Direct Care Worker II

Commonwealth of Massachusetts•North Brookfield, MA

11d•Onsite

About The Position

The Department of Developmental Services seeks a caring and compassionate Direct Care Worker II (DCW II). This is a shift supervisor role providing oversight and direct services to individuals with developmental disabilities. The position offers work experience that may support professional development and advancement within DDS. The DCW II supports individuals with personal care, nutrition, daily choices, rights, health, safety, and leisure activities. The role supervises and trains Direct Care Worker I staff, administers medications, and communicates with medical and health care providers. The position is located in the South Valley West Program in North Brookfield, Massachusetts, and is scheduled from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m., with Friday and Saturday off. This is a 24-hour, seven-day-a-week staff position, and mandatory overtime may be required when circumstances dictate. After successfully completing Medication Administration Program (MAP) training, employees must obtain and maintain MAP Certification. Applicants must hold a current, valid driver’s license at the class level required for the assignment; the special requirements section specifies a Class D license. Applicants must have 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 education. An associate’s degree or higher in a human services field or a related field may substitute for the required experience. The Commonwealth offers a comprehensive employee benefits package. The position is subject to vaccination or mitigation requirements for COVID-19 and influenza under the stated regulation. Recommended candidates must complete pre-employment screening, including abuse registry, criminal background, and fingerprint-based national background checks.

Requirements

At least one year of full-time or equivalent part-time experience providing direct support services to persons with developmental, intellectual, emotional, or physical disabilities, or an equivalent combination of qualifying experience and substitutions.
A current and valid motor vehicle driver’s license at the class level specific to the assignment; the posting specifies a Class D license.
Upon successful completion of MAP training, obtain and maintain MAP Certification.
Complete required pre-employment screening, including the DPPC Abuse Registry Search, CORI criminal background check, and fingerprint-based national background check.
Acknowledge and attest to COVID-19 and influenza vaccination status, or comply with required mitigation measures, as applicable.

Nice To Haves

An associate’s degree or higher in a human services field or related field may substitute for the required experience.
Knowledge of practices and procedures necessary to assure individuals’ health and safety, including evacuation procedures.
Ability to plan, assign, and coordinate the activities of others.
Ability to give written or oral instructions clearly and understandably.

Responsibilities

Assist individuals with personal care and nutritional needs.
Support individuals in making choices in their lives.
Protect individuals’ rights by complying with applicable laws and regulations.
Provide leisure activities and, as needed, drive individuals to work, appointments, and recreational activities.
Provide daily supervision and training to Direct Care Worker I staff, ensuring they advocate for individuals and demonstrate respect and positive regard.
Oversee individuals’ health and safety during the shift, including administering medications.
Communicate with appropriate medical and health care providers about health concerns.
Accompany individuals to appointments as necessary.