Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Job Description

Job Description

As a Direct Service Professional (DSP) at EmployAbility, you will play a crucial role in providing compassionate care and support to individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD). The DSP position involves hands-on assistance with daily living activities, transportation, feeding, toileting, and facilitating person-centered community engagement activities. This role offers an opportunity to make a positive impact by promoting independence, inclusion, and quality of life for our participants.

Exempt: Non-Exempt: Yes

Title: Direct Support Professional (DSP) Reports To: Day Services Manager

Department: Day Services Effective Date: September 8, 2024

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES

• Provide direct assistance and support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in the day program setting.
• Assist participants with activities of daily living, personal care tasks, and skill-building exercises as needed.
• Ensure the safety, comfort, and well-being of participants at all times.
• Safely transport individuals to and from the day program and into the community, utilizing agency vehicles or personal vehicles as necessary.
• Adhere to transportation protocols, safety regulations, and schedules to ensure timely arrival and departure for participants.
• Assist individuals with feeding, following dietary guidelines, and promoting healthy eating habits.
• Provide support and encouragement to promote independence in mealtime routines.
• Assist individuals with toileting needs, respecting privacy and dignity while providing necessary assistance.
• Follow established protocols for hygiene and sanitation to maintain a clean and comfortable environment.
• Facilitate community engagement activities, including volunteer opportunities, recreational outings, and educational workshops while maintaining a person-centered mindset.
• Encourage socialization, interaction, and integration within the community to enhance the overall quality of life for participants.
• Provide feedback and updates to supervisor and Case Management with details regarding participants for ISPs, SISs, BSPs.
• Complete Work Skills Assessment on each client on the caseload in a quarterly report.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date documentation, including progress notes, incident reports, and participation records within an appropriate length of time.
• Maintain up-to-date training and qualifications as assigned.
• Communicate effectively with team members, supervisors, participants, and families to ensure continuity of care and individualized support.
• Develop and deliver engaging and interactive Pre-employment Transition Services (PreETs) training sessions to students with disabilities, covering topics such as job exploration, workplace readiness, self-advocacy, and independent living skills.

COMPETENCIES

1. Knowledge of HIPAA regulations and confidentiality requirements.
2. Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
3. Passion for and experience in working with individuals with IDD.
4. Skill in the operation of computers and job-related software programs.
5. Skill at implementing activities that match choices made by individuals and writing in an accurate detailed manner.
6. Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
7. Strong decision-making and problem-solving skills.
8. Must be versatile, self-motivated, and accountable.
9. Must be able to manage stressful situations and work as part of a team.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

1. High school diploma or equivalent.
2. Must have a valid driver’s license and current insurance.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

1. Prior work experience in a similar professional environment.
2. Prior experience as Certified Nursing Assistant.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

1. Working Conditions: Will work indoors and outdoors in various training and enrichment environments.
2. Equipment Operation: Will operate an EmployAbility van to transport individuals to and from community partners’ sites. Computer work is required.
3. Physical Requirements: Must be able to lift at least 50 pounds and stand for long periods. Effective verbal and auditory communication skills are necessary. Vision must be adequate to operate vehicles and equipment safely.

SALARY/BENEFITS

Salary is commensurate with education, qualifications, and work experience. Full-time benefits include paid holidays, paid time off, and a comprehensive benefits package.

APPLICATION DEADLINE

Position considered open until filled. A background investigation and fingerprinting will be required. This job description is a temporary guide, subject to change at the discretion of management. The incumbent may be required to perform any other related duties as required by the supervisor. If you are employed after hours with a job other than EmployAbility, please contact Human Resources to complete the required form.