Direct Support Professional (DSP) - per diem - 8 minimum hours

UNITED CEREBRAL PALSY ASSOCIATION OF THE NORTH COUNTRY•Town of Potsdam, NY

4h•$19 - $19

About The Position

JOB TYPE: Per Diem, not eligible for benefits RATE OF PAY: $18.90/hour SIGN-ON BONUS: $500. Sign-on bonuses are divided into four equal payments, paid out at three, six, nine, and 12 months of employment. PAY SCHEDULE: Biweekly REPORTS TO: House Manager WORK SCHEDULE: Set weekly schedule of Saturday, 1:00 PM - 9:30 PM (8 guaranteed hours). Additional hours may be available. Make a Difference Every Day Join the Cerebral Palsy Association of the North Country as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) and help individuals with developmental disabilities live safe, independent, and meaningful lives. This is rewarding, hands-on work for someone who is compassionate, dependable, and motivated to support others in reaching their personal goals. As a DSP, you will build strong relationships, provide daily support, teach life skills, encourage independence, and help create a home environment where the people we support are treated with dignity, respect, and choice. Why Join Us? Cerebral Palsy Association offers more than a job — we offer meaningful work, a team-centered environment, and the opportunity to make a real impact every day. What we offer eligible per diem employees: Competitive hourly pay Sick time Agency orientation, training, and certification requirements to help you succeed in the role 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. What a Typical Day May Include Assisting individuals with morning routines, personal care, and daily living activities Supporting medication administration and healthcare follow-through Preparing meals and helping with household tasks Teaching and reinforcing life skills such as hygiene, nutrition, money management, and domestic routines Accompanying individuals to appointments, shopping trips, and recreational outings Encouraging participation in social, educational, and community-based activities Completing documentation and communicating important updates with the team

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.
Provides appropriate personal care, support, and supervision.
Follows health care treatment orders and administers medications as directed.
Collaborates with nurses, medical facilitators, and other healthcare professionals to ensure medication and medical care plans are followed accurately.
Teaches and reinforces fire, emergency, and safety procedures.
Responsible for supporting individuals’ personal growth and independence.
Assists in the development, implementation, and evaluation of person-centered plans.
Teaches skills such as personal care, nutrition, money management, domestic tasks, and the use of adaptive/technological devices.
Encourages participation in social, educational, vocational, and recreational activities.
Serves as an advocate for the individuals supported, promoting their rights, preferences, and best interests.
Responsible for maintaining the residential environment.
Assists with housekeeping, upkeep, and cleanliness of the home.
Ensures ramps, walkways, and common areas are clear and safe.
Reports safety concerns, maintenance needs, or environmental hazards to the house manager or appropriate parties.
Responsible for transportation and community support as needed.
Transports and accompanies individuals to doctor’s appointments, shopping trips, and recreational outings using Agency vehicles or personal vehicle when necessary.
Maintains agency vehicles, reporting any concerns or maintenance needs promptly.
Coordinates vehicle use and scheduling with supervisors.
Responsible for maintaining accurate documentation, communication, and financial stewardship.
Documents care, activities, and cash transactions appropriately.
Maintains communication with families, guardians, and other significant individuals.
Exercises financial stewardship of Agency resources and those of the individuals supported, ensuring accurate records and responsible use.
Responsible for compliance, regulatory adherence, and professional accountability.
Follow all Agency policies, procedures, and applicable state and federal regulations, including OPWDD rules and Justice Center requirements.
Report safety, abuse, neglect, or regulatory concerns promptly and appropriately.
Participate in internal investigations and provide accurate information when requested.
Complete required Agency and regulatory trainings to maintain compliance and professional competency.
Responsible for flexibility, teamwork, and collaboration.
Works varied schedules, including evenings, overnights, weekends, holidays, and mandated coverage.
Collaborates effectively with colleagues, supervisors, and other team members to ensure consistent, high-quality care.
Responsible for professional communication and behavior.
Demonstrates effective, professional communication and behavior with colleagues, individuals, and external partners.
Completes and submits required paperwork and records in a timely manner.
Performs other duties as requested or directed by supervisor.