Direct Support Professional/PT/Fri 2p -10p, Sun 12p-10p
About the role
If you are a positive and personable individual looking for a satisfying and fun opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, mental health, and substance‑use challenges, join our team at RHA Health Services! The Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides personalized support to individuals with disabilities, helping them engage meaningfully in their communities and achieve their personal goals. This role involves assisting individuals in identifying and expressing their needs, implementing services aligned with their person‑centered plans, and fostering independence and self‑advocacy. A successful DSP seeks to understand each individual’s history, social and family networks, and aspirations, providing support with compassion and respect. The position operates under supervision and follows established guidelines to ensure high‑quality care and advocacy.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Advocate for individuals’ human, legal, and civil rights.
- Promote health and safety by supporting wellness initiatives and accident prevention.
- Encourage self‑advocacy and empower individuals in making their own choices.
- Facilitate community engagement by accompanying individuals to work, recreational activities, and social events.
- Teach and support independent living skills, including household management and personal care.
- Provide transportation for appointments, errands, and community activities.
- Foster social connections by supporting relationship‑building within the community.
- Support informed decision‑making regarding living arrangements, employment, and social activities.
- Assist with personal care tasks such as hygiene, bathing, dressing, and household chores (laundry, cleaning, decorating).
- Maintain accurate documentation of provided services and support.
- Understand and address challenges faced by individuals with disabilities, using effective advocacy strategies.
- Connect individuals with community resources for career development, education, and volunteer opportunities.
- Encourage effective communication, adapting to individual needs and preferences.
- Assist with medication administration in accordance with state laws and regulations.
- Ensure confidentiality and uphold ethical standards in all aspects of care.
Minimum Qualifications
- High School Diploma or equivalent.
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Meet all pre‑employment screening requirements (criminal background check, drug testing, education verification, etc.).
- Compassionate, patient, and dedicated to person‑centered support.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to foster independence while providing necessary support.
- Knowledge of disability rights, self‑advocacy, and community integration principles.
- Ability to maintain accurate records and follow regulatory guidelines.
Physical Demands and Work Environment
- Regularly lift and carry up to 20 lb.; occasionally pull at least 40 lb.
- Squat, kneel, crawl, crouch, climb, and stoop as part of regular duties.
- Use hands and fingers to handle or operate objects, tools, or controls.
- Stand and walk for extended periods.
- Demonstrate proficiency in CPR from floor level, requiring work on hands and knees, bending, standing, and lifting.
- Vision requirements include close, distance, and peripheral vision.
- Must be able to talk and hear (except for Deaf and Hard of Hearing programs where fluency in American Sign Language is required).
Benefits
- Payactiv: early access to earned wages before payday.
- Employee perks and discount program.
- Paid Time Off (full‑time employees only).
- Health/Insurance (full‑time employees only).
- 401(k) retirement savings program.
- Wellbeing programs: physical, emotional, and financial.
- Chronic disease management programs for hypertension and diabetes (for qualifying employees).
- Free CPR, first aid, and job‑specific training opportunities.
Schedule
Part‑time: Friday 2 p.m. – 10 p.m., Sunday 12 p.m. – 10 p.m.