Mishawaka St. Andrews

Sevita•Mishawaka, IN

About The Position

The Direct Support Professional provides direct support to individuals within a program or unit, typically supporting 4–6 people in residential settings or up to 10 people in periodic programs. The role follows individual service and program plans and supports socialization, health maintenance, medication administration, and skill and behavioral development. It also assists individuals with personal care, housekeeping, recreation, transportation, community integration, shopping, citizenship, and other activities of daily living. The position maintains accurate records, protects confidentiality and individual rights, supports health care and meal plans, and communicates relevant information to supervisors, nurses, families, guardians, case managers, and medical providers. It also contributes to a safe, clean environment, may transport individuals, attends required training and staff meetings, and works scheduled hours as assigned. The role has no supervisory responsibilities. Work takes place at the program location and may involve accompanying individuals into the community. The position requires heavy work, including exerting up to 100 pounds of force occasionally, up to 50 pounds frequently, and up to 20 pounds constantly to move objects. New Jersey requirements include cooperation with inspections and investigations, pre-employment and random or for-cause drug testing, criminal background checks and registry checks, and successful completion of required training.

Requirements

At least 18 years of age.
At minimum, a high school diploma or equivalent is required under the New Jersey addendum.
Valid driver’s license in good standing; New Jersey residents must hold a valid license in New Jersey, while commuting employees may hold a valid license in their state of residence.
If providing transportation, car registration and vehicle insurance are required; employees who drive for the company must meet insurance and driving-record requirements and be approved by management.
Complete all state-required training and certifications within mandated timeframes and demonstrate proficiency in required training areas.
Working knowledge of computers.
Submit to criminal background checks and be determined not disqualified by the Department of Human Services before working with individuals served.
Agree to Central Registry of Offenders Against Individuals with Developmental Disabilities and Child Abuse Registry Information (CARI) checks.
Submit to drug testing before employment if hired after June 15, 2018, and to random and for-cause or suspicion drug testing.
Cooperate with the licensee and Department of Human Services staff during inspections, inquiries, or investigations.

Nice To Haves

High school diploma or equivalent is preferred in the main qualifications section.
Six months of experience in human services is preferred.

Responsibilities

Provide direct support according to individual service or program plans, including support with socialization, behavioral development, personal care, housekeeping, recreation, transportation, community orientation, shopping, financial management, citizenship, and daily living activities.
Accurately document progress and activities, review records and logs for service-plan changes, and maintain confidentiality.
Make appropriate, cost-effective purchases within the individual’s budget and according to their choices and preferences.
Maintain professional relationships with individuals served, their friends and families, guardians, and case managers; greet visitors and follow Sevita Customer Service Standards.
Report alleged abuse or neglect and medical, behavioral, or other incidents according to applicable policies and requirements.
Respect individuals’ rights, maintain confidentiality, follow universal precautions, and support individuals in exercising their rights.
As needed, accompany individuals to medical appointments and relay information and orders to and from medical providers.
When assigned, administer medication or support self-administration, document medications and treatments, report errors promptly, and secure medications and supplies appropriately.
Monitor health, document concerns, communicate with a nurse or supervisor, call 911 in emergencies, and follow health care directives.
Follow procedures for medical equipment and report malfunction or disrepair.
Prepare or support preparation of meals according to planned menus, individual preferences, and special diets; monitor meals and follow dining plans.
Attend orientation, ongoing training, and monthly staff meetings; work scheduled hours, arrive on time, remain until a replacement arrives, and notify a supervisor when unable to work as scheduled.
Work cooperatively and respectfully with others and communicate openly.
Follow workplace safety policies, report hazards, and participate in safety training and activities.
Transport individuals when needed, drive safely and lawfully, use safety equipment properly, and promptly report accidents and safety concerns.
Perform daily and seasonal housekeeping and maintain a neat, clean, and safe environment.
Monitor environmental safety, perform minor repairs or yard maintenance when needed, report repairs, check water temperature when assisting with bathing, and participate in safety drills.
Perform other duties and activities as required.