Direct Support Professional - Adult Program - Southern Ulster

Anderson Center for Autism • Town of Esopus, NY

5d • $21 - $26 • Onsite

About The Position

As a Direct Support Professional in our Adult Services Program, you will play a crucial role in helping individuals with autism lead more fulfilling, productive, and joyful lives. This involves creating a safe environment, facilitating skill development, and offering unconditional support to help them feel at home, build stronger social connections, and develop a sense of self. The organization offers clearly defined career tracks and comprehensive training, making this role a potential first step on a path with extraordinary potential, even for those with no prior experience.

Requirements

• Dependability, integrity, compassion, patience, and a genuine desire to protect the safety and well-being of individuals with autism.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work cooperatively and effectively as part of a team.
• The ability to adapt to changing situations, and to handle challenging circumstances with empathy, unconditional positive regard for individuals you serve, and unwavering professionalism.
• Alignment with our mission and values.
• An openness to mentorship and ongoing guidance as you navigate your role.
• Dedication to optimizing the quality of life for everyone who is part of our Anderson Center for Autism community.
• Earned a High School Diploma or GED.
• Hold a valid NYS Driver's License, and obtain and maintain agency driving privileges.
• Be 21 years of age or older.
• Availability to work 2nd or 3rd shifts, as well as weekend hours.
• Pass background checks and meet all requirements for employment.
• Capable at all times of initiating or assisting in all components of crisis intervention, should needs arise.
• Obtain and subsequently maintain qualifications in all health, safety and crisis intervention procedures of the agency, such as First Aid, CPR, SCIP-R and medication administration certification.
• Complete agency training.
• Fulfill all mandated reporting requirements, ensure compliance with agency policies, and adhere to organizational protocols.

Nice To Haves

• RBT certification

Responsibilities

• Create a safe, nurturing, professional environment while offering support and assistance to individuals with autism as they engage in various daily activities, including personal care, meal preparation, and recreational experiences.
• Help cultivate a sense of belonging and spirit of acceptance that promotes personal growth, socialization, and autonomy.
• Attend to the educational, physical, social, and emotional needs of residents, while assisting the team with goal-oriented and structured daily programming and data collection in an assigned service delivery area.
• Implement individualized support plans and behavioral strategies under the guidance of supervisors and experienced professionals.
• Maintain accurate records/documentation of progress (and any incidents) in accordance with all organizational policies and procedures.
• Help program participants gain an understanding of social, daily living, and self-advocacy skills that help them more fully thrive.
• Make life richer and more meaningful for the people in your care every single day.

Benefits

• Up to 6 weeks of paid time off (starting in your first year!)
• 403(b) retirement plan with employer match and annual contribution
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans
• Wellness program
• Ongoing professional development
• Discounted tuition at select colleges/universities
• Scholarship program for those seeking educational experiences aligned with the role (restrictions apply)
• Invitations to staff appreciation events and experiences

What This Job Offers

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