Direct Support Professional / Job Coach (35 hrs Mon-Fri)

Progressive Directions Inc. (PDI)•Columbia, TN

20h

About The Position

Progressive Directions, Inc. (PDI) is hiring a full-time DSP Job Coach for its MAPS Program in Dickson, Tennessee. The role directly supports people with intellectual and developmental disabilities as they build independence, explore their communities, develop job skills, use technology, and pursue personally chosen goals, hobbies, and interests. This is not described as a traditional caregiving role; the coach helps participants develop skills and confidence rather than simply completing tasks for them. The position provides individualized direct and remote support in employment and career development, independent living, community navigation, and enabling technology. Coaches support participant choice, dignity, self-determination, safety, and quality of life while encouraging appropriate risk-taking and independent decision-making. The role is approximately 35 hours per week, hourly and non-exempt, with a flexible schedule based on participant needs that may include days, afternoons, evenings, nights, and weekends. The MAPs Coach reports directly to the MAPs Program Director and has no supervisory responsibilities.

Requirements

Must be at least 18 years of age.
High school diploma or equivalent.
Valid unrestricted driver's license.
Excellent verbal, written, and listening communication skills.
Basic computer and tablet skills and comfort learning and using new technology.
Ability to provide both in-person and remote supports.
Strong organization and documentation skills.
Ability to work independently.
Reliable and consistent attendance.
Ability to maintain professional boundaries and confidentiality.
A genuine commitment to supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in achieving greater independence.
Ability to utilize enabling technology.
Ability to successfully complete required MAPs certifications and training.
Ability to successfully complete CPR and First Aid certification.
Ability to successfully complete Medication Administration training when required.
Ability to complete Relias and other required PDI training.
Successful completion of applicable criminal background screening, drug test, required registry and employment eligibility checks, TB screening or assessment within required timeframes, and any additional security or program-related clearances.
Ability to sit, stand, and walk for varying periods of time and, depending on the needs of the person supported, bend, stoop, kneel, push, pull, assist with transfers or mobility, and lift or support up to approximately 50 pounds.

Responsibilities

Provide direct and remote support to MAPs participants based on their individualized goals.
Help participants work toward goals established throughout Years 1, 2, and 3 of the MAPs program.
Support participants in exploring career interests and employment opportunities and obtaining, maintaining, and advancing in competitive integrated employment.
Help participants develop workplace and pre-employment skills, and provide on-the-job coaching and support.
Support participants in exploring customized employment, self-employment, volunteer, and internship opportunities; developing career goals; and connecting with benefits counseling and employment resources.
Support participants in learning independent living skills, including home safety, personal hygiene and self-care, health management, meal planning and basic food preparation, grocery shopping and budgeting, personal money management, and household responsibilities.
Help participants identify community activities, organizations, and resources that match their interests; build community relationships and natural supports; navigate neighborhoods; develop transportation and travel skills; and participate in community activities.
Support participants in learning to use enabling technology at home, work, school or training, community activities, transportation, and in daily living.
Work with the MAPs Program Director to develop individualized community resource maps.
Promote participant choice, independence, dignity, respect, self-determination, and quality of life.
Encourage participants to make informed choices and take an active role in setting their own goals.
Help participants develop skills rather than simply completing tasks for them.
Maintain participant safety while encouraging independence and appropriate risk-taking.
Document services, activities, observations, progress, and participant responses accurately and on time.
Maintain confidentiality of participant information.
Communicate participant-related concerns or changes to the MAPs Program Director.
Administer medications according to Medication Safety requirements when applicable.
Maintain professional relationships with participants, families, natural supports, employers, community partners, and other resources.
Attend required meetings and training.
Follow PDI policies, procedures, safety requirements, and emergency procedures.
Perform other duties as assigned.