Respite Worker - Jamaica, Queens NY

Job Description

The Respite Worker provides services to individuals with developmental disabilities in their homes and communities. Key responsibilities include:

• Providing supervision and support to ensure the safety of individuals while caregivers take breaks.
• Performing lifting and one-to-one functions as needed.
• Engaging in skill-building activities tailored to the preferences of the individuals served.
• Maintaining the safety and well-being of individuals, taking immediate action when necessary and reporting concerns to supervisors.
• Encouraging social interaction and advocacy for the rights of individuals served.
• Communicating health-related issues to supervisors or administrators as required.
• Interacting professionally with individuals, families, team members, and the broader community.
• Participating in staff meetings and supervision to foster professional growth and development.
• Completing required training and adhering to policies and procedures, including the NADSP Code of Ethics and the Corporate Compliance Plan.
• Reporting to work on time and maintaining a professional schedule.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The Respite Worker performs a variety of duties, including:

• Providing direct care and support services.
• Assisting individuals in building positive relationships within their communities.
• Encouraging community integration and promoting inclusion.
• Communicating health care concerns to supervisors or administrators.
• Documenting fire drills and other safety protocols.
• Adhering to the NADSP Code of Ethics, Justice Center Code of Conduct, and NYS DSP Core Competencies.
• Implementing the Corporate Compliance Plan and related policies and procedures.
• Completing required training and continuing education.
• Reporting to work on time and adhering to the assigned schedule.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Ability to instruct others on vocational or daily living skills.
• Active listening and effective communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal and motivational skills.
• Good analytical abilities and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Proficiency in using computers and appropriate software.
• Ability to self-initiate projects and lead when needed.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information.
• Ability to operate an agency vehicle if needed.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to operate an agency vehicle if needed.
• Good oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English.
• Strong interpersonal and motivational skills.
• Good analytical abilities with problem-solving and follow-up skills.
• Ability to work independently and handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Proficiency in using a personal computer and appropriate software.
• Ability to self-initiate projects and function autonomously as a leader when needed.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to communicate professionally with individuals, families, team members, and the community.
• Ability to adhere to and implement the NADSP Code of Ethics, Justice Center Code of Conduct, and NYS DSP Core Competencies.
• Ability to adhere to and implement Agency and Program Policies and Procedures, including HIPAA, Confidentiality, and the Corporate Compliance Plan and related policies and procedures.

Physical Demands

• Ability to perform the essential physical functions of the job, including stooping, lifting, kneeling, pushing, pulling, reaching, standing, walking, hearing, listening, and communicating appropriately.

Work Environment

• Program and community-based environments.