Direct Support Professional - DSP 1

YAI•Pleasantville, NJ

15h•$17 - $18

About The Position

YAI supports people of all ages with intellectual and developmental disabilities in achieving the fullest lives possible by creating new opportunities for living, loving, working and learning. YAI is a network of agencies with programs that empower and enhance the lives of thousands of people we support and their families. YAI promotes a person-centered approach by creating supports that cater to the specific needs of each person. Join our dynamic team teaching daily and independent living skills, providing individual and group counseling, and promoting community integration. The ideal candidate will have enthusiasm for working with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and a willingness to help with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) such as assisting with showering, toileting, grooming, laundry and housekeeping as necessary. Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) work directly with people in their home, work, and daily life in varying capacities. Typically, a DSP 1 works in one region. Mission Statement: YAI is a network of agencies offering people with intellectual and developmental disabilities a comprehensive range of services across all ages. YAI empowers people with disabilities to reach their goals every day. Our enthusiastic staff of over 4,000 professionals believes that everyone has a fundamental right to live, love, work, and learn. If you share our vision and want to help support people to live the fullest lives possible, apply to this position.

Requirements

A High School Diploma or GED is preferred; some college is a plus
Work or life experience with intellectual/developmental disabilities is a plus
Ability to support people with intellectual/developmental disabilities
Basic written and verbal communication
Basic Computer knowledge
Valid NY State Driver's License may be required depending upon the position
Tuberculosis test mandatory for most positions

Nice To Haves

Interpersonal and problem-solving skills
Willingness to take initiative

Responsibilities

Maintaining Professionalism and Punctuality
Taking Ownership/ Accountability
Being Flexible: Job responsibilities may change based on needs
Adhering to policies, procedures and regulations
Using effective communication skills & time management skills
Being a member of a highly effective team (Teamwork within the circle of support)
Ensuring maintenance upkeep and safety based on facility/ program structure
Completing mandatory trainings based on the program and position (AMAP, CPR/First Aid, SCIP-R, Defensive Driving, etc.), as well as applying skills
Meeting and demonstrating OPWDD Core Competencies
Ensuring health, wellness and safety
Ensuring appropriate supervision of the people we support
Understanding when to contact an administrator for support
Demonstrating a willingness to assist people with ADLs
Transporting and escorting people we support on recreational activities, medical appointment, home visits, etc.
Building Positive relationships
Using person first language
Maintaining a therapeutic environment through a variety of methods: Personal Outcome Measures, Person Centered Thinking, Informed Decision Making
Ensuring person centered plans are implemented
Completing documentation to ensure compliance and billing
Using foundational Teaching skills (EMOE, Task analysis, essential skills, supports and modifications, etc.
Assisting people with making purchases, as well as safeguard personal allowance funds and any additional funds provided
Managing crisis