Direct Support Worker

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide direct support to individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities in various settings.
• Empower participants to make informed decisions and build everyday living and community skills.
• Communicate effectively using respectful verbal and non-verbal strategies and active listening.
• Aid in assessments and person-centered planning to develop, implement, and review individual service plans.
• Support participants in achieving personal goals, independence, and desired outcomes.
• Help build formal and informal support networks by connecting participants with community resources and services.
• Provide assistance with physical and personal care needs while promoting relationship-building and self-sufficiency.
• Advocate for participants’ individual, legal, and administrative rights.
• Implement positive prevention strategies and crisis interventions as needed.
• Maintain accurate, timely, and confidential documentation and reports.
• Encourage exploration of employment opportunities, identify barriers, and support career planning.
• Provide transportation and maintain accurate mileage and ride records.
• Participate in ongoing professional development and job performance improvement.
• Follow safety standards and procedures, using protective equipment when required.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

• A high school diploma or GED required, or employer-provided written attestation confirming qualifications.
• No prior experience required.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

• Must have a valid driver’s license and access to an insured vehicle.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Regularly required to talk and hear.
• Frequently required to stand, walk, and sit.
• Occasionally required to reach, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
• Frequently lift/move up to 25 pounds and up to 50 pounds with assistance.
• Requires close, distance, color, and peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Frequent exposure to outdoor weather conditions and moderate noise levels.
• Work environment includes regular attendance and punctuality.
• Core hours: Monday–Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
• May require occasional evenings and weekends as needed.
• Some positions (e.g., PAB/CLS-I) require flexible schedules Monday–Sunday with varied hours.
• Travel is required.