Direct Support Professional 1 (DSP 1) - Department 329

Bridgewell • Lynn, MA

10d • $21 - $21

About The Position

Bridgewell is a social and human services organization that supports people with disabilities and other life challenges through community housing, day programs, treatment, recovery services, education, and employment training. Its mission is to inspire hope and empower people experiencing life challenges to achieve their fullest potential.

The Direct Support Professional provides support to people with developmental, physical, and psychiatric disabilities according to the needs of the assigned residential program. The role includes daily intervention, supervision, and skills training in activities of daily living, both at home and in the community. People supported may need physical assistance or accommodations. Staff receive and must pass specialized training for enhanced supervision or interventions, which may address multiple disabilities, behavioral support, or enhanced medical care. Depending on program needs, staff may also need specialized certifications, credentials, or training in areas such as PABC, ABA techniques, autism, behavioral support, or healthcare.

The schedule is Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., for 40 hours per week. The role may involve assisting people with physical, behavioral, and medical needs, including people weighing more than 200 pounds. Reasonable accommodations may be considered, subject to the needs of the people served and relevant safety factors. Candidates must have acceptable CORI results according to Bridgewell policy.

Bridgewell describes its work environment as compassionate and collaborative, with opportunities for training, development, and growth. It offers health benefits, paid time off including the employee’s birthday, and additional compensation for on-call rotations.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED, or at least 5 years of verified experience in the same position.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills for clear and articulate documentation.
• Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills.
• Computer literacy, including proficient use of Microsoft products such as email, Word, and Excel, and agency web-based applications.
• Ability to drive a large and/or wheelchair van.
• Valid U.S. driver’s license and at least 1 year of driving experience in the United States.
• Ability to climb stairs and physically assist people with movement and personal care, including toileting and transfers into or out of a tub, shower, or wheelchair.
• Ability to provide lifting, balanced support, and physical intervention when needed; people supported may weigh more than 200 pounds.
• Ability to drive a 12-passenger van.
• Acceptable CORI results according to Bridgewell policy.

Nice To Haves

• At least 1 year of experience working with people with developmental or psychiatric disabilities is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide support and skills training in activities of daily living, based on the assigned shift.
• Create opportunities for people supported to make decisions, develop skills, and foster independence.
• Deliver services in accordance with applicable DDS, DMH, MassHealth, HUD, DPH, and CARF standards and Bridgewell policies and procedures.
• Assist with medical, clinical, and financial needs.
• Transport and accompany people supported to medical appointments, recreational activities, and other activities outside the program as needed.
• Maintain daily progress notes, shift checklists, shift assignments, and other required documentation.
• Complete assigned household cleaning duties.
• Conduct steady care calls as required for awake overnight shifts.
• Help people supported access community resources and recreational opportunities.
• Administer medications according to MAP regulations, as applicable.
• Maintain required training certifications, including applicable FA/CPR, PABC, and MAP certifications, and other program-mandated training.
• Develop positive relationships with guardians, family members, and other stakeholders.
• Serve as the program’s designated Fire Safety Officer, Safety Coordinator, or Human Rights Officer.
• Comply with Bridgewell’s Safety Checks Policy.
• Attend and participate in program staff meetings and supervision meetings.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision benefits.
• Paid time off, including the employee’s birthday.
• Additional compensation for on-call rotations.
• Training and development opportunities.
• Professional development and growth opportunities.
• Collaborative work environment that values new insight and personal contributions.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED