Direct Support Lead

Sevita•Oaklandon, IN

5d•Onsite

About The Position

The Direct Support Lead provides direct support within a single program or unit, typically serving 4–6 individuals in residential settings or up to 10 individuals in periodic programs. Support is delivered according to individual service or program plans and includes assistance with socialization, health maintenance, medication administration when assigned, skill and behavioral development, personal care, housekeeping, recreation, transportation, community integration, shopping, and other activities of daily living. The role includes documenting services and progress, maintaining confidentiality and individuals’ rights, supporting health care and meal plans, communicating incidents and concerns, and maintaining professional relationships with individuals and their support networks. The employee also attends required training and staff meetings, works scheduled shifts, follows workplace safety procedures, and may help with transportation, housekeeping, minor maintenance, and emergency readiness. The position has no supervisory responsibilities. The role is based at the program location and may involve accompanying individuals into the community. It is classified as non-exempt and hourly, and may be full-time or part-time. The New Jersey addendum requires cooperation with inspections and investigations, pre-employment drug testing for employees hired after June 15, 2018, random and for-cause drug testing, criminal background checks and registry checks, and successful completion of required training.

Requirements

Must be at least 18 years of age.
A valid driver’s license in good standing is required; New Jersey employees must hold a valid license in good standing in New Jersey, except commuters may hold one from their state of residence.
Must maintain applicable vehicle insurance and registration if providing transportation; driving for the company requires management approval and compliance with company driving-record and insurance requirements.
Complete all state-required training and certifications within mandated timeframes and demonstrate proficiency in required training areas.
Working knowledge of computers.
At minimum, a high school diploma or equivalent is required under the New Jersey addendum.
Must cooperate with the licensee and Department of Human Services staff during inspections, inquiries, or investigations.
Must complete criminal background checks and be determined not disqualified by the Department of Human Services before working with individuals served.
Must agree to checks against the Central Registry of Offenders Against Individuals with Developmental Disabilities and the Child Abuse Registry Information (CARI).
Employees hired after June 15, 2018 must submit to drug testing before employment; employees are also subject to random and for-cause or suspicion drug testing.
Must be able to perform heavy work: exert up to 100 pounds of force occasionally, up to 50 pounds frequently, and/or up to 20 pounds constantly to move objects.

Nice To Haves

High school diploma or equivalent is preferred in the general qualifications section; the New Jersey addendum states it is required.
Six months of experience in human services is preferred.

Responsibilities

Provide direct assistance in accordance with individual service or program plans, including support with socialization, behavioral development, personal care, housekeeping, recreation, transportation, community orientation, shopping, financial management, citizenship, and daily living activities.
Document individuals’ progress and activities accurately, review records and logs for service-plan changes, and maintain confidentiality.
Make cost-effective purchases for individuals within their budgets and according to their choices and preferences.
Maintain professional relationships with individuals, friends, families, guardians, and case managers; welcome visitors and follow customer service standards.
Report alleged abuse or neglect, and report medical, behavioral, and other incidents according to applicable policies and requirements.
Respect individuals’ rights, follow applicable rights protections, practice universal precautions, and support individuals in exercising their rights.
Accompany individuals to medical appointments as needed and relay information and orders between individuals and medical providers when required.
When assigned, administer medication or support self-administration, document medications and treatments, report errors promptly, and secure medications and supplies appropriately.
Monitor individuals’ health, document concerns, communicate with a nurse or supervisor, call 911 in emergencies, and follow health care directives.
Use medical equipment according to procedures and report malfunction or disrepair.
Prepare meals or support individuals in preparing food according to menus, preferences, and special diets; monitor mealtimes and follow dining plans.
Attend orientation, ongoing training, and monthly staff meetings.
Work scheduled hours, arrive on time, remain until a replacement arrives, notify a supervisor when unable to work as scheduled, and fill in for other shifts when required without unapproved overtime or in an emergency.
Work collaboratively and respectfully with colleagues, communicating openly and listening to others.
Follow safety policies and procedures, report hazards, and participate in safety training and activities.
Transport individuals when required, follow traffic laws, use safety equipment such as seat belts, lifts, and wheelchair ties, and promptly report accidents and safety concerns.
Perform daily and seasonal housekeeping, maintain a clean and safe environment, and report hazards.
Monitor environmental safety and make minor repairs as needed; perform yard maintenance, including keeping walkways safe and snow removal, when required; report repair needs.
Check water temperature when required during bathing assistance, participate in safety drills, and protect individuals during emergencies.
Perform other duties and activities as required.