Direct Care Worker II

Commonwealth of Massachusetts•Westborough, MA

6d•Onsite

About The Position

The Department of Developmental Services Metro Region is hiring a Direct Care Worker II, the second level in the direct support series. The role oversees the day-to-day operation of a shift, supports and supervises staff in lower grades, and provides meaningful support to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in their homes and communities. Duties include protecting individuals’ rights and dignity; supervising and training Direct Support Worker I staff; assisting individuals with daily living, social, and leisure skills; providing health and safety interventions; maintaining confidential records and accounting for individuals’ funds; and helping with housekeeping, meals, laundry, and maintenance. Required certifications include Medication Administration Program (MAP), CPR, First Aid, and an approved de-escalation/restraint curriculum. This position is with the Metro Residential Services Program in Westborough, Massachusetts. The posted schedule is Friday through Tuesday, 2:45 p.m. to 11:15 p.m., with Wednesday and Thursday off. Schedule flexibility is required to meet program needs. This is a 24-hour, seven-day-a-week staff position designated as an emergency position; employees may be required to report during a declared state of emergency and perform mandatory overtime when circumstances require it.

Requirements

At least one year of full-time or equivalent part-time experience providing direct support services to people with developmental, intellectual, emotional, or physical disabilities, or an equivalent combination of experience and qualifying substitutions.
An associate’s degree or higher in a human services field may substitute for the required experience.
Possess a current and valid Class D motor vehicle operator’s license, or a current and valid motor vehicle license at the class level specific to the assignment.
Pass the Medication Administration Program (MAP) certification.
After completing the training program, acquire and maintain CPR and First Aid certifications and certification in a DDS-approved de-escalation/restraint curriculum, currently PABC.
Be able to work a flexible schedule, including varied shifts or irregular hours, weekends, holidays, or nights, as program needs require.
Be able to perform mandatory overtime when circumstances dictate.
Complete required pre-employment screening, including abuse registry, criminal background, and fingerprint-based background checks.
Acknowledge and attest to COVID-19 and influenza vaccination status or required mitigation measures, as applicable to the position.

Nice To Haves

Capacity to participate in interdisciplinary health care teams.
Skill in establishing rapport and dealing tactfully with people from varied ethnic, cultural, and economic backgrounds, including people experiencing physical or emotional stress or stressful settings.
Ability to provide supportive supervision to staff in lower grades.
Demonstrated knowledge of standard DDS policies, procedures, methods, techniques, and safety practices.
Ability to establish relationships with individuals, families, providers, physicians, and staff members.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office products, including Word, Excel, and Outlook.

Responsibilities

Maintain, promote, and protect individuals’ rights and dignity in compliance with DDS and local, state, and federal regulations.
Functionally supervise Direct Support Worker I staff, including daily supervision and training, and ensure compliance with DDS’s mission and guiding principles.
Provide direct care in daily living, social, and leisure skills by instructing, supporting, and interacting with individuals.
Provide health and safety interventions, including medication administration, First Aid, CPR, crisis intervention, behavioral intervention, and fire safety.
Document, maintain, and review confidential individual records, and account for funds distributed for recreation, shopping, and inclusion activities.
Assist with housekeeping and food-related duties, including menu planning, meal and snack preparation, cleaning, laundry, and maintenance activities.