Direct Support Professional (DSP) - Residential Services

Cerebral Palsy Association of the North Country • Colton, NY

23d • $19

About The Position

Cerebral Palsy Association of the North Country seeks individuals with professionalism and heart to fulfill the role of Direct Support Professional (DSP) in our Individualized Residential Alternatives (IRAs). The IRA is a group home to 3 – 6 people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. The DSP works within the residence to provide individualized personal care, mentorship, support, and a sense of stability and security to the individuals who call the residence home. Services may include assisting with personal care, assisting with daily living skills, transporting individuals to appointments or accompanying them to participate in community activities, dispensing medication (after additional training and certification), ensuring safety, providing a friendly ear and emotional support, assisting with residence cleaning and upkeep, and completing required documentation, to name a few. We have locations in Canton, Potsdam, Edwardsville (Hammond), Massena, Norwood, and Colton. We are currently hiring in Colton for part-time (minimum 30 hours per week, benefit-eligible) evening and overnight shifts. REPORTS TO: House Manager RATE OF PAY : $18.90/hour; biweekly pay structure SIGN-ON BONUS DETAILS: Sign-on bonuses are paid as follows for Direct Support Professional positions: $500 for per diem status (less than 30 hours per week) $750 for part-time status (30 - 37 hours per week) $1,000 for full-time status (37.5 - 40 hours per week) Sign-on bonuses are divided into four equal payments, paid out at three, six, nine, and 12 months of employment. WORK SCHEDULE : This varies based on the needs of the agency and the individuals that we support. Opportunities are available across day, evening, and overnight shifts, including full-time, part-time, and per diem schedules. POSITION SUMMARY: The Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides compassionate, person-centered care and support to individuals with developmental disabilities living in Individual Residential Alternatives (IRAs). The DSP helps individuals achieve their personal goals, maintain their health and safety, and build independence, dignity, and inclusion in daily life, while fostering a supportive and respectful environment.

Requirements

• High School Diploma, GED, or DSP certification required.
• Successful completion of Agency orientation and training programs.
• Successful completion of Medication Certification training program.
• NYS Driver’s License with two years of driving experience required.
• Acceptable motor vehicle abstract to meet Agency insurability standards.
• Reliable personal vehicle for business use.
• Heavy work; ability to frequently lift 25 – 50 lbs., and transfer and support individuals with and without help.
• Physical strength to safely respond should a behavioral crisis occur.
• Ability to operate personal and Agency vehicles.
• Ability to walk and stand for extended periods of time.
• Exposure to infectious diseases, hygiene issues, food, and other unpleasant odors.
• Able to tolerate atmospheric conditions when performing regular outdoor seasonal activities.
• Ability to operate mechanical devices used by individuals.

Responsibilities

• Responsible for ensuring the health and safety of individuals at all times.
• Responsible for supporting individuals’ personal growth and independence.
• Responsible for maintaining the residential environment.
• Responsible for transportation and community support as needed.
• Responsible for maintaining accurate documentation, communication, and financial stewardship.
• Responsible for compliance, regulatory adherence, and professional accountability.
• Responsible for flexibility, teamwork, and collaboration.
• Responsible for professional communication and behavior.

Benefits

• Cerebral Palsy Association offers eligible employees excellent, affordable benefits options.
• Options include medical, dental, and vision insurance, Flexible Spending Account (FSA), Term Life/AD&D insurance, long-term and short-term disability, 401(k), and other elective programs.
• We also offer generous time off, including vacation, personal, and sick time, as well as paid holidays.

What This Job Offers

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