respect and dignity.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding clients' information.
• Engage verbally with clients and train them in following established routines and activities.
• Promote clients' growth by reinforcing independence and interpersonal skills.
• Achieve clients' support plan goals and maintain a supportive environment.
• Assist clients with toileting, eating, and other physical needs as necessary.
• Understand clients' case histories, educational programs, and special needs.
• Supervise and coordinate clients' activities and tasks.
• Provide transportation, if needed, and follow each client's Implementation Plan.
• Follow medical instructions and protocols, including data collection.
• Communicate with supervisors about any maintenance, safety, or other needs.
• Document contacts with family, schools, day programs, and significant others.
• Attend required meetings and promote open communication within the team.
• Maintain high program standards and advocate for clients' rights.
• Perform other duties as assigned by Supervisor.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent (GED).
• One year of experience working with the developmentally disabled or in a related field, or 30 credit hours of college education.
• Effective communication, organizational, and basic computer skills.
• Ability to work independently and in a team, manage time effectively, and prioritize tasks.
• Ability to operate a motor vehicle and manage physical tasks like lifting and carrying.
• Flexibility to work at various locations.
• Proper care of equipment and resources.
• Ability to promote dignity and respect for those served.
• Positive interactions with clients, families, colleagues, supervisors, and the community.

Physical Demands

• Standing, sitting, walking, talking, hearing, handling, feeling, operating objects, tools, or controls, reaching with hands and arms.
• May perform physical restraint techniques, provide first aid, CPR, or physically transfer clients.
• Lift, carry, push, pull, and bend, squat, or kneel up to 30 pounds.
• Work in a moderate noise environment.