DSP - Thieriot Avenue

About the role

The Direct Support Professional role is responsible for empowering persons with developmental disabilities to live fulfilling lives by providing personalized support and fostering independence. This role focuses on promoting individual growth, enhancing quality of life, and ensuring a supportive environment for the persons we support.

Responsibilities

• Implement and monitor varying plans of care for the persons supported, including Comprehensive Functional Assessment, Staff Action, Life Plan, treatment plans, and Behavior Support Plans.
• Implement and document person-supported goals and objectives from person-centered plans, focusing on enhancing social, vocational, and life skills through structured activities and positive reinforcement.
• Provide direct care and assistance in daily living activities, including personal hygiene, meal preparation, medication administration, and transportation.
• Facilitate community outings, recreational activities, and social events to promote inclusion, independence, and meaningful interactions with peers and the community.
• Accompany individuals on appointments and healthcare follow-ups.
• Utilize person-centered approaches and positive behavior support strategies to address challenging behaviors effectively, ensuring a safe and nurturing environment.
• Provide the required level of supervision and support for individuals' needs (medical, developmental, clinical, emotional, etc.).
• Maintain accurate records, daily progress notes, and incident reports to track achievements, behaviors, and health status, ensuring compliance with agency policies and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including healthcare professionals, therapists, and family members, to develop and implement comprehensive care plans and ensure holistic support.
• Advocate for the rights, choices, and preferences of individuals with developmental disabilities, promoting self-advocacy and empowerment in decision-making processes.
• Serve as a custodian and mandated reporter in accordance with OPWDD, NYSJC, and organizational policies.
• Administer medications according to prescribed schedules, document medication administration accurately, and monitor individuals for any adverse reactions or side effects.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent required; experience in direct care or human services preferred.
• Valid NY/NJ/CT/PA Driver’s License with 6 months of experience and 6 or fewer points.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills; patience, empathy, and a genuine desire to support persons with developmental disabilities.
• CPR and First Aid certification preferred; additional training in developmental disabilities, behavior management, or healthcare a plus.
• Commitment to providing compassionate care and promoting dignity and respect for individuals with developmental disabilities.
• Ability to respond effectively to changing needs and environments, demonstrating flexibility and problem-solving skills.
• Maintain confidentiality, uphold ethical standards, and adhere to agency policies and procedures in all interactions and responsibilities.
• Demonstrated strong commitment to safety.

Pay

$19.00/hour + Education Additive ($0.15/hour for Associate's Degree; $0.80/hour for Bachelor's or higher).