FT/PT Direct Support Professional I (DSP) - New Hope

Lifeworks Services • New Hope, MN

1d • $18 - $19 • Onsite

About The Position

Lifeworks is seeking a full-time/part-time Direct Support Professional I to advocate for and support individuals with developmental disabilities or related conditions—helping them build skills, access opportunities, and achieve the goals that matter most to them. Lifeworks is an industry leader on the forward edge of partnering with people with disabilities in innovative, person-centered ways. Disability inclusion is our true north, guiding every service we provide and ensuring that people with disabilities have opportunities, can thrive, and defy expectations. The Lifeworks Team is collaborative, passionate, and strategic, using a person-centered approach to increase access in our communities.

Requirements

• High school diploma required.
• Access to reliable transportation for work driving purposes.
• Fluent in English, verbal and written.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Valid driver’s license and proof of auto insurance.
• Candidate must complete and pass a pre-employment background study; a physical and drug screen; and have access to reliable transportation for work purposes.

Nice To Haves

• Passionate about working at a mission-driven organization which promotes self-determination and choice for people with disabilities.
• Enjoy developing innovative opportunities which enhance everyday lives.
• Seek out diverse perspectives and are willing to learn with and from others.
• Engaged by supporting others in building new skills, exploring their interests, and meeting their goals.
• Flexible and like working in a fast-paced environment which can change day to day.
• Can communicate effectively both through writing and speaking with others.
• Tech savvy and familiar with video meeting software, like Zoom, and Microsoft Office products like Outlook, Word, and Microsoft Teams.
• Open to learning new skills which will help you be successful in this role and expand your career opportunities.

Responsibilities

• Identifying, implementing, and documenting individuals’ preferences, attributes, goals, outcomes, and support needs—including positive support and training strategies—as detailed in the Support Plan Addendum (SPA). This includes both community and center-based services that promote person-centered support.
• Following person-centered plans, outcomes, and goals, including opportunities for choice and what is important to and for the person.
• Supporting person-centered service development such as sharing ordinary places, growing in relationships, making choices, being respected, and contributing to the community where individuals live and work. This may include attending a person’s support team meeting.
• Providing information or training to co-workers regarding individuals’ service requirements and support needs.
• Providing support and assistance necessary for individuals to complete personal care routines (eating, bathroom, and medical assistance).
• Arranging and/or providing necessary transportation to and from community sites in conjunction with other staff and team members, including driving individuals in a personal or Lifeworks vehicle.
• Building and sustaining relationships within the community to enhance access to inclusive social opportunities for individuals.
• Attending regularly scheduled trainings and team meetings.
• Building community relationships and teaching skills for independence and volunteering; coordination with employment teams may be required.
• Following safety procedures and assisting in identifying safety needs for self and others. Performing other duties as assigned.
• Collaborating with the Team Lead to improve planning, support, and social opportunities for persons served.

Benefits

• 18 days of PTO accrued in the first year of employment
• 11 paid holidays (New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Day after Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and a Personal Holiday)
• Medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D insurance, short & long-term disability coverage
• Health Savings Account (HSA), Flexible Savings Account (FSA), and prescription drug coverage
• Up to $3,000 annually in tuition reimbursement and student loan forgiveness when eligibility requirements are met
• 403(b) retirement plan – Lifeworks contributes 3% of your salary and matches up to 4% of employee contributions
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

What This Job Offers

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