DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL I

About the Role

Provide support and instruction in activities necessary to promote and maintain independence and self‑determination for individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities living in a Catholic Charities Family and Community Services residential setting. Effectively supports ongoing and collaborative communication amongst all program staff and ensures a trauma‑informed care environment.

Responsibilities

• Provide person‑centered support to all individuals served, recognizing each person’s learning style and providing instruction at an appropriate level.
• Provide direct personal assistance when an individual requires “hands‑on” supports.
• Assist individuals with health and wellness needs, schedule and accompany them to medical appointments, and document required information.
• Assist with meal preparation, menu planning, and food shopping.
• Engage in effective communication with individuals.
• Provide immediate response to and report all incidents, first‑aid treatments, medical emergencies, or other crises according to policy and procedures.
• Assist individuals with fiscal management, including completing ledgers, reconciling accounts, and supporting spending choices.
• Help maintain a clean, safe, and orderly home by following safety and infection‑control procedures.
• Communicate pertinent information during the shift and hand‑off to other team members or supervisors.
• Attend staff meetings.
• Promote the emotional, physical, and personal well‑being of individuals served.
• Provide and maintain a clean and safe living environment for all clients.
• Ensure appropriate staff‑to‑client ratio at all times.
• Implement individual treatment plans as written.
• Safeguard individuals’ valuables.
• Report and document routine and unusual events, including daily logs and accident reports, in a concise, legible, and timely manner.
• Assist with daily operations of the residence in accordance with regulatory requirements, agency policy, and quality program standards.
• Follow procedures for mandated reporting and responding.
• Maintain and expand skills and knowledge relevant to high‑quality support; obtain and maintain required trainings and apply them.
• Ensure individuals exercise their rights and that rights are not restricted without due process.
• Treat individuals with dignity and respect.
• Provide transportation to individuals and for business‑related travel, following safety procedures.
• Maintain agency vehicles in safe, clean, functional condition and report concerns.
• Maintain flexibility in work schedule, including overtime or covering additional shifts on an emergency basis.
• Participate in agency meetings and trainings.
• Actively pursue professional development through reading, supervision, in‑service training, conferences, and workshops.
• Support the agency’s Mission, Vision, Values, Strategic Plan, and Core Competency initiatives (Collaborative and Community Focused, Innovative and Entrepreneurial, Culturally Competent and Diverse).
• Perform other duties as assigned.
• Obtain and maintain Approved Medication Administration Personnel (AMAP) certification.
• Administer medications as prescribed and document in the Medication Management System.
• Administer prescribed personal care and document in the Medication Management System.
• Complete second medication checks.
• Schedule appointments as directed by the Residence Manager or Medical Liaison.
• Attend medical appointments as directed by the Residence Manager or Medical Liaison.

Qualifications

• Education: High School Diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Credentials: Valid NY State driver’s license with an acceptable driving record; AMAP certification required for DSP II.
• Experience: At least one year of practical experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities preferred.

Requirements

• Physical ability to sit, talk, hear, stand, walk, use hands to type, and lift up to 25 lb; vision requirements include close, distance, and focus adjustment; work environment is usually quiet.
• Adherence to all applicable federal and state laws, regulations, confidentiality, privacy, billing, and documentation standards; compliance with CCFCS corporate compliance & ethics program.
• Demonstrated commitment to the agency mission, code of conduct, and corporate compliance policies.
• Full adherence to the Direct Support Professional Core Competencies.
• Ability to provide person‑centered supports and assist individuals in achieving personal outcomes.
• Proficient verbal, reading, and written communication in English; basic math and computer skills.
• Ability to teach, model, and support individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities.
• Ability to read, write, and interpret written documents.
• Availability to work a combination of day, evening, overnight, and weekend hours as needed.
• Ability to remain alert and awake on all shifts.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a residential team.
• Ability to multitask and prioritize duties.
• Ability to travel in all weather