Direct Support Professional (LS)

Job Summary

The ideal candidate is a passionate educator who can develop, prepare, and deliver curriculum for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This individual will create engaging learning experiences, adapt instruction to meet diverse needs, and foster an inclusive environment that supports growth, independence, and lifelong learning.

About the Role

The Direct Support Professional establishes a secure and positive environment that nurtures the client’s self-expression, needs, and goals. Responsible for daily functions of the Life Skills Program under the supervision of the Life Skills Coordinator.

Responsibilities

• Develop, prepare, and deliver engaging educational curriculum and learning activities tailored to the needs and abilities of adults with IDD.
• Adapt instructional materials and teaching methods to support diverse learning styles and individual goals.
• Facilitate classroom and small-group instruction that promotes skill development, independence, and lifelong learning.
• Assess participant progress and modify curriculum as needed to support successful outcomes.
• Train and/or assist clients in activities of daily living including feeding, toileting, cleaning self, cleaning environment, etc.
• Ensure clients participate in and are informed of progress toward goals and objectives as written in the individual's program plan.
• Assure clients’ rights and safety while treating others with dignity and respect in all situations as required by the Elizabeth Richardson Center Policies & Procedures and State/Federal guidelines.
• Document and submit clients’ daily goals, client attendance and documentation in Therap on a daily basis.
• Document and submit required reports to supervisors as required by State/Federal guidelines including but not limited to behavior reports, incident reports, etc.
• Maintain cleanliness of work and break areas.
• Provide safe transportation for all clients as directed by Supervisor.
• Conduct daily safety check of van before and after all trips and immediately report any unsafe condition or potential problem to supervisor. Ensure wheel chair lifts are operated safely.

Qualifications

• Genuine enthusiasm for education and a commitment to helping adults with IDD learn, grow, and succeed.
• Strong understanding of adult learning principles and person-centered instructional approaches.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and classroom facilitation skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively with consumers, clients and staff.
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions and procedure manuals.
• Ability to write detailed reports and correspondences.
• Attention to detail – adhering to specific protocols and rules while carefully following instructions for the needs of the clients.
• Interpersonal skills when working with clients – includes having compassion and being sensitive to their emotional needs when they are extreme distress.

Physical Demands

This position requires sitting, standing, walking, lifting, carrying, reaching, pushing, pulling, talking to people, planning work activities for clients, and working on a team. Must be able to lift 50 lbs.

Travel

Less than 10% local travel excepted for this position.

Education and Experience

• Minimum level of education required – High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent work experience.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite or similar software.
• Preferred experience – demonstrated ability to develop lesson plans, prepare instructional materials, and teach curriculum effectively.
• Preferred knowledge of programs and services for individuals with disabilities.
• Preferred experience working with nonprofit organizations.
• Previous work with state licensures and related annual audits a plus.