Direct Support Professional I - Childrens Congregate Care

Responsibilities

• Ensure the safety, supervision, and well-being of youth through active engagement and therapeutic interaction.
• Monitor the treatment milieu, identify safety risks, and take appropriate corrective action, escalating concerns to supervisory staff as needed.
• Support the development of a therapeutic milieu that promotes:
  • Social growth and healthy peer relationships
  • Emotional expression and self-regulation
  • Positive behavior and improved daily functioning
• Establish and maintain appropriate professional boundaries, including:
  • Physical, emotional, and logistical boundaries
  • Confidentiality and HIPAA compliance
• Participate in the daily upkeep and cleanliness of the program, including:
  • Supporting youth with chores, laundry, and meal preparation
  • Conducting room and safety checks
• Accurately document client care, including:
  • Shift notes, logs, and rehabilitation documentation (as required by program)
  • Medication administration records
  • Incident reports and safety documentation
• Maintain awareness of individual treatment plans, safety plans, and specialized programming.
• Utilize crisis prevention and de-escalation strategies consistent with agency policy (CPI), using physical interventions only when necessary and authorized.
• Maintain required certifications and comply with all program and agency policies.
• Act as a reliable and collaborative team member, arriving prepared, communicating effectively, and approaching care from a trauma-informed, strengths-based, and culturally responsive perspective.

Qualifications

• A High School Diploma, GED, or HiSET required
• Must be at least 21 years of age
• 1–3 years of related experience working with youth or in human services preferred
• A valid driver’s license (Class C or D) required
• Ability to work flexible shifts, including evenings, weekends, overnights, and holidays
• Physical ability to safely perform job duties, including crisis intervention when required

Skills and Knowledge

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to remain calm, professional, and supportive in high-stress situations
• Understanding of trauma-informed care and behavioral health principles
• Strong documentation and organizational skills
• Commitment to teamwork, accountability, and ethical practice