Direct Support Professional (Full-Time, Part Time and Relief)

Pathway to Possible Inc•Newton, MA

21d•$22 - $23•Onsite

About The Position

Pathway to Possible is a congregate care facility providing independent and assisted living for adults with developmental disabilities in the Newton and Wellesley areas. The program supports adults referred by the Department of Developmental Services in building self-sufficiency, independent living skills, productive participation in their residential program, and lifelong connections. The organization aims to provide a safe, healthy, and welcoming environment while ensuring resident safety. The Direct Support Professional provides supervision, companionship, and support to residents, including reminders about daily schedules and assistance with daily living. Staff serve as role models and develop positive relationships with residents. The position is per diem and covers residential and overnight shifts to address temporary vacancies or absences. The role may involve accompanying residents to appointments, maintaining records, supporting activities and household upkeep, responding to emergencies, and working collaboratively with staff.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Two to three years of experience working in a residential setting.
Demonstrated ability to engage with clients who exhibit challenging behaviors.
Ability to read and write English and proficiently document and update case records and logs.
First Aid/CPR certification, or ability to obtain it within one month of hire.
Ability to work with individuals with developmental disabilities and with diverse staff, clients, and volunteers.
Flexibility, a team-oriented approach, ability to work with minimal to moderate supervision, sound judgment, and proactive problem-solving skills.
Professional demeanor and strong interpersonal and communication skills.
Ability to lift up to 15 pounds.
Ability to provide physical assistance to adults using wheelchairs.
Ability to evacuate supported individuals within 2½ minutes.
Ability to assist individuals in transferring from sitting to standing.
Legally authorized to work in the United States.
Valid Massachusetts driver’s license.
Clear CORI and SORI background checks as required by state and federal law.
Clear DPPC registry check as required by state law.
Clear fingerprint-based DDS criminal background check.
Current MAP certification and ability to maintain MAP certification throughout employment.
Comfort working in an environment with a therapeutic cat.

Nice To Haves

Associate degree or bachelor’s degree.

Responsibilities

Provide supervision and document activities according to program policies and protocols, including during program-sponsored outside activities.
Provide supportive counseling and intervention to residents as needed.
Maintain shift coverage and provide primary supervision and support to residential clients.
Assist the Case Manager, House Manager, or Program Supervisor in monitoring residents’ compliance with daily expectations.
Help maintain a safe, dignified, and orderly atmosphere by enforcing program rules, policies, and procedures and following agency policies.
Assist the Case Manager in monitoring residents’ compliance with service-plan tasks and goals.
Model and encourage appropriate behavior related to daily living skills, self-care, personal interaction, social relationships, and constructive time management.
Coordinate social activities for residents.
Accompany residents to appointments when necessary and participate in appointments when required.
Familiarize oneself with Pathway to Possible policies and procedures.
Maintain the program’s daily logbook, recording residents’ activities, issues, and problems.
Maintain residents’ case records according to program guidelines.
If MAP certified, administer and record medications in the medical log.
Facilitate informal discussions with residents and staff about house issues, maintenance, schedules, and other program matters.
Maintain appropriate professional boundaries and observe client confidentiality standards.
Respond to resident requests professionally and courteously.
Limit facility access to participants, staff, authorized visitors, and service providers, and help maintain adequate health and safety standards.
Perform daily maintenance, cleaning, and kitchen duties, including preparing and cleaning rooms and common, kitchen, dining, and office areas; assist with serving meals as needed.
Assist in maintaining positive community relations.
Respond appropriately to emergencies, contact appropriate staff, interact with emergency personnel as needed, and contact the on-call agency worker according to program guidelines.
Promote a cooperative, harmonious, and respectful teamwork environment consistent with the organization’s philosophy and policies.
Communicate with team members to support consistency and teamwork among staff.
Provide professional reception services, relay timely and accurate messages, and provide information about available services upon request.
Complete assigned shift-specific tasks and other duties as assigned.