Direct Support Professional (DSP)

SUMMARY:

Provide care, supervision, instruction, and support to individuals in accordance with state and agency guidelines. Ensure the health, welfare and safety of each individual being supported. Promotes and provide opportunities for each individual to develop and grow towards greater independence.

KEY RELATIONSHIP:
Program manager/Program Director/Program Specialist, Direct Support co-workers, individuals, and families.
Supports such as nursing and day program staff.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
Assist individuals with household management, including shopping, meal preparation, cleaning, laundry, and all other household chores. The DSP is responsible for performing these duties in cases where the individuals do not participate.
Provide well -balanced, nutritious meals, following any established diet plans.
Assist individuals with personal hygiene care, including bathing and toileting individuals who need assistance with these tasks.
Transport individuals to appointments, jobs, day programs, and any other community outings, adhering to all vehicle and driving procedures and regulations.
Follow established procedures for vehicle and household maintenance, including submitting maintenance requests and preforming maintenance tasks as directed.
Administer medications to individuals accurately and in accordance with policies and procedures.
Complete forms and reports as directed by supervisor, including entries in the daily log book and monthly reports.
Maintain required records, including vehicle and petty cash records.
Carry out goal plans and behavior management program, and record data as required.
Provide instruction in self-help skills, social skills, and community orientation.
Assist individuals in making informed choices, trying new experiences, developing, relationships, and becoming self-advocates.
Participate in program planning appropriately as a team member.

Communicate effectively and professionally with individuals, co-workers, families, and community members.
Maintain awareness of health of individuals, including monitoring for signs and symptoms of illness, or other problems.
Maintain knowledge of the whereabouts of the individuals at all times.
Act immediately and appropriately in an emergency, including calling emergency units, administering CPR or First Aid, or transporting individuals to emergency services.
Follow all safety procedures and regulations, and maintain a safe, healthy environment for individuals and coworkers.
Complete all required trainings.
Pass and maintain certification in Medication Administration.
Other duties and responsibilities may be assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

High School Diploma or a GED
Valid drivers license and clean driving record
Clear criminal record and other background checks in accordance with state requirements
Ability to pass all required trainings, including CPR, First Aid and Medication Administration
Ability to convey, understand and follow spoken and written instructions in English
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Core Competencies:
Demonstrated understanding of and beliefs in positive approaches as a guiding philosophy, along with a strong commitment to community integration for people with disabilities.
Ability to work semi-independently or independently as required, in a n effective, professionals and members of the community.
Ability to communicate effectively, both oral and written form.
Demonstrated respect for the rights and confidentiality of the individuals.

Physical Demands:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job.
Be capable of using one's body in a variety of postures and positions for varied periods of time (kneeling, crouching, sitting, standing, reaching, climbing/descending stairs) while working be able to lift and move objects up to 50 pounds and be able to push/pull and maneuver objects or equipment required for work. Ability to lift up to 75 pounds when performing a two-person lift/transfer of an individual. Ability to travel up to 50 milesBe capable of visual and auditory scanning of the work environment as to monitor the facility to ensure safe and effective operations.

Working Conditions:

• Staff in this position work in a typical home setting in the community. Noise level is moderate. The work schedule may require flexibility, including the ability to remain at work until relieved and/ or to work overtime hours as required. Some weekend and holiday shifts are typically required.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $15.00 - $17.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule
• Paid time off

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Day shift
• Evening shift
• Holidays
• Night shift
• On call
• Overnight shift
• Overtime
• Weekend availability
• Weekends only

Ability to commute/relocate:

• Philadelphia, PA: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Required)

Experience:

• Caregiving: 1 year (Preferred)

Shift availability:

• Day Shift (Preferred)
• Night Shift (Preferred)
• Overnight Shift (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $15 - $17